Fantasy World - Chapter 4 (Creation: The Path of a God)

The cold air whipped through Valessandria's long wavy blonde hair -- flowing behind her as she urged her horse to move faster.

Valessandria's mind was jumbled with thoughts, grasping to understand what had happened. Her heart still felt a chill run through it long past when she learned that the Empire had made its move. It was madness, with the Overflow estimated to occur within the next few years.

Even with all the regional powers acting together and forming an alliance to stand up against the Overflow -- Valessandria felt her body shudder as the oceans of monsters submerging the continent in screams and rivers of blood flashed through her mind. With the Empire starting a conflict and attempting to continue its unjust expansion, the only logical conclusion was for them to embrace their death.

---

Valessandria remembered the dolls she played with when she was a child -- pretending that a prince on a white horse would take her and her family away to a bright future. How the older kids teased her about her appearance and how a prince would never choose to love someone as ugly as her.

That day, as the kids laughed at her, the sky began to bleed -- a crimson pool growing and blotting out the sun until the sunlight turned red as blood. The laughter of the kids was soon drowned by the screams of the nearby adults, who rushed to pick up their kids.

Never before had she seen so many adults running scared, tears beginning to well up as she looked for her parents.

Even to this day, the screams she heard that night haunted her dreams as she watched villagers be torn in half, devoured by the monsters that overrun the walls around her village. Bodies belonging to the children who had previously teased her were torn apart -- their dead eyes stared vacantly at her.

Valessanria felt her body lifted into the air by her mother, who desperately ran and avoided the eldritch horror hunting them.

Tears streamed down as she cried as she clamped her tiny hands over her ears, hoping to block out the awful noise made as the flesh of her neighbors was hungrily wolfed down by beasts she'd never seen before.

When they reached their home, her mother didn't bother knocking over dishes and books as she tossed aside furniture, revealing a secret door.

"Mommy, what's that?" Valessandria asked in confusion, unaware of such a thing existing until that day.

Not bothering to answer her, her mother ripped open the door to reveal a ladder that led down into the darkness. Turning to Valessandria, her mother lifted her and gently placed her inside.

Not knowing what was going on, Valessandria gripped the ladder before looking at her mother.

Despite the amount of time that had passed and the horrors she witnessed that day, Valessandria couldn't forget the tear-soaked face of her mother as she smiled and said, "My beautiful little girl, mommy will always love you. Remember to live a happy life and meet someone special. Mommy is so very sorry that she can’t come with you, but she will always be watching over her special girl.”

Valessandria couldn't have known that those words would be the last words her mother would speak to her as the door slowly closed, bathing Valessandria in darkness.

As Valessandria clung to the ladder, her mother's screams permeated through the darkness.

---

“Lady Knight! We will be approaching Leaf village in a matter of minutes!" A voice called out.

Valessandria shook her head -- pulled out from her dark memories.

Turning her head towards the voice, Valessandria recognized William, her second in the Disciplinary Committee at the Academy.

"With the forces gathered, many of them still students at the Academy, I don’t know how much help we can be aside from assisting in the evacuation!” William held up a hand as the wind muffled his words.

Clenching her fists around the reins, Valessandria yelled, “We can at least buy the village precious time to escape from the forces sent by the Empire! Why do we receive such training and benefits if not to lay down our lives for those unable to protect themselves?! Now stop talking unless you want to bite your tongue!”

Valessandria quickly looked back at her men before looking ahead to where villagers would be running for their lives to escape the merciless Empire.

Behind them, the rest of her forces followed. It wasn't difficult to notice that they all believed rushing towards Leaf Village was a suicide mission, with barely two hundred of them -- nearly all of them still in training at the Academy. Despite their doubts, they remained silent as Valessandria and William discussed the situation.

Valessandria cursed at how cowardly and indecisive the upper nobility was. When it was discovered that the Empire was invading the Kingdom without concern for the near-defenseless citizens, the nobles immediately began forming plans and strategies to ensure their own safety.

The apathy of the nobility was highlighted when intelligence determined that the invading forces were aiming for a decently populated village, Leaf Village. They selfishly ignored the reality that the villagers would be killed and enslaved to be taken back to the Empire.

Upon learning of the danger, Valessandria quickly convened a meeting of the Student Council and pleaded with the President to dispatch military aid -- even if it meant going against their doctrine of neutrality.

Valessandria knew that assisting Leaf Village could undermine their stance as a neutral power within the Kingdom and potentially destroy the place created for both commoners and nobles to join together for the purpose of removing divisive ideology.

Though the Academy was half the population of the Kingdom's capital, the various departments allowed them to be self-sufficient. Their self-sufficiency allowed them to provide practical experiences for the attending students -- which they could use to assist and improve their homes.

Knights that trained at the Academy were often some of the best in the Kingdom, even being able to join the King’s elite units. Seeing that the Academy wasn’t going to do anything, Valessandria gathered as many trainee knights as possible and dashed toward Leaf village. Regardless of how many enemy soldiers there were, she refused to abandon Leaf Village.

Valessandria's eyes flickered to dancing orange light off in the distance. At the entrance into Leaf Village was what could only be described as an inferno -- a horrific forest of flames lighting the night.

"Did the Empire reach the village already?!" Valessandria's heart sank, imagining the victims burning within the fiery sea. She turned her head and yelled over the thundering of the horses, "Pick up the pace! The Empire has reached the village! Forget about engaging them! We need to focus on evacuating the surviving villagers!"

Valessandria sensed the mood of her men, reflected by her own hopelessness about the situation. They were barely trained knights going against a force of trained soldiers several times their size.

But despite the despair and sadness felt, Valessandria knew that the villagers only had them to rely on. Inside her, battling the cold grief, a fire burned hot.

"All of you! Remember, we are knights of the Academy! Though the force we fight against is larger than us, they have no chance against us and our training!” Valessandria poured out as much passion as possible, hoping to ignite the flames of justice inside those that chose to follow her into the darkness of despair.

To help the villagers escape from the Empire forces, Valessandria guided her horse toward the entrance, away from the Empire's forces.

As they approached the village, Valessandria's eyes were drawn to something she had never heard about in the past. For a moment, the sight appeared to be a mountain, making her even more confused.

"What is that?" Willaim called out to her, pointing at the mysterious structure.

Though she was curious about the strange pyramid, Valessandria shook her head, "It is not our concern! We can deal with that after we escort the villagers away from this place!" She waved a hand to shut down such stray thoughts, especially as they approached an active conflict area.

Valessandria looked back at her men, "Forget about that thing. We need to focus on the villagers! The villagers are important, not that structure!"

Even though she was curious about how such a massive structure appeared overnight, at the moment, Valessandria had more concern about the horses.

Under her, the horse breathed heavily as it tried to maintain its current high speed. Valessandria rubbed the neck of the horse to encourage it. "Please. I know this is hard, but you have to keep going. The villagers are counting on us." Valessandia pleaded.

Even though the horses were bred with stamina in mind, their group had been racing through the day and the night to reach Leaf Village in time. Without assistance from the Student Council, they had been limited in the number of horses they could use.

Valessandria noticed a train of wagons and people flowing out of the village like a stream. Seeing that there were survivors, she sighed in relief. She imagined that people were still desperately trying to escape from the village. Still, the fact that so many fled was a blessing.

There were dozens of guards on both sides of the line, directing people and keeping the peace. A few were even assisting wagons that got stuck on the road. It was likely due to the drivers panicking as they navigated the road.

Next to her, William raised a hand to let the others know to slow down. With the inherent chaos of the situation, it wouldn't be strange for the guards to assume that they were from the Empire and attack them.

One of the guards looked towards their group, moving his spear to prepare himself for the attack. A few villagers began screaming and ready to flee from the safety of the others.

To prevent any conflicts, Valessandria quickly dismounted, raised both hands to show that she wasn't armed, and let the guards know that her force wasn't hostile.

Immediately, a look of relief passed through the villagers while the guards lowered their suspicion slightly. The spears were no longer directly pointing at their group. However, the nearby guards still had the weapons in their hands in such a way that they could immediately switch if combat was necessary.

Slowly approaching the nearest guard, Valessandria raised the visor on her helmet. “I am Valessandria, Lady Knight of Illumin Academic City. I have gathered my men to assist in the evacuation of the village. So that the most lives can be saved, if possible, I would like a report of the current situation."

Seeing her face, the expression on the guards changed from apprehension to joy at having people come and provide reinforcements. A few guards began raising their hands in the air as they cheered.

The nearest guard removed his helmet. His face was covered in dirt and soot, likely due to helping the villagers to get out safely.

Bowing his head slightly, the guard explained, "Ma’am, we've successfully evacuated about a quarter of the village population." Then he turned his head slightly as though checking his surroundings before lowering his voice, "There are many businesses located here, and the various owners are keen on bringing along as many of their wares as possible. This has made us reallocate precious resources, such as our men, to help them.”

The guard's brows were lowered, and as he took a deep breath, there was a sense of hopelessness and shame for allowing himself to get bullied by the business owners.

Valessandria understood the guard's position, considering villages, the larger they became, were heavily reliant on business owners. They were the machine that allowed goods to flow inwards -- providing the population with goods and jobs.

“What about that attack by the Empire forces? How many casualties were there?” Valessandria asked the guard, looking at the villagers to estimate how much damage was caused.

“I don’t know about such attacks. Aside from the unusual information, I'm constantly getting conflicting reports about the enemy forces. None of the people I’ve sent to confirm these reports have returned.” His cheeks reddened as he looked down at the ground.

Finding out how poor of a job they were doing, Valessandria felt her blood begin to boil. Clenching her fists, she yelled, "How could you not know about that?! We saw a sea of fire in front of the village as we were coming here!” Pointing in the direction of the other entrance into Leaf Village.

Turning to William, Valessandria ordered, “While I check on the status of that attack, I want you to begin assisting the villagers and getting them out of here." Looking at William directly into his eyes, she emphasized, "Do not, under no circumstance, support those foolish merchants! We are not here to help them save their inventory!”

William placed a fist on his chest, accepting his orders.

Knowing that the situation was in better hands, Valessandria slammed down her visor and quickly jumped back on her horse. She needed to head to where the attacks were seen. Hearing that the guard was getting strange information made her wonder what else could be happening.

Flashing in her mind was the eldritch pyramid. The size was beyond anything she could comprehend, defying conventional logic.

Valessandria urged her horse into a gallop and raced toward the entrance.

Flying past the stream of survivors, she noticed a few business owners yelling at guards. At the same time, their bodyguards ensured that no one stole from them. Seeing such greed only reminded her of the nobles in Illumin.

In front of her, the guards at the entrance moved out of the way while yelling at villagers to not block the path.

"They must have been alerted that I am here to help," Valessandria thought.

Racing through the entrance, Valessandria checked the village itself. With the number of people still in the streets and trying to flee, it was clear that the guard was right about how many were evacuated.

But it wasn't long until Valessandria sensed that something was wrong. She turned her head back and forth, seeing the screaming villagers and chaos, but the more she saw, the more the feeling that not everything added up grew inside her.

There was an unsettling feeling inside her chest that couldn't be pinned down.

Without slowing down, Valessandria looked at the villagers, then at the items each of the villagers carried. Finally, she looked at the buildings that flew by.

The buildings didn't seem out of place, being the typical style found inside villages. Compared to villagers on the fringe, the appearance was superior.

Valessandria's eyes opened wide in alarm, matching things together and figuring out what was bothering her.

Despite the chaos and the presence of invading military forces, Valessandria didn't notice any buildings that were severely damaged. The fact that the buildings appeared normal, with only a few that had caught fire -- likely due to negligence as they frantically escaped.

But now that Valessandria realized what was wrong while she raced through the village, a sinking feeling in her stomach began to grow.

Shaking her head, she reminded herself that helping the people out took precedence.

There was the occasional smell of smoke that wafted through her helmet. As Valessandria navigated

The only problem was that she didn’t see any damage done to the buildings. With the intensity of those spells, she would have thought that some of the houses would be on fire. Nothing was adding up, and this made her nervous.

As she approached the other entrance, where the Empire's forces would be coming to Leaf Village, Valessandria's eyes were drawn toward the towering structure that rose out of the grown as though the darkened figure of an eldritch giant sitting on the floor.

Valessandria felt a shiver run down her spine.

The closer she approached the entrance, the villagers slowly started to become scarce.

Without the need to be concerned about trampling people beneath her horse's hooves, Valessandria increased her horse's pace toward the thing that was entirely out of place. But as she rushed towards the other entrance, a sense of dread slowly crept up her body.

Valessandria even had to urge her horse several times to pick up the pace, the animal slowly down and fighting the years of training placed on it.

"What is wrong?" Valessandria asked the horse, confused by the behavior.

The horse snorted and whined, shaking its head. Added on top was how it began to slow down, resisting its rider's commands.

If it were any other time, Valessanria would've felt annoyance and anger towards the horse during such a precarious scenario. Still, even she dreaded going to see what was happening ahead of them.

"It is okay," Valessandria gently stroked the neck of the horse.

Taking a deep breath, Valessandria understood there was no point in forcing the horse to move forward. The animal may have been trained at the Academy, but there were still the natural instincts deep within its mind.

With what existed in the air, no animals would likely approach the village's entrance.

Getting off the horse, Valessandria touched her side where her sheathed sword was attached. Feeling the hilt, a sense of calm and reassurance was felt.

Valessandria took a moment to look around at the village. Around her, the houses were still standing and barely touched. This was on top of the lack of people. It felt as though it were a ghost village, the type you hear about where all the residents pass away due to an unknown illness killing everything like wildfire -- leaving only the memories of what existed behind.

Continuing to have a hand on her weapon, Valessandria took another deep breath. Part of her wanted to remove her helmet, to remove some of the constrictive feelings, but she knew that it would be foolish. But despite her training, there was a sense that there was nothing left that could threaten her.

Even as she strained to hear anything, not even the wind blew, the night silent and haunting.

The sound of wheels and the growls of a monster made Valessandria jerk toward the sound. Her hand nearly ripped the sword out of its scabbard -- only stopped by her professional demeanor.

"Who goes there?!" Valessandria yelled towards the carriage that seemed to materialize out of the night, only a few lanterns from nearby buildings offering any illumination.

Valessandria paused at the sight of the monster, possibly a dragon, pulling the carriage. Due to the size of it, she didn't notice the woman that sat in the driver's seat and holding the reins.

The woman had blue shoulder-length hair and golden eyes that seemed to glow, piercing into her body. The woman's gaze gave the sense that she was able to see through all things, an unpleasant sensation that put Valessandria on guard.

"I ask again! Who are you, and state your business! I am Valessandria, Lady Knight of the free nation of Illumin Academic City!" Valessandria called out again.

For some reason, her training told Valessandria that she should run away immediately. Her hand that gripped the hilt of her sword trembled slightly.

The driver merely stared at Valessandria as though she weren't worth the energy to pay attention to her. It starkly contrasted with the dragon monster that looked at her hungrily as though Valessandria were a late-night snack.

Gritting her teeth, Valessandria pulled from deep inside of herself every ounce of courage she could muster.

As though sensing that Valessandria was at her limits, the door to the carriage opened silently.

Compared to the eerie atmosphere around them, what wasn't expected to emerge out of the carriage was a beautiful woman with long red hair in an outfit that would put any noble to shame despite the appearance of a courtesan. The way she moved made the word graceful insufficient to describe her movements.

It wouldn't be strange if the woman made all noble women jealous as their husbands stared lustfully at her gorgeous body that oozed with lustful energy.

Before Valessandria could wonder if the woman was a noble, the woman stood to the side and kept the door open as though she were a simple maid. Her eyes widened in alarm, throwing her thoughts about in confusion.

"Who is the employer of this woman?" Valessandria couldn't imagine anyone worthy enough to afford such a woman.

Stepping out of the carriage, the light from the nearby lanterns and the moonlight made the next woman's skin glow due to how pale it was. Compared to the first woman, this one made the hair on Valessandria's body stand straight from fear. It was as if Valessandria were looking at Death's mistress.

Leather covered much of the pale woman's voluptuous body, a whip attached to her side.

The next woman only made Valessandria's mouth drop in awe. Compared to the first two women, she wondered if her eyes had failed her to think the other two were beautiful.

Long black hair flowed down her back like a peaceful stream, slightly moving due to her aethereal movement. Suppose women worldwide had a Queen to worship. In that case, Valessandria couldn't help but admit that she would be one of the first to swear allegiance. Her heart beat faster as her face became hot under her helm.

Valessandria imagined that it wouldn't be strange for her to drop to her knees if things were different.

Slowly, Valessandria's eyes climbed the woman's body. If someone had told her that the woman was carved directly from the hands of the gods, she wouldn't doubt it in the least.

Each woman looked at Valessandria with boredom as though annoyed by the interruption.

Seeing their expressions made Valessandria's heart drop as though she had let women of such nobility down. If not for the unusual dread she also felt and her duties, Valessandria could imagine that she would've begged them for forgiveness.

Managing to pull herself together and not be drawn to the women, who seemed like succubus with how they pulled at her thoughts, Valessandria took a deep breath before she ordered, "Identify yourselves!"

Slowly the fog that had grown in her mind began to fade as she started to put things together.

Valessandria's eyes went back to the carriage. She noticed how well-designed it was, the material far better than what anyone she knew would use. Even nobles would have a difficult time commissioning someone to build such an expensive vehicle. Such a carriage came from the entrance where the Empire was approaching the Kingdom on a night that a strange structure appeared.

This was on top of the likely noble ladies that emerged.

As Valessandria tried to piece everything together, a leg emerged from the carriage to indicate another passenger.

Valessandria's eyebrows raised, seeing the three women bow to the person. Just from the leg, she could determine that the outfit was designed for a man.

As the man stepped out of the carriage, revealing himself, Valessandria felt even more confused. Aside from the outfit, which was more elaborate compared to what the women wore, the man's face and build were average. She didn't recognize anything about him that would indicate how women of such pedigree would acknowledge him as their social superior.

The man had medium lengthed brown hair with brown eyes, though his facial features were foreign. Valessandria tried to think of any nations that had similar people but failed.

But the fact that such a man with such a plain facial appearance was accompanied by elite women made Valessandria cautious.

"Who are you, and where did you come from?!" Valessandria raised her voice.

The woman with the sheer fabric and lewder outfit compared to the other women frowned at Valessandria's tone. If looks were able to kill, she'd have been incinerated immediately where she stood. Feeling the killing intent, her brow became wet with sweat.

Instead of answering her, the man raised a hand like some dog trainer commanding his pet to stand down.

The man smiled at Valessandria.

As though someone had walked over her grave, Valessandria shivered. Though the smile was childish, the man's eyes looked far older than he appeared.

Valessandria raised her guard, no longer thinking the man was some simple noble accompanied by beautiful women.

He bowed slightly, "You may address me as Yi. These women are employed by me."

Hearing the man's name, Valessandria was further convinced that the man wasn't from the Kingdom. The name Yi wasn't one she had heard before. But, at the same time, she hadn't heard of anyone else called by such a name in any of the nearby nations. If it was a family name, it was one that no one on the continent on this side of the desert would've heard before.

This made Valessandria feel a little calm, though it raised more flags in her mind. It was enough for her to not raise her visor -- though she had a sense that her armor would offer protection from any of the mysterious people, let alone the monster.

"What business do you have here?" Valessandria asked.

The man may not be part of the Empire, but it didn't mean he had any legitimate business in the Kingdom.

"I am sure you, like the villagers, are concerned about the invasion force," Yi continued showing an unsettling smile. "But you have no need to concern yourself about such matters. They have been dealt with."

"His eyes and that smile," Valessandria didn't enjoy how the man made her feel, like some child that had stepped into something far beyond her comprehension. "What does he mean about no longer needing to worry about the Empire's forces?"

The man calmly stood there as though waiting for something. Then as if remembering, he asked, "You mentioned something about an Academic City?"

Valessandria tried to ignore the feeling that she was a rodent being played by a cat, only alive due to keeping the interest predator's interest.

“Wait!" Valessanria attempted to gain some control of the conversation. Things felt too much like she was dancing on the man's palm. "What do you mean I don’t need to worry about the soldiers? Where did they go? Did they change directions and head to another town or village?!” Her voice raised slightly in pitch.

After the last question and what she knew about the Empire and Leaf village, Valessandria started to hope that the Empire had changed targets to some other nearby village.

The chances that the Empire would change targets at the last moment wasn't something she believed, even for a second. Compared to other villages, Leaf Village was a significantly large one that had a steady stream of merchants. It was even possible that after some time had passed, the village would be upgraded to a town or a small city.

Leaf Village may not necessarily have the resources to defend against the Overflow. Still, Valessandria imagined that it had a higher chance of survival than those nearby.

The implication that the soldiers changed their minds was beginning to be preferable compared to what she sensed was the case. Valessandria's eyes were again drawn to the pyramid looming over her as though hiding the truth of what had occurred, deeming her unworthy of knowing.

Valessandria's mouth went dry upon reaching her own conclusion, not wanting to even consider the idea due to how horrific it would be to give them form. The thoughts were like the incomprehensible depths of a massive ocean, hiding nightmarish knowable beings waiting to be invited into their world. Locking them inside her mind without acknowledging them was best for the moment.

"I assume you will need to verify the situation yourself. And after you gain something akin to an answer to your question, I imagine you will need more responses for the additional questions that will undoubtedly emerge from deep within your subconscious." Yi's eyes pierced into her soul as though already aware of the growing tendrils of fear slowly branching throughout her mind.

Talking to the young noble made Valessandria feel as though she stood at the edge of a cliff, the waves below crashing against the rocks and waiting to embrace her into their frigid depths. At any moment, the edge could crumble, and she'd fall into the inky void.

"It has been quite a journey for me. After you find your answers and desire more clarity, I will be resting in the nearby inn. Ask the woman at the counter, and I assume someone will lead you to my quarters." The man slightly tilted his head, apathetic towards the idea of being dismissed by her.

Turning back towards the carriage, Yi casually entered without bothering to look at her as though already knowing they would meet again before the night was over.

The three other women followed after their employer, only the last woman with red should-length hair turning her head to look at Valessandria. The glare given by the woman was all the warning Valessandria needed, fully aware of what would happen if she were to cross the young noble.

Valessandria watched as the driver motioned the monster to move, using the reins in her hands. The beast looked at Valessandria once before it snorted and began moving forward.

Without a creak or sound other than the wheels crunching the dirt below, the carriage moved with eldritch grace.

Staring at the carriage as it passed, Valessandria couldn't understand how such a vehicle could exist. Now that she was closer, the level of phenomenal craftsmanship was astounding to behold. Not even the Student Council President rode around in a carriage of such quality.

Valessandria stood as she watched the carriage make its way deeper into the abandoned-looking village. As the carriage moved away from where she stood, eventually, it was swallowed up by the darkness of the night. With how the moonlight bounced off of it, there was a mystical feel. It was a sense that such a thing didn't belong in the world.

Turning back towards the entrance, the pyramid still blocked the sky with its large size.

"Before I head back to alert the others, I will need to confirm what that young noble said," Valessandria sighed. She looked at her horse, "Are you going to cooperate?"

The horse snorted and approached Valessandria as though apologizing for its earlier behavior.

Laughing, "I am glad that you are joining me again." Looking at the pyramid, "I do not look forward to having to walk around that massive structure."

Getting back on the horse, Valessandria signaled it to move forward. Giving the signal for a trot, she then moved to let the horse know to go into a cantor. Compared to when they first entered the village, she decided not to have her horse go into a full gallop.

Even though she had only recently met the noble, a part of her sensed that lying was unnecessary for that man. But even with the word of such a man, Valessandria felt it was her duty to see things through. The worst thing she could do was to give the all-clear signal and have the villagers return just as the Empire soldiers poured through the entrance.

As she approached the gate, Valessandria looked around to see if any village guards were stationed.

"No one," Valessandria was shocked to see that the village was defenseless.

Even if the village had no hope of defeating the Empire soldiers, there should've still been guards manning the wall.

It was then that Valessandria remembered what the guard had told her about how none of the men sent to report the situation had returned.

"Is it as simple as people abandoning their duties?" Valessandria tried to think about what could've happened to the missing guards.

The fact that so many guards were still around to direct villagers and help people with their items, knowing danger was approaching them, made Valessandra doubt that the guards would've just fled to save themselves. Though it was possible, the evidence she saw with how dirty the guards' faces were made her think otherwise.

The face of the young noble flashed through her mind before being quickly dismissed. Though the man gave Valessandria pause and a sense of dread, she didn't want to consider the possibility. On top of that, there was no reason for the noble to have a part in the disappearance of the guards.

With the guards missing, the gate was wide open, no longer protecting against the monsters that stalked the night -- let alone the Empire forces.

Seeing the door open and unguarded provided another thought which bothered her.

"If the gate was open this entire time, then where are the monsters?" Valessandria slowly scanned the surroundings as she made her way through the entrance.

The grassy fields glimmered under the moonlight, a romantic sight if it were any other time. The night air was cool and refreshing now that she was out of the village. However, it was tainted by the strange offputting atmosphere -- like something supernatural had occurred recently.

Valessandria tried to dismiss the eerie sensation as though something was just out of sight -- seen in the corner of her eyes.

Looking ahead, Valessandria saw the pyramid in the middle of what used to be the main road leading to the village. Now that it was no longer obstructed by the wall protecting Leaf Village, she had an even more difficult time grasping how such a thing could exist overnight.

Let alone the road, the structure covered much of the grassy field. By visual estimation, Valessandria was convinced that it was materially larger than Leaf Village.

Instead of the road leading to the village, it now felt as though it was designed to direct travelers to the pyramid. When the road met the structure, Valessandria could see stairs lit up by roaring flames that burned hot, even with how far away she was from it.

As her horse cantered towards the pyramid, the size seemed to grow and blocked most of her vision.

Valessandria could now see statues on the surreal pyramid.

All over the surface of the pyramid were statues of women of various races holding weapons and wearing armor in numerous poses. Even more enormous statues existed on either side of the staircase, which led to the top of it.

Each of the larger statues gave the impression of personal guards for some diety, while the smaller ones were his armies.

"Is this dedicated to some eldritch deity of war or chaos?" Valessandria stared at the statues and the structure itself -- as though she were being pulled toward it.

Soon, Valessandria could see the stones used to build the statues and how they appeared weathered and ancient, as though the pyramid had existed in that spot for thousands of years before civilization existed. But she knew the pyramid hadn't been in front of Leaf Village before tonight.

Guiding the horse, Valessandria began to go around the pyramid beneath the gaze of hundreds of female warriors -- making it feel as though she weren't welcomed in the presence of their god.

The more she looked at the statues, the more they reminded Valessandria of the women from earlier with their ethereal alien beauty. Just like how the pyramid didn't seem to belong in their world, those women also had a presence that was foreign to this reality.

Valessandria fought to ignore the dread she felt.

"All that is important is finding out what happened and if the Empire is on its way to Leaf Village," Valessandria fell back on her training and focused her mind.

Due to how massive the pyramid was, it took quite some time. Wanting to save time, there were moments she wanted the horse to go into a gallop. Still, Valessandria was concerned for her horse that had spent the entire time helping her to reach Leaf Village before anything else happened.

As she rounded the corner of the structure, Valessandria was confused by what she saw.

"Where are the Empire forces? Did they really go to another target?" Valessandria wanted to shout -- frustrated by the night she had experienced.

They had rushed over from Illumin to Leaf Village, only to discover that the threat they feared didn't exist.

The night felt like an onion; after each layer was peeled, there was another mystery beneath it -- mocking her.

The problem was how the villagers had fled; even the guards talked about the Empire heading towards them, justifying the evacuation. This was on top of the merchants and business owners willing to abandon their property that couldn't fit on a wagon.

Even if the villagers would behave in an irrational manner, running away from a threat that didn't exist, Valessandria knew that this wouldn't be the case with those connected to money. Such individuals would abandon their parents if a profit could be found. The chance that they would flee from shadows wasn't a possibility.

The more she thought about the problem, a voice whispered into her ears, "And after you gain something akin to an answer to your question, I imagine you will need more responses for the additional questions that will undoubtedly emerge from deep within your subconscious."

Valessandria remembered the chilling eldritch unworldly smile of the young noble.

---

Han stretched out his arms, stepping out of the carriage.

"Thank you for your hard work, Master," Brittany bowed as she held open the door.

Compared to the first time he stepped out of the carriage when arriving at Leaf Village, the night was silent due to many having fled due to the Empire soldiers being spotted. There wasn't any of the chaos he'd seen before he'd left to greet the soldiers.

He felt as though he'd come back home after going to the movie with friends. Patting himself on his stomach, Han still felt full from all the food he had eaten.

"Master, it is getting quite late. Would you like to head to bed?" Helania suggested, following behind Han.

Hearing the suggestion of sleep made his ears perk up.

"That sounds like a wonderful idea. With how busy we have been today, the idea of laying on a soft bed with the three of you sounds quite appealing." Han grinned at the idea.

He had always enjoyed sleep, and cuddling with his precious creations would be even better.

Walking through the entrance of the inn, Han noticed that the mood had calmed down by quite an amount. There wasn't the sound of the staff rushing about or people having intense arguments in the dining area.

Han noticed that the same older woman was waiting behind the counter, as though everything was usual, though slightly more disheveled than before things erupted into chaos.

"Welcome back, My Lord," The woman bowed in greeting. "I am glad to see that you are safe. I have been waiting, nervous about your safety."

Appreciating the woman's dedication to her duties, Han said, "I believe it will be announced soon that all is well." He then made his way toward the stairs. Turning his head slightly, he added, "There may be a woman in armor from Illumin searching for me. Lead her to my room since I have business with her."

The woman's eyes widened slightly, her mouth opening and closing like a fish as though she struggled to articulate her thoughts.

Not wanting to argue with a noble, the woman closed her mouth and bowed, "As you wish, My Lord. I will look for the woman closely and direct her to your room immediately."

Brittany and Queen walked by the woman, not bothering to acknowledge the worker as they followed Han.

---

Helania stood in front of the counter.

When the woman raised her head, her eyes widened before she composed herself.

"My Master would like to reward you for the work you have done, going above and beyond," Helania admitted that she also shared her Master's thoughts on the woman.

Her Master's smile and expression indicated his interest in the human. Seeing this as an opportunity, she decided to take it upon herself to do something that would give the human a positive impression of her Master.

Reaching into her coat, Helania pulled out a small black velvet box.

The woman was speechless, seeing the container.

Based on her understanding of the world they existed, Helania knew that velvet wasn't something that was used to cover packaging on top of it being easily recognizable. Considering the types of clients visiting the inn, she suspected that the worker would've seen velvet before and know what it was and its significance.

Placing the box on the table, Helania smiled, "I believe you will find this to be more than enough to compensate you for what you had to experience."

The worker looked at Helania before directing her gaze to the black box. She quickly returned to looking at Helania before saying, "My Lady, I have done nothing to deserve such a priceless item. I am a simple worker."

Helania noticed how the woman's chest began rising faster; clearly, adrenaline coursing throughout her body.

"My Master is generous with those he feels have performed above and beyond their duty. Do not feel burdened and instead think of it as an opportunity." Helania smiled.

The woman brushed back her blonde hair, using it to give herself time to think.

As Helania watched the woman, she also began to asses her, paying attention to her mannerisms -- even the way the woman's eyes behaved upon seeing the item. The way the woman's face slowly reddened was also noted.

"I can see why Master was interested in this woman," Helania approvingly thought.

The woman was indeed attractive, likely the reason why she was assigned to greet clients as they entered the inn, but also her attentiveness to her social position. During the entire time, Helania didn't notice any hints of greed -- an indication of the human thinking of taking advantage of her Master.

Regardless of how her Master felt, if Helania had detected any undesirable traits from the human, she would've discreetly had her removed.

The worker delicately picked up the box and carefully opened it.

Her hands began to tremble upon seeing the contents inside. The worker turned the box to Helania, "My Lady! Please, this is unreasonable!"

Helania looked at the necklace, which had an ethereal design carved into its surface of a star and a moon. Even with the interior lighting, the symbols had a faint glow as though they had energy contained inside.

The attached chain was made from a metal unique to the Stronghold, light but nearly indestructible.

"Put it on," Helania motioned with a hand.

Seeing that Helania wasn't going to listen to her pleas, the woman's shaking hands picked up the jewelry. The chain flowed along the back of the woman's hand as though the metal were liquid.

"Come over here," Helania gently directed the woman.

Nodding obediently, the woman carefully walked around the counter with the jewelry in hand. It was as though she were terrified of dropping it on the ground.

The jewelry glimmered under the nearby light as though absorbing it. Around them, the lobby of the inn felt drab and slightly less colorful in the presence of the unique item. It was as if reality itself bowed before the necklace, acknowledging the beauty the object possessed.

When the woman reached her, Helania held out a hand.

Seeing the hand, the woman gratefully returned the jewelry. She let out a long sigh of relief as though a nightmare had passed and she was freed from a burden.

"Turn around," Helania said.

Panic returned in the woman's eyes as her head jerked to look at Helania.

Wordlessly, Helania used her other hand and drew a circle with her index finger as she smiled at the woman.

The woman's eyes looked at Helania and then turned around slowly as though she were merely a puppet, powerless to resist the order given.

"Raise your hair," Helania ordered.

This time, the woman didn't fight Helania and simply obeyed.

---

Bethany thought back to when she first saw the young noble as he entered the inn with his large entourage. Initially, she didn't pay much attention to the young noble, considering the inn was used to having wealthy clients as guests. This was even more the case with having a large group that accompanied them.

Nobles didn't just bring a large group just to show off their wealth and status, but it was also to help them prepare things, to free up time for the noble to handle matters that they were expected to manage. There was also the need for security since bandits and other hostile elements existed.

A noble that didn't have security was one that wouldn't remain alive for long.

What did make Bethany pay special attention to the young noble was how his entourage was such a severe contrast.

With her training, Bethany was able to spot people who could be trouble for the business. So the village lady was one that immediately caught Bethany's attention.

Bethany had no qualms about villagers renting a room for the night. The issue was how a villager was unlikely to be able to afford the premium rates set by the owner. And usually, seeing a village woman enter the inn would make her fear the worst.

In her mind, Bethany thought back to village women that attracted the attention of nobles and were never heard from again, any rumors efficiently removed with their authority.

If it were any other night, seeing the village woman, the thought that she was someone forcibly taken by the noble would come to mind. But such ideas were immediately dismissed.

The idea that the village woman was captured by the young noble was ludicrous when seeing the women that accompanied him. Not including the merchant's family, who she recognized from prior interactions with him when he arrived at Leaf Village, there were three other women who didn't even appear to be at the same level as the nobles Bethany had seen enter Leaf Village.

Bethany had heard rumors that nobles in the capital were superior in appearance. Still, even with that in mind, she struggled to believe that the three women were from any nation known to her.

The way they moved with assurance, grace, and ethereal beauty made her hold Bethany hold her breath.

What made Bethany proud of herself was how she was able to maintain her composure, not gawking at the women. She had been working at the inn for quite some time and would uphold the reputation.

The noble had then surprised her even more after gifting her more gold than she'd ever seen in her lifetime in one place. Seeing such wealth casually displayed made her face heat up. She shyly looked at the noble, unsure what to think of his generosity. This was on top of the way his eyes slowly looked up and down her body, making it feel as though he were caressing her with his gaze.

Bethany may not have believed she was beautiful, as what nobles dealt with, but she did grasp that she was considered attractive. This was supported by how many men tried to court her for marriage.

Though marriage had always been on her mind since she was starting to get older, Bethany had some reservations about settling down and raising a family. Bethany understood that, eventually, her beauty would begin to wane, and marriage offers would inevitably dry up. The problem was how she felt that many suitors were only interested in her appearance and not what she could offer as a wife. It was why she had declined all the offers presented to her.

But as Bethany felt the noble's hot gaze, she couldn't help but feel her body respond to the stimulation.

The noble wasn't anything extraordinary regarding his appearance, which seemed average even for commoners.

Bethany met the eyes of the noble.

Slowly the world faded around her as she was drawn into the infinite pools. Bethany felt herself floating through a void, the clothes on her body spilling off of her body, exposing her to a deep emptiness.

She regained her mental faculties as quickly as she was transported into the emptiness. She blinked to recover herself.

Bethany directed Susie to guide the noble and his entourage.

After taking care of the noble, she returned to her other duties, coordinating with the managers about the incoming guests and making sure that the baths were properly functioning. Their establishment was known for its premium bathing facilities, and why many often selected them when searching for a place to rest after a long journey.

The day quickly passed as she greeted more guests and handled their check-in. But soon, things began to turn down a strange path.

It started with a few people running past the door to their inn.

Since Bethany was responsible for handling guests, she would ensure that she noticed any movement in front of the inn. Often it would be a carriage that stopped in front.

Initially, Bethany assumed that a store had sent workers to handle a matter quickly. What made it strange and unusual was how a growing number of people were running past, and shouting could be heard through the door.

"Miss," A voice called out to her.

Turning her head, Bethany noticed that it was one of the maids. The maid's eyebrows were raised as she approached slowly, as though not wanting to attract any attention.

"What is the matter?" Alarm bells rang in Bethany's mind as she quickly ran through numerous scenarios to try and anticipate what could be the issue.

Numerous merchants had been checked in, raising concerns that one of the staff had failed to provide adequate customer service, and now the guest was angry.

"We've heard talk that the Lunar Empire is invading the Kingdom," The maid's eyes were wide as the words tumbled over themselves.

"What?" Bethany couldn't believe what the maid said, thinking she had misheard.

The maid looked around before saying to Bethany, "One of the maids knows someone who is part of the guards and was told that she should pack everything and flee before the Empire arrives." The maid lowered her voice. "I don't know what I should do." Her hands were together and moved as though washing them while a frown formed.

Hearing that the Empire was invading made Bethany's heart beat faster. She had heard that the Empire and the kingdom would often have skirmishes along the border, but nothing on the level of an invasion.

Leaf Village was relatively large, having a significantly larger wall to protect against monsters entering the village. Still, it wouldn't hold up long against an organized military force.

"You need to stay calm," Bethany told herself.

As one of the senior workers at the inn, she knew that others would look to her for guidance. It was critical for her to keep her wits about her so as not to cause panic among the workers and guests.

Bethany took a moment to think about what they needed to do. She turned her head to look out the door and watch the number of people on the street grow from what it was.

On top of the chaos, a sense of dread began thickening in the air as villagers pushed each other and merchants used their bodyguards as battering rams.

Though Bethany had the desire to run, for some reason, there was a growing sense of security that stemmed out of a void of nothingness, irrational and unjustifiable. With this feeling of comfort that she couldn't explain, Bethany told the maid, "I know that things are getting chaotic, but being inside will be safer."

The maid's eyes slowly widened as she listened to Bethany's words -- which flowed against common sense. She glanced towards where the villagers rushed past the inn like a violent rapid of mindless fear and panic.

"I know. It looks bad." Bethany gently took the maid's hands in her own, hoping that her strange feelings would transfer to the woman. "Out there is more dangerous than it is inside here. Even if we needed to run, the odds we escape Leaf Village without getting injured are low. I do not plan on stopping you if you want to flee. But at least wait until things become safer." Bethany looked into the maid's eyes. She wanted to see if the maid understood the situation clearly without falling into blind emotions.

Jerkily, the maid nodded. "Thank you, miss. I'm just so scared." Her body began to shiver in fright.

Bethany pulled the woman close and gave her a gentle hug.

"Things will be fine," Bethany whispered into the maid's ear.

The maid nodded into Bethany's shoulders.

Bethany felt warmth from the tears from the maid. Feeling how afraid the woman was, Bethany hoped that her feelings weren't fanciful and based on something real.

Sensing that the maid had recovered enough, Bethany let her go.

A wet trail of tears and red eyes was revealed on the woman's face. But compared to before, her body stood straighter and trembled less. The maid's face reddened, and she used her apron to wipe away the tears, "I'm sorry, miss." She chuckled, "I'll get back to work. Thank you."

Bethany nodded, "Tell the others what I said. No one is under any obligation to stay, so if you feel the need to handle your affairs, then go. When things pass, all of you are more than welcome to return."

The maid smiled and bowed to Bethany before heading back to her station, likely to tell the others what was discussed.

Bethany sighed, running a hand through her hair. It was an act that would've been unthinkable for her, but the action helped to reassure her own emotions about what was happening.

Returning to her station, Bethany turned her head to look at the stairs that led up to the top floor, where the young noble was staying. She thought about sending one of the maids to inform the noble of the situation.

"I suspect he already knows what is happening, considering his driver is likely outside, parked next to the other carriages. The driver would see the villagers stampeding past the inn and rush in to tell their master." Despite everything pointing to the contrary, Bethany wondered why she didn't feel as worried.

Footsteps coming down the stairs made Bethany's heart beat slightly faster, making her look to see who it was. But the feeling evaporated when she found out that it was several merchants and their families. Mentally sighing, she tried to listen to what they were talking about.

"What are we going to do?" One of the merchants with blonde hair asked another merchant who was older than him.

"We can't do anything at the moment. There are too many panicking people out there." He answered. Pausing, he then said, "Send out the boys to make sure our wagons and inventory are safe. The moment things clear up, we'll leave."

The blonde merchant shadily looked around, "What about the others?" He said in a hushed voice. "I mean, we've already betrayed Tom and his family."

"Keep your voice down!" The older merchant hissed, glancing around.

Bethany was thankful for the portable partition between the main lobby area and the hallway that led to the dining area and first-level rooms.

The merchants knew Bethany was stationed behind the counter, but they likely didn't think she was experienced enough to listen in on conversations without alerting the guest. It was something she trained herself to be able to accomplish -- to better serve those that entered the inn. Another benefit was how she could learn what happened outside of Leaf Village.

Bethany thought back to a few times when she was able to advise guests on what routes were safe and which were crawling with bandits or monsters.

The owner would often congratulate Bethany on how she was able to continue to draw in repeating guests just because of her professional mindset and keeping the guest a priority.

"The fact that Lunar Empire soldiers disguised as bandits and the Empire invading Leaf Village isn't a coincidence..." The older merchant continued to talk with the other merchants in a low voice.

Bethany's eyes widened in alarm, finding out that the invasion wasn't the only thing the Empire had participated in within the Kingdom's borders. Taking a deep breath to contain the whirlwind of thoughts, she tried to put everything together.

As she stood there, the family of merchants flashed through her mind like a bolt of lightning.

Bethany closed her slightly gaping mouth once she put things together.

Closing her eyes, Bethany searched through the day's memories back to when the young noble entered with his entourage. Words echoed and faded in the fog of what she remembered.

Though the young lord never said the name of the merchant in his entourage, Bethany felt like something was off the more she thought about it.

From her experience, merchants would travel with other merchants or with guards to protect them, and sometimes their families as well, while they traveled between locations. But merchants never traveled with the nobility outside of unusual circumstances.

Now, Bethany overheard how the group of merchants had betrayed one of their own, attacked by soldiers disguised as bandits, and hours before a merchant arrived alongside a noble.

Additionally, this all occurred on the same day that the Lunar Empire invaded the Kingdom.

Bethany gently chewed on her lower lip as she mulled over all the information, despite how unusual they were. Deep down, she felt there were events slowly coming together, orchestrated by something beyond her comprehension -- an unknowable force.

A shiver traveled through her body, remembering the penetrating eldritch eyes of the young noble. Her body reacted to the memories of his eyes in ways that she'd never experienced before as a woman.

Placing a hand on the counter, Bethany tried to catch her breath.

Her breath was hot, and the world felt alive in a strange way.

Bethany took a quick moment to turn her head back and forth, scanning the lobby, worried about anyone seeing how she behaved.

As though in a trance, unable to resist the earthly desires of her body any longer, Bethany raised her free hand to slowly grope her breasts, using her index finger to tease her hard and sensitive nipples. Immediately, there was a jolt that ran through her body, and she let out a quiet moan overflowing with the pleasure she felt.

Realizing the sound that emerged, Bethany quickly covered her mouth, her face hot.

Turning her head again, Bethany leaned to check one side of the partition down the hallway. She felt a wave of relief to only see the green and gold embroidered carpet leading deeper into the inn, the artwork displayed on the walls to make it appear prestigious, and the soft light from the lamps illuminating the interior in a friendly and soothing glow.

Bethany strained her ears, happy that there were no sounds from the diverging hallways, letting her know that the maids and staff were properly doing their duties.

The merchants, their families, and a few other guests lounged in the dining area, their voices in hushed tones due to the chaos outside.

None of the guests glanced over in Bethany's direction, making her release a sigh of relief.

Though the dining area was rather far away from the lobby, cold sweat traveled down her back.

Returning to face the inn, Bethany still couldn't believe her body was so easily stimulated. Though she didn't often touch herself, it was still something she would do at night while she lay on her bed -- feeling lonesome and longing for the touch of a man. Never an act she'd have done in the open, only in the privacy of her chambers.

Feeling better that no one had heard her, Bethany tried to regain her thoughts, bewildered by the lustful desires bubbling up from inside her.

Bethany couldn't help but notice how her breasts felt tender. What made it worse was how her bosom felt as though they were pressing against her uniform more, as if they grew in size slightly. Her hard nipples slid against the fabric of her uniform. They only added to the erotic sensations she felt and stimulated her slightly.

The thought that guests could see her nipples pressing against her uniform, visible to all, made her feel mixed emotions.

Placing a hand to her forehead, "What is happening to me?" Bethany breathed in and slowly let out the air.

Compared to before, Bethany wasn't as aroused though her breasts were still feeling as though they longed to be held in the grasp of a man's hand.

Bethany began imagining the young noble undressing her, teasing her breasts with his warm breath as if under a spell.

"Please," Bethany pleaded with the young noble, unable to contain the feelings of lust about to spray out of her.

The young noble smiled, enjoying how her hips slowly thrust toward him. He began using his tongue to seductively lick her nipples -- running his tongue in a slow circle as Bethany made short gasping noise, rising in pitch the more aroused she became. Sensing her submitting to his desires, the noble placed his lips over her breasts before his teeth teasingly bit down on her hardened nipples.

Bethany moaned as she held the young lord's head and pressed him into her bountiful chest, hoping he would take all of her.

"Yes, My Lord. Please, suck on them. I need you..., my Master." Bethany moaned as she groped her breasts and lightly pinched her nipples before pulling them away from her.

"Get out of the way!" A man yelled angrily.

Bethany was jolted back to reality, returning to where she stood behind the counter in the lobby of the inn -- though slightly dazed and confused.

Realizing what she was doing, Bethany ran her hand through her hand. "What am I doing?" She felt a wave of shame wash over her. She couldn't believe that she was pleasuring herself publicly at her workstation where anyone could see her.

It was ridiculous that she would commit such an act of perversion, especially for someone her age. No longer was she a young woman that was pulled by her carnal desires, looking at young men her age.

In an attempt to rid herself of such naughty thoughts, she walked through the situation logically. Not only was the young noble part of the nobility and socially beyond her, but he was also someone similar in age to many of the new staff. On top of that, the young noble was a guest at her place of work.

Bethany leaned on the counter and clutched her face.

The idea that someone could've been watching her doing such an indecent act made her blush furiously.

What made it worse was how Bethany could feel that her undergarments between her legs were moist, meaning only one thing. Compared to what she had experienced alone, Bethany knew that her body reacted with such an explosion of erotic intensity than at any time in the past when she'd used her fingers that it made her question if she were sane.

"Get yourself together, Bethany," Bethany chastised herself.

Shaking her head, Bethany placed her hands on the counter and tried to concentrate on what was important.

Currently, Empire soldiers were marching towards Leaf Village, and they'd likely enslaved everyone they didn't kill.

Being a woman young enough to still attract attention from the opposite sex, Bethany knew what would be in store for her if she were captured.

But, despite the danger of being used as a toy by some noble of the Empire for the rest of her life until she was mentally and physically damaged beyond any hope of still being considered human, Bethany felt a sense of calmness. She imagined that such emotions were what also contributed to her shameless behavior.

Movement ahead of her made Bethany look out past the door and notice the carriage of the young noble, parked as though ready to take off.

Seeing the carriage, Bethany's heart sank.

Bethany realized that one of the young noble's servants had informed him of the threat approaching the village.

Thinking that the young noble would leave, some of her was relieved since the noble had treated her so well. The gold she received would be enough if she needed to flee outside of the Empire's influence. If she was frugal enough, one of the towns near the capital would be someplace she could stay while regaining her situation and finding work.

Bethany thought of several people she knew in one of the towns who could potentially set her up with a temporary job as a salesperson at a clothing store.

The sounds of crying could soon be heard behind the partition and interrupted her thoughts.

Bethany curiously moved to see who was making such noises.

Three maids were walking out of one of the hallways branching away from the main one, where the rooms were located.

Upon closer inspection, Bethany noticed that one of the maids was the one that had approached her earlier, worried about what to do about the Empire soldiers slowly encroaching on Leaf Village.

Before going over to ask what the issue was with the maids, Bethany quickly checked her appearance. Her eyes widened in alarm, seeing that her breasts were practically exposed. The memory of entering the trance where she molested and groped her body in a state of animal heat surfaced again. She cursed herself for doing such a disgraceful thing again.

Quickly, Bethany organized herself, neatly putting her uniform back together and shifting the dress so that her chest wasn't on display for all to see. She then ran her hands through her hair, desperately hoping that she didn't look like some lady of the night trying to attract men.

Straightening her posture, Bethany tried to cleanse her mind of the lustful thoughts from earlier. She took a deep breath and slowly released it, helping her to regain some of her professionalism.

Not wanting the maids to further disturb the other guest in the dining area, Bethany walked over to where the maids were huddled together.

Seeing the maids causing such a commotion that guests could see, Bethany was slightly irritated, partially added due to her behavior nearly destroying her reputation at the inn, but the emotion was instantly removed from her mind. It would be insensitive to be critical of valuable workers who were simply concerned about current affairs and their safety.

Even at that moment, the sound of villagers yelling and screaming in panic and fear could be heard as people were slowly evacuated. Shouts of directions let her know that the village guards were involved in trying to direct people so the least number of people could be hurt.

"What is the matter?" Bethany made sure to keep her voice gentle as though talking to a child that had awakened in the middle of the night from a nightmare.

The maid that had talked to her earlier looked at Bethany, her eyes red from crying -- streams of tears pouring down her face. "Miss, I'm sorry for not doing my duties. I just can't help but think of what'll happen to us."

Quickly trying to remember the maids' names, Bethany gave an empathetic smile before motioning to the maids. "Mel, Cally, and Amory, come over here."

Mel, Cally, and Amory were like hatchlings in how they moved together toward someone they trusted. Sniffling and trying to keep their emotions in check.

Though Bethany hadn't interacted with the three maids often, she didn't know how to settle them down, but she did know that the three girls were hard-working employees at the inn. It was only due to the unusual circumstances that caused them to behave in such a manner.

"Girls, it is not appropriate for the three of you to act in such a manner. Such behavior is very unbecoming," Bethany dismissed how she had acted in such a lewd manner moments ago.

"Yes, miss," The three lowered their heads, ashamed of how they acted.

Seeing that the girls understood that they hadn't behaved in a manner acceptable at their place of work, Bethany mentally nodded approvingly.

"Now, have you heard any news?" Bethany looked at Mel.

Mel shook her head, "I asked one of the village guards to send word to my family, asking for them to come here since Miss advised me to stay in the inn. Just in case something happened, I figured it would be better for us to be together instead of separated."

Bethany slowly nodded, relieved that the maid had taken her advice seriously. Outside the inn, the air slowly continued to become more stifling as panic increased, and people did what they felt was necessary to survive, regardless of the consequences. She could only imagine what would happen to three innocent young women out of the protection of Leaf Village walls as they became refugees.

"I overheard the merchants," Cally lowered her head, clasping her hands together against her chest. "They said they needed to get away, stating the Empire soldiers would do awful things to the women they find." The young maid squeezed her eyes shut, tears beginning to form.

Mel and Amory moved closer to Cally and placed their arms around their friend, their eyes beginning to tear up again. Their shoulders trembled as they shakily breathed in and began to sniffle.

Seeing the girls like that, Bethany reached out to lay a hand on Amory and Mel.

Their wet eyes turned to look up at Bethany like the quivering eyes of small animals.

Bethany felt the familiar pressure numerous times in the past training newly hired employees. It was a pressure that she'd become more accustomed to as she grew in seniority.

With the village on the precipice of being destroyed by a cruel and heartless nation, Bethany couldn't help but feel the extra responsibility of dealing with her juniors to be a bit much. At the same time, she more than understood that it was the reason why seniority existed. Being a pillar of support was what allowed any organization to survive during difficult times.

It didn't help that Bethany imagined the three innocent girls covered in blood after being discarded long after they'd been mentally broken with every ounce of value violently dragged out of their bodies -- used to merely exist as a sexual release for thousands of men. Their lifeless eyes desperately beg for an explanation for why she didn't help them that day.

Bethany felt her chest squeeze from the heartache of a real future that lay ahead of them.

"Do not worry, I am here and will do everything I can to keep you safe," Bethany tried to provide even slight relief from their rampant imaginations weaving unspeakable horrors.

Amory wiped the tears from her eyes with the back of her forearm. "What about the noble?"

"Noble?" Bethany raised her eyebrows, forced to remember the young noble's face.

Nodding, Amory said, "Susie said that a noble had arrived at the inn."

Recovering, Bethany smiled, "I am sure that the noble will be able to handle his own affairs. You know that they do not travel without sufficient security."

"But no one saw any people that usually come with nobles," Mel said after she had pulled herself together. "I heard that the carriage just has that monster and the woman driver."

Bethany tried to remember the people that arrived with the young noble, her eyes opening slightly wider. She realized the young noble hadn't come with anyone who would typically be considered guards. She thought of the village's guards, which had numerous weapons on their bodies on top of sufficient armor. But the people included in the entourage could only be considered noncombatants. This was especially the case with the women, whose smooth skin didn't display any indication that they had to even lift an eating utensil.

Though Bethany did remember the one woman with white hair and leather covering little of her voluptuous body, she blushed for even imagining the woman's shapely body. The woman did have a whip attached to her hip.

Bethany wondered if the whip was decorative. But even if the whip wasn't for decoration or other nightly activities, it was hard to imagine such a delicate woman being able to fight off the hardened soldiers of the Empire. She suspected even bandits would be able to disarm the woman without much effort.

Smiling to the girls, "I assume that the young lord has plans in case any dangerous scenarios occur." Bethany tried to brush off the concerns which now infected her thoughts.

Mel's eyes grew large upon remembering something, "The noble has that monster!" A large smile grew on her face.

Furrowing her brow, Bethany asked, "Monster?"

Mel quickly nodded, "The carriage is pulled by a large monster that looks like a dragon. Some of the other workers got too close, and the woman driver warned them to be careful, how the monster wouldn't mind eating them if it felt bothered."

Hearing about a monster with the appearance of a dragon, Bethany felt a strange sensation grow from deep within her chest. She remembered how the young noble's gaze had enchanted her, giving an impression that he knew far more than he revealed.

Though Bethany tried to pay attention to anything that occurred in front of the inn, she likely missed the monster due to the placement of the glass windows. The glass windows allowed her to see outside and the arrival of guests. Now they only presented an image of chaos and devolving of civil order in the village as guards desperately attempted to maintain order.

Bethany couldn't help but think that something was special and unique about the young noble, making her feel an attraction towards him. In addition to the beautiful women surrounding him, how he seemed to have control of her emotions, and the financial power he casually displayed, she couldn't help but be mesmerized. She never thought of being a woman easily swayed by a man who carried influence and power, but her body told a different story.

Even at that moment, a portion of her thoughts continued to make suggestions of how she could take advantage of the chaos outside to walk up the stairs to stand in front of his chambers. Bethany sighed at the idea that only her uniforms were of a certain quality standard compared to what she regularly wore. She imagined that he would look at her more if she wore clothing similar to his attendants -- how each outfit seen would display more of her skin if worn by her.

"My older sister's husband said that he'd be able to get work easily at one of the nearby villages or towns, close to the capital since he works as a guard," Amory smiled at the happy thought.

Cally and Mel's mouths opened wide, hearing what Amory had told them. They moved closer to their friend, eyes shining with curiosity.

Bethany was pulled out from another unusual wave of lust after hearing what Amory had said. Not worrying about how she had experienced another episode, her ears perked, wondering what the girl would say. She did know that a few of the workers at the inn had relatives connected to the guards and other village officials, considering the opportunity to interact with nobles at their establishment. So she was curious about what type of news was being spread during this time.

"Did your brother-in-law say anything about the soldiers coming here?" Cally's lip trembled slightly.

Bethany knew Cally's situation was not as well off as Amory's. Just like there were workers that had numerous opportunities, many also had family dynamics where they were the breadwinners -- having someone depend on them. Mel took care of her younger sister, while Cally had a younger brother. It was likely why the two had reacted to Amory's words in such a manner.

Currently, both Mel and Cally's siblings were waiting inside the employee rest area. The owner, having a kind and understanding heart, allowed people who were the only ones able to take care of their kids or younger siblings to bring them to the inn. On top of allowing younger kids to wait in the inn, the owner would feed them a meal with some snacks to help their mood. They even provided help with reusable diapers, allowing the workers to use the washing facilities to dry out cleaned diapers.

Since there was always an employee in the resting area at any given time, workers would take turns looking after the children.

The treatment wasn't unusual at Leaf Village since many knew one another at different businesses. However, it still made Bethany happy to be a part of such a caring business that cared for its workers.

Amory shook her head, "He rushed to the inn once he found out about the Empire soldiers, telling me to stay at the inn so he can send my sister and niece here. But I haven't heard from him in a while." She wiped away a few tears that formed, "But when my sister arrived, she said that it would be okay and not to worry about him."

Cally and Mel gave Amory a hug after hearing the news.

"Your brother-in-law is correct that staying here is a safe choice. The inn is rather sturdy, so there should be no concern about the chaos outside coming inside." Bethany lay a hand on Amory's wavy blonde hair, gently brushing the girl's hair.

Footsteps were soon heard, making Bethany look back towards the stairs. Turning back to the three girls, she motioned with her hands, "The three of you should get back to work."

Though Bethany understood that the girls were dealing with emotionally heavy problems, she worried that a guest would complain and the three would get in trouble. Though the owner was kind, it was a different story if a guest were to cause a raucous about the quality of the service.

Hearing the footsteps indicating a group of guests making their way down to the lobby, the three girls quickly used their uniform aprons to wipe their faces.

"Yes, miss," The three gave a quick bow to Bethany before they quickly made their way to their tasks.

Bethany walked back to her station, rechecking her outfit to make sure that she was presentable. Unfortunately, there were some areas of her uniform that she'd typically think unacceptable if seen by other workers, but there wasn't enough time. She hoped that the guests would understand the unusual circumstances.

It was then that she noticed the carriage that the young noble had arrived in, waiting in front of the inn. Though the people running past weren't as many as before, with the evacuation slowly progressing, it was still unusual to see such an opulent carriage and the chaos around it.

Raising an eyebrow, her thoughts were soon replaced with a curiosity about who was making their way downstairs. Looking out of the corner of her eyes towards the stairs, Bethany's eyes widened upon seeing that it was the young noble with his entourage, slowly emerging as they walked down the steps.

Bethany's face turned slightly red, seeing the young noble -- memories resurfacing related to her earlier behavior.

Once they all stepped into the lobby, Bethany realized that only a part of the entourage had arrived. There was no longer the village woman or the merchant family with the young noble. This time, it was only the noble and the three ethereal women.

Compared to when they first entered, the outfits were elaborate and shared a common theme.

Bethany couldn't help but stare at how they appeared and the eldritch metal that flowed on their clothes. Her mind told her that such material didn't exist, but it only caused her to want to look closer.

With how they appeared, Bethany wondered if even the Emperor of the Lunar Empire would be able to find a tailor with enough skill to produce such reality-bending clothes.

Catching herself and tearing her mind away from the distraction caused by the young noble and his stunning women, Bethany quickly regained her faculties and moved from behind the counter. As if caught in a motion that couldn't be halted, she reached out toward the young noble. There was no thought about the potential consequences of laying hands on the nobility. Instead, there was only panic as she wondered if the man didn't think of the current circumstance to be dangerous.

"My Lord! You need to leave this village! Lunar Empire soldiers are approaching! The village has been preparing to evacuate those who can!" Bethany shouted out uncharacteristically.

The red-haired lady wearing the most revealing of the three outfits snapped to look at Bethany. Her eyes were full of fury and wrath, enough to burn down the Slumbering Traveler instantly.

But despite facing such heat, Bethany didn't feel her thoughts were her own, only thinking of the young master placing himself in danger. She couldn't believe how the Lord didn't flee quickly from the horde of bloodthirsty soldiers slowly approaching the near-defenseless village. It was as though she were merely a conduit as the thought consumed her and allowed her to disregard the obvious danger.

Seeing that Bethany wasn't going to cease trying to talk to her Lord, the red-haired woman raised a hand with fingers like talons belonging to one of the many monsters stalking the night.

Bethany felt her throat tighten and found it difficult to breathe.

Despite being shorter, the black-haired woman glanced at the furious demon of a woman.

Immediately, the air around Bethany no longer felt viscous. She placed a hand on the counter to stabilize herself. But immediately lowered her hand as the young noble turned to look at her.

His gaze slowly brushed against her body, making the sensation she had felt earlier a minor inconvenience. Bethany was able to stop herself from smiling, enjoying how he looked at her with desire.

"There is no need for you to be concerned for our safety. We merely wish to greet the soldiers and give them a gift." The young noble smiled as though he had little concern about what was happening outside.

"But," Bethany took another step forward, slowly reaching out again as though wanting to forcibly stop the man from making an error.

“Our Master is safe with us. We appreciate you showing such concern.” The black-haired woman looked at Bethany before nodding slightly and following the young master.

The white-haired woman didn't pay her any mind as she followed her Lord.

On the other hand, the red-haired woman threw a sneer that oozed with contempt at Bethany, not hiding what she thought of her.

Bethany watched the group walk out of the inn as though nothing had happened, and it was like any other night. Though he appreciated her concern, she thought about how the Lord exuded complete confidence.

"Please, be safe, young master," Bethany whispered towards the carriage that began moving in the direction of the entrance where danger lurked.

Walking up the stairs, Han noticed that Helania had not followed them up, likely talking to the inn clerk. He couldn't help but smile, thinking of the older woman who seemed attracted to him, though he suspected that even she didn't know why that was the case.

He imagined that Helania was perceptive and noticed his interest in the woman. She was likely setting things in motion for his future. Though he was curious, at the same time, it felt like digging too deeply into it would ruin his fun.

Queen and Brittany quietly walked behind him, not finding it strange for Helania to act alone.

Though it hadn't been long since he created them, Han was slowly noticing behavioral differences, especially their general attitude. It was particularly noticeable with Brittany.

"I should reward her at some point," Han thought -- enjoying how his creation demonstrated such passion and loyalty towards him.

Though it was painful to remember, Han hadn't recalled Beth behaving in such a manner -- especially if someone talked down to him. There were even moments when she would join the teasing, later telling him that she didn't mean it and was only keeping him humble.

It was why he appreciated how Brittany behaved.

Reaching the third floor, Han glanced at Tom, his family, and Elis -- waiting for him. He raised an eyebrow but then realized what would cause their behavior.

They rushed towards Han before firing off questions.

"My Lord, what is happening? The hotel staff had stopped by our rooms to inform us that the Empire was invading. However, they recommended we wait in our rooms until further information was available." Tom's eyes were wide, looking at Han and then at his creations.

Queen looked at Tom coldly while Brittany had a sneer on her beautiful face.

Han knew Tom was worried about his family's safety, not blaming the man for demanding answers. This was especially the case since all the other villagers were being evacuated as they spoke. Only inside the inn did there still appear to be people, making Han wonder who had made such a decision and why.

Tom paused before lowering his eyes, the blood draining from his face. "My Lord, I ask your forgiveness. My behavior is not acceptable for someone of my status." He bowed to Han.

Han shook his head, waving a hand, "Your worries are natural, considering your family's safety is in question."

"My Lord, thank you for your mercy," Molly stood next to her husband and quickly bowed as well.

"As I said, your actions are reasonable," Han looked at Molly before turning his head to Tom. "Both of you, raise your head."

The two straightened their backs.

Tom's face was no longer pale, though a bit of sweat was on his forehead.

"Speak," Han noticed how Tom looked like a student requesting permission to use the restroom, holding something in due to his earlier actions.

Tom raised a hand and coughed, "Hoping that Elis would have more information, considering how she had been part of your entourage when you arrived to save my family, we asked her what we should do." Tom paused before continuing, "She advised us that there was nothing to be worried about and that we should wait for your arrival."

Elis blushed upon hearing Tom's words. "My Lord, I simply wanted to comfort his family, considering the children were also frightened."

Han looked at the two children, who didn't appear as bothered by what was happening. Based on their behavior, he suspected the two didn't fully understand what was happening. His eyes noticed additional maids waiting next to the room for Tom's family.

Sensing their Creator looking at them, they curtsied in greeting.

Han thought it was interesting the contrast of emotions. Tom and Molly worried about what was seen outside, while Elis was reassured. Then there were the two children who didn't fully grasp what was happening. The maids helped to keep their emotional states in check, so they weren't overly stressed.

"The matter about the Empire has been dealt with. It should be soon that everything returns to relative normality in this village." Han nonchalantly waved a hand to brush aside the matter.

Then, he remembered the woman they had encountered earlier, the one from the Academic City. Han suspected it was a prominent location with some influence based on how she used her title. If it was a simple school, it was unlikely that they would send out someone to support the village.

Thinking it would be an opportunity to explore the world instead of simply heading to the capital. Han sensed that his plans would need to be adjusted now that he encountered the woman.

He looked at the group in front of him. "With the new information I have acquired, I think it is time for us to part ways."

Tom and his family's eyes widened at Han's sudden announcement.

Elis looked at Tom's family before looking at Han and his group.

"I will be traveling to other parts of the Kingdom, and I suspect it will diverge from your normal plans, Tom. You and your family have been a delight, but I believe it is time to say goodbye for now, though our paths may converge in the future." Han smiled.

Tom's face fell a little after hearing they would be parting ways.

Molly had the same expression, though she looked back at Elis.

Han smiled at how the children behaved, turning to look at the maids that arrived after he had left the inn. He imagined that the children enjoyed what the maids had provided. The innocence of children and how it was easy to read their minds was always a wonder.

"Brittany, have the maids do something nice for the children," He linked with his creation.

"As you wish, My Master," Brittany obeyed.

Though the children were likely more concerned about the snacks and other items they were able to experience, Tom and Molly had different expressions.

"My Lord, though our time has been short, I have become indebted beyond what a single lifetime could provide. I hope that in the future, our family will come to your mind if you ever require anything." Tom bowed.

"Yes, My Lord. You are our family's benefactor. My children have a future only because of your actions. Please, do not hesitate to call for us, and we will arrive with haste." Molly bowed, her eyes moist from tears.

Han suspected that Tom may be thinking of his loss from no longer having a connection with him, but he didn't doubt that the merchant was genuine with his words. For a merchant, relationships, and network development were crucial to success. He even remembered times when he benefitted greatly purely due to tentative connections he made with the help of others.

His eyes moved to look at Elis, who had a slightly bitter smile. "If you are still interested, you are more than welcomed to continue traveling with me." Han offered the village woman.

Han couldn't help but think Elis had only left her home because of him. With that in mind, he had no desire to abandon her just because something interesting had surfaced. For as long as she wanted, Han would allow Elis to travel with his group, even willing to offer her a position inside the Stronghold.

Hearing Han's words, Elis's expression brightened slightly before she bowed. She then looked at Han, "My Lord, I'm forever changed for the benefit I've gained from meeting you and the Ladies who have treated me well, especially for someone as lowly as myself. But...," Elis blinked, a tear traveling down her cheek, which she wiped away with the back of her hand. "I will be declining your offer."

Han looked at Molly before looking at Elis.

"I've discussed it with Molly, and I would like to help out with Tom's business," Elis struggled to hold back her emotions.

Molly moved to stand by Elis's side and gave the village woman a comforting hug for support.

Elis raised a hand to touch Molly's arm. "All that I've been able to experience and the opportunities gained are because of you, My Lord. I'm truly grateful you've shown so much kindness and presented a brighter world filled with opportunity." She sniffled as she pressed her other hand to her face, though failing to hide the rivers of tears that streamed down her face -- which now appeared slightly more vibrant than when she was back in her home village.

Seeing Elis' tears made Han think about how his actions, even if minor, could have such a material impact, which made him pause. It made him wonder how Elis would grow in the world after interacting with him and his creations.

"I can only think of myself as fortunate to find someone with so much potential and be allowed to help you unlock your life. There is no need to feel thankful. To be present as you find something you want to chase after is more than enough for me." Han smiled at seeing how the woman who started out beaten down by life bloomed into a wonderful woman.

Han lifted his hand towards Elis.

Seeing Han's outstretched hand, Elis looked up at him with her eyebrows raised, searching for the meaning of his gesture. She then looked back at the palm.

Slowly, in Han's hand, it started as a water droplet of light, hovering a few inches from his skin. Though the light was dim, it began growing in intensity.

Molly stared at the light in Han's hand before her eyes looked at him, her mouth partly open. Though she wanted to ask, her eyes were slowly drawn back to the droplet.

Initially, the light was dimmer compared to the mana crystal lamps, but it didn't remain the case as the light became brighter. Its intensity was significant enough that Elis and Tom's family had to look away, covering their eyes to protect them.

Han smiled, able to see the ball of light slowly begin to form as though it were liquid metal. Two points on the ball started to be pulled before creating an intertwining pattern. The two lengths of the chain continued to replicate the design before finally meeting at the ends, a clasp formed to connect them. Next, the ball of light slowly began to flatten like a water droplet pressed between two panes of glass.

On the surface of the flattened droplet were two bright points as though a high-focused laser was engraving onto the surface of the metal. Each point slowly created the image of a star and moon.

Seeing the star and the moon, Han reflected on their significance in his life and why he had chosen them. Though his creations may not fully understand his relationship to the two symbols, he was confident that it would be soon that they, along with everyone else, did.

The hallway was bathed in cosmic lights, various colors emerging and being replaced in an endless cycle.

Han slowly pulled away his powers, and the light faded until everything returned to normal. However, the wall lamps seemed slightly brighter than before.

With the light no longer blinding them, Elis and Tom's family hesitatingly removed their hands.

Elis' hands slightly trembled from the experience as she looked at what now existed in the center of Han's palm. Seeing the ethereal beauty created by Han, the simple village woman's eyes were mesmerized as though nothing else existed in the world.

Though the pendant was solid, if a person looked closely, the material gave the impression of being liquid with how it appeared to continually flow. The symbols of the star and moon had a faint glow, making anyone captivated by its eldritch beauty.

"To congratulate you on beginning your new future, I wanted to gift you an item to commemorate our connection. Wherever you go, if you hold onto the pendant and concentrate, your voice will be able to reach me." Han raised his hand to offer the item to Elis.

Still entranced by the necklace, Elis continued to gaze at it.

"Elis?" Molly's eyes looked at Elis, her brow slightly furrowed before she looked at the item in Han's hand. Unlike Elis' expression, Molly stared at the object as though it were a creature that needed to be respected lest it defends itself.

Hearing Molly's voice, Elis shook as though she were pulled out from a deep dream.

Elis turned to look at Molly and then at Han, "I'm sorry, My Lord. It was just so beautiful that I couldn't help myself." She giggled, tears forming as her emotions overflowed.

Holding two hands in front of her and below Han's hand, Elis bowed to accept the gift.

Slightly tilting his hand, the necklace gracefully slid onto Elis' hands. Though the item dimmed slightly after losing contact with its creator, the necklace was still breathtaking with its unworldly appearance.

Feeling the necklace in her hands, Elis straightened. Visibly tearing up, “Thank you, my lord! I'll cherish this present and always have it hanging from my neck.”

Han looked at Tom, smiling slightly at how his expression was similar to his wive's. Tom's eyes were locked on the item, pulled in by its beauty and respectful of its hidden strength. It was like looking at a highly venomous snake and appreciating its appearance while giving it enough space.

"Due to matters I must handle, I hope each of you has a wonderful night. Feel free to ask your maids for any convenience you might desire. They will continue to serve you until my business in this village ends, so I hope you do not feel constrained by social etiquette." Han smiled as he wished them a good night.

"I wish for you a good night, My Lord," Elis bowed, the pendant already hanging from her neck.

"We wish you a good night, My Lord. We look forward to our next encounter." Tom bowed to Han, knowing it would be the last time he met the mysterious young lord for a while.

Han nodded to Elis and Tom's family before walking towards his room, the door already opened by Brittany.

---

As Han entered the room, he smiled upon seeing Helania already waiting for him in the main social space.

"I see that your business with the inn clerk has ended?" Han grinned, the back of his mind curious about what had taken place between his creation and the woman.

Helania smiled as she bowed, "Yes, My Master."

Han was happy that Helania didn't even offer an explanation, already knowing that he wanted to be surprised in the future. He couldn't help but ponder how the inn clerk would fit into his life and the tapestry created by his actions.

Turning to Queen, "I want you to assign one of your creatures to look after her, hidden in the shadows and out of sight. Have it report if anything suspicious happens around Elis.”

The longer he stayed in Eletran, Han learned that the world was drowning in violence due to the level of civilization, far beyond anything which could be found on Earth. With such thoughts in mind, leaving the simple village woman exposed to the limitless dangers of the fantasy world didn't give a pleasant sensation.

Han also worried about Elis' position, being of a lower social status compared to Tom's family. Though he didn't think that Tom or Molly would intentionally abuse Elis, it didn't change the fact that Elis lacked life experience and education. The pendant would also serve as a reminder to Tom's family that Elis would always have a connection to him. Every time Tom or Molly looked at the pendant hanging from Elis' neck, they would think of him and the consequences of any overtly hostile actions.

Han also knew that even if Tom and his family didn't take advantage of Elis, plenty of other people would be eager to use her for their own gain. It didn't help that she was still a beauty despite her age. She would likely have many attempting to approach her with the appearance of kindness but with hearts filled with greed and lust.

With that in mind, Han had instilled the pendant with his will to protect her. It may not have unlimited power, but even the attacks he witnessed used by the Empire wouldn't have an impact on her. The pendant would also alert her of the intentions of others so that she may navigate life, avoiding malicious individuals.

He even made sure that the moment Elis put on the necklace, she'd have no desire to remove it from her body. She'll always desire to have the metal against her skin. In addition to the protections granted to the item, no existence could force Elis to part with it.

Having Queen's minions monitor Elis would also solve any issues that could occur outside his casual predictions.

Han made his way to the main seat in the social area. Though it hadn't been a difficult day for him, it was significantly more involved compared to life in the past. Feeling a bit dramatic, Han plopped himself on top of the chair and closed his eyes slightly.

He enjoyed feeling the seat engulf him in the cushion.

On either side of his head, delicate hands were gently placed on his skin. The fingers slowly massaged his face, eliminating any little stress that had built up during the day.

"Thank you, Brittany," Han didn't even bother to open his eyes.

"Allow me to take away all the fatigue built from your hard work, Master," Brittany lowered her head and gently pressed her luscious lips onto the top of Han's head.

A sigh passed through his lips, feeling the way Brittany gently massaged him but with enough force to push out any of the stress from his muscles. On top of sitting on a comfortable chair, Brittany's fingers made him feel as though he was floating through the air.

"How long do you think until the Lady Knight arrives?" Han smirked at the thought of the blonde-haired woman covered in armor.

Han suspected that she was the serious type without even knowing the woman. He couldn't help but grin at how much he'd be able to tease her.

"I suspect that it will not take her long to check out the area past the pyramid, though it will likely cause her to have more questions," Helania raised a hand to her mouth and lightly laughed.

"Will we be going to this Academic City, Master?" Queen raised an eyebrow.

Smiling, hearing the underlying question beneath his creation's question. Han could tell that Queen thought the trip was a waste of time, though she didn't want to stop him from pursuing his interests.

Memories of his school life slowly floated to the surface in the sizeable bottomless ocean of his memory. He remembered moments when he laughed with classmates and times he was laughed at by them. There were also times when he would walk alone on the streets, carrying his violin, trying to avoid attracting any attention.

With his past experience, Han couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to attend school while not being in the position he found himself in as a child. Compared to the past, this time, he'd be able to take care of himself on top of having those who care for him.

It was the reason why when the woman mentioned her title, his heart fluttered slightly.

Han knew it was silly, but he couldn't help but imagine what school would be like when it wasn't, more often than not, a daily nightmare. The child in him could be heard telling him to visit the city and attend it.

"I apologize, Master," Queen's voice quiet like a whisper.

Slightly raising his right hand and making a brushing motion, "There is no reason to be apologetic, my beautiful creation. I understand why you would feel it to be a waste of time."

Brittany's fingers paused just for a fraction of a second before continuing to massage his face.

"Aside from the sentimental reasons, I suspect this city will have plenty of information about this world. Being a student would allow us to gather intelligence about the neighboring countries." Han smoothed over the awkward atmosphere hanging in the air.

Han turned over his hand and soon felt a hand placed on top.

The hand trembled slightly.

He gently wrapped his fingers and held the hand. Though her skin was cool to the touch, a slight warmth began to be felt. A few moments passed before the cool hand ceased to tremble.

"Thank you, Master," Queen shyly looked away, her cheeks with a faint pink color.

Not wanting to let her hand go, Han continued, "There is also the opportunity for us to relax in a relatively safe environment while we watch how people in a better political position behave in this world. I also enjoy the idea of pretending to be a student."

He thought back to when he first talked with the Lady Knight and imagined she hadn't gained a good view of him. While keeping photos of himself as a student, Han pushed his will into his body.

The chair made squeaking noises as his body slid on the surface. He also felt himself rising slightly due to his weight decreasing due to the age of his body changing.

Brittany had removed her hands as Han began slowly adapting his body to fit his thought.

A few pops could be felt and heard, Han's bones slowly adjusting to the new frame. He sucked in a little air from the momentary pain he felt. Though he didn't think he did anything incorrectly, the pain wasn't something to be enjoyed, regardless of the duration.

"Are you alright, Master?" Helania asked.

When he opened his eyes, Han noticed that everything around him appeared slightly different. It took a minute to realize that it was the change in perspective with his decrease in size. Han chuckled, thinking how so much could change with minor adjustments.

Already, Han noticed that all his creations were slightly larger, especially Helania, whose height used to be the same as his before the change.

"Master, you look so adorable," Brittany squealed as she pulled Han into a hug, burying his face into her bosom.

Han enjoyed the moment, Brittany's floral fragrance filling the air as he breathed it in.

"Master, if you want to smell more of me, we could enjoy ourselves for the night," A smile slowly grew larger on Brittany's face as she thought about being alone with Han for a passion-filled session.

There was a light cough before Helania ended such thoughts. "Remember that our Master is waiting to meet the Lady Knight. Please remember yourself."

The air crackled slightly, making Han's hair lift up and the room brighten.

Brittany made a clicking sound with her tongue. She opened her mouth but closed it as though deciding another time would be better. Her eyes stared directly at Helania as she had Han's head in her bosom, gritting her teeth.

Sensing how things were getting out of control, Han wanted to say something, but at the moment, his face was entirely covered by Brittany's supple milky skin. Though he enjoyed being sandwiched between her two large mounds, he suspected that delaying things would cause a conflict.

Gently, Han pushed himself away from Brittany.

Immediately she released her Master from her land of milk and honey.

"Calm down, you two," Han looked at Helania and Brittany.

"Sorry, Master," Brittany pouted, tears beginning to form in her eyes.

Seeing Brittany's reaction, Queen rolled her eyes but kept her silence.

Helania looked at the maid with a flat expression.

Queen and Helania shared a brief look before returning their attention to Han.

"I believe our Master would like to see himself in a mirror," Helania coldly spoke to Brittany.

Hearing Helania's voice, the pout on Brittany's face faded, and she gave Helania and Queen a look. Raising a hand, she snapped her fingers.

Close to the entrance to the room, the air split apart to form a portal that shimmered in the air as though alive and eager to serve—only a moment passed before faces emerged from the shimmering surface like a person emerging from a crystal clear pool.

Two maids were soon seen carrying a large mirror similar to the one Han had used in the changing room earlier in the day.

Han moved away from Brittany, who sighed at no longer having him near her.

Going over to the mirror, Han soon was able to admire himself. His reflection stared back at him, allowing him to see something he hadn't seen in years.

What stuck out to him the most was how he had lost a significant amount of weight. He looked a little healthier compared to his slightly pudgier body shape after years of eating at the office and not having the time to go to the public gym at school. The sight of his younger self brought back many memories of life when he finished high school and attended a university.

He saw how the clothes he wore were loose in some areas.

"Master, we can have a new outfit designed for you quickly," Brittany gracefully made her way from where she stood to where Han stood.

With a slight shake of his head, Han pulled in his will and imagined the clothes he wore in his mind. Slowly the outfit shifted and slid along his skin like the comforting embrace of one of his creations.

Seeing that the clothes fit his figure better, Han turned slightly to ensure there weren't any other spots he missed.

"Another benefit of attending this school is learning how people in this world use magic abilities," Han casually remarked after thinking about his own powers as his eyes searched for any errors which may have occurred after adjusting the outfit.

Seeing the mages from the Empire use their abilities to fight Queen made Han slightly curious as to what allowed people in this world to be able to use mana in the manner they do.

Han adjusted himself so he could see Queen's reflection.

"A wise decision, My Master." Queen bowed her head. "Their powers were not impressive, but it should not mean we should be arrogant about our superiority."

His eyes shifted to look at Helania's reflection.

"I agree with Queen. Even if our powers are magnitudes greater than humans, there is always the chance they have some kind of advantage over us. I would prefer us to be able to dominate our opponents than allow them to assert any pressure on us." Helania looked at Queen before turning her attention to Han.

Hearing their opinions, Han felt better about their position. Though he could tell that Queen didn't find humans to be anything remotely close to their level, it was more important that she made sure to anticipate any issues.

"I feel more assured that you are in charge of our forces," Han turned, his eyes staring into Queen's eyes.

Queen's eyes looked down, "There is no need for you to concern yourself, My Master. I will show that any doubts are unnecessary. Even if I must drag this world into the Lands of the Dead, they will be unable to form any opposition against you."

"We will also make sure to remain hidden, My Master," Helania added to Queen's words.

Han appreciated how Helania was able to keep an eye on the larger picture, knowing what he desired in this world. It made him think she would have no issues handling a multi-reality enterprise.

Queen closed her eyes before slowly opening them again, "My Master, it seems your guest has arrived at the inn."

Waving a hand at the maids with the mirror, the mirror was carried away back into the portal. The air shimmered before the tear in space slowly merged together, removing all traces of the damage.

Han couldn't help but grin, thinking of the Lady Knight's angry expression.

"Master?" Brittany tilted her head, her red shoulder-length hair cascading from her shoulders, slightly swaying in the air.

Walking over to the chair, Han slowly sat down, enjoying how comfortable it felt. He casually ran his index finger along the leather fabric, thinking how much the chair would've cost the inn. The opulence was a reminder that the room was designed for a noble. Nobles that inherited the position and lacked any talent.

Brittany walked back to stand behind him, laying her delicate, milky white hands on the chair.

Laying back, Han smiled upon feeling his creation massage his head again. Compared to the nobles that ruled the Kingdom, it paled in comparison to what he had access to, especially the care and love shown by his people.

Seeing their master preferring to relax while he waited for his guest, Helania and Queen sat beside each other on his right side, away from the door.

Another portal tore through the air, and several maids emerged from the glimmering surface. Each of them carried a tray with cups and teacups in addition to cream and sweeteners. The air was filled with a floral and sweet scent that lifted the atmosphere.

A few maids began placing items on top of counters and tables throughout their room.

Han raised an eyebrow until he smelled a soothing scent, indicating the maids had activated diffusers with therapeutic essential oils contained within. As he breathed in, his mind felt sharper and clearer. At the same time, his muscles felt relaxed, as though being inside a high-end spa. He may have never entered a luxury spa, but from what Beth had told him, the experience was magical.

A platter of fruits and vegetables was laid on the table with numerous sauces to dip them in.

"Master, would you care for a drink?" Helania placed a saucer with a cup on top in front of where Han sat.

"I would like that," Han watched as his creations moved in such a way that it looked like a performance.

Helania picked up the teapot, which had the patterns of stars and moons gently moving through an empty void. Tilting it slightly, a calm stream of tea poured out without causing any splashes inside the cup. The stream of liquid lacked any ripples, giving the impression of being solid. As the level of the tea rose in the cup, the stream stopped without drips.

Placing the teapot back on the table, Helania moved like a dancer, picking up a container with a golden viscous liquid inside. Using the spoon, honey was expertly added without any waste. Finally, the cream was added, pouring out of the cup and disrupting the surface of the amber-colored tea.

Using a spoon to stir the contents of the liquid without touching the cup, Helania removed the spoon before lifting it up to be present to Han.

"For My Master, a being without peer and captivating all we are." Helania's smile was like a sunrise on a clear morning.

"Thank you, Helania. Seeing you prepare this was a joy. Your elegant movements entranced me." Han took the saucer from his creation.

Han looked at the slightly tan tea, placing the cup close to his nose and smiling upon smelling the fragrant liquid. It was easy to tell that all the ingredients were beyond anything enjoyed on Earth. He imagined even a sip would be worth fortunes.

Taking a sip of the liquid, Han enjoyed the sensation of the tea, which was somewhere between being hot and warm. As it flowed down his throat, his body felt an ease similar to the comfort he experienced being surrounded by the beautiful women he created with how the tea felt as though it overflowed with love and care for his health.

Han basked in the warmth of the tea, not able to stop himself from smiling.

Seeing Han enjoy his tea, Helania proceeded to pour a cup and prepare a serving for Queen.

Queen nodded and gave a slight smile, "Thank you."

Helania turned to look at Brittany, "Would you care for a cup?"

"I will continue to serve My Master," Brittany dismissed the offer, not even stopping her fingers from continuing to devotedly massage Han's face.

Helania smiled at Brittany before going to serve herself some of the tea.

Enjoying the tea and his creation taking care of him, Han stayed out of the exchange between Helania and Brittany. It wasn't challenging to sense that tension existed between his creations. The friction stemming due to their differences in how to serve him. With this in mind, talking to Brittany didn't seem necessary. He knew that Brittany was a kind woman at heart, even if her devotion may appear to be extreme to others. Han sensed that Helania and Queen also understood the attitude Brittany had, letting it continue.

Taking another sip of the tea, Han sighed with contentment as Brittany's fingers continued to drain any fatigue from his mind. With her massage, the tea, and the aerotherapeutics, the overall experience helped him to feel content.

A soft knock was heard on the door.

Han smiled, knowing it couldn't have belonged to the Lady Knight. From their brief interaction, it was likely that the woman would've hammered on the wood while demanding an audience with him.

One of his maids made her way toward the door.

Doing a brief inspection of the room from where he sat, Han made sure that nothing too conspicuous would cause awkward questions to be asked. Despite the actions performed, it was his desire to keep a moderately low profile.

"Though, I do not mind responding to anyone's attempt to ruin my fun," Han snickered as he took a sip.

The sound of the door being opened could be heard before it was closed. Returning to the main social area, the maid bowed, "Master, there is a woman who would like to speak with you. She asserts that you had agreed to a meeting earlier."

Han nodded and waved a hand.

The clanking of armor invaded the peaceful environment of the room.

Likened to the first time they had met, this time, the Lady knight had removed her helmet, allowing her long blonde hair to cascade down her back. She slowly scanned the room and mentally noted everyone before falling on Han. They slightly widened upon seeing him but soon narrowed. Her blue eyes didn't quite reach what would be considered a glare, but just above it.

Gruffly courtesying to Han, "My Lord, I appreciate you granting me an audience to speak with you."

Han noticed that her anger was turned down several notches to a low simmer. Seeing how she behaved, he wondered how much it was due to being in the presence of a noble or his youthful appearance. But it was clear that she expected to be listened to, regardless of his social standing. It was like she were a teacher catching a misbehaving student in the middle of breaking the rules.

The Lady Knight was only giving him the bare minimum. Even then, it was tenuously held in place due to the circumstances.

"How may I be of assistance to the Lady Knight of Illumin?" Han slowly took in her appearance. "Or should I call you Valessandria?"

He didn't mean to be flippant, but the way she stood at the entrance to his room made him imagine she would take out some formal document to interrogate him. It wasn't difficult to notice that she didn't enjoy having to be deferential to nobles.

“I have come to request that you provide me the information you promised me,” Valessandria spat out the words as she grimaced, her brows furrowed.

The temperature of the room dropped by several degrees. Around them, the maids slightly shifted their body weight, the air shimmering as though charged. Some of the beast people maids snarled with their hair raised and tails straight.

Helania and Queen were much calmer, with Queen only making a slight frown. This was a stark contrast to Helania, whose eyebrows and lips were a flat line.

Raising her cup, Helania took a simple sip as her eyes stayed watching the Lady Knight.

Han didn't need to see Brittany's expression since it felt like an inky black void of viscous murderous rage bubbled behind him. But even with the air feeling thick to make any human have difficulty breathing, the fingers on his head remained gentle and loving as they slowly massaged him.

The Lady Knight's face slowly drained of blood as her shoulders raised from her taking deeper breaths. Her jaws were clenched, and a small trickle of blood spilled down her lips.

Raising the saucer and moving his hand past the armrest, the saucer and cup were immediately taken from his hand by one of the maids. Despite the heightened tension in the room, it made him happy to know that they made sure to take care of their duties.

Han noticed that the Lady Knight's face was beginning to have a blue tinge.

"I do not believe I understand what you expect from me?" Han raised his eyebrows as he spread his hands apart.

Hearing his words, the Lady Knight grunted as she glared at him. There was the sound of grinding metal as her armored gloves clenched tighter into a fist.

Han mentally congratulated the woman.

But despite her efforts, her eyes appeared to drunkenly swim for a moment before regaining control as she shifted her weight and straightened her posture defiantly.

"What were you doing there then? When everyone was being evacuated, you were at the other entrance where that pyramid now exists." Her words were spoken through her clenched teeth.

Seeing that the woman wasn't changing her behavior, the room dropped a few more degrees, and the air was like a soup with how much killing intent soaked the room. Like a shadow draped across everything, the light darkened with a sinister aura, sapping away any life from the immediate area.

Han could understand her frustration, considering what she would've discovered after going past the pyramid. It was also reasonable that she wanted to gain answers to the questions plaguing her mind. But her mannerism and accusatory eyes made him want to heckle her. After everything he experienced, he didn't care to be treated in such a manner as though he was obligated to obey her.

"Please...," The Lady Knight finally raggedly breathed out. Her body began to tremble. A muted clang was heard as her helmet, cradled in her arm, fell to the floor and rolled a bit from the impact.

Though he heard her plea, Han sat in his seat and watched before he smiled and slightly raised a hand.

Immediately, the room brightened, and all traces of what had just occurred faded, like a storm breaking to allow the sun to flood the lands below it. Once again, the essential oils could be smelled as they wafted in the air.

"Have a seat," Han motioned to the open couch.

Valessandria swayed as she breathed heavily, the blue in her skin beginning to recede after a few seconds. Her mouth slightly opened, no longer clenched.

One of the maids walked to Valessandria and gently guided her to the sofa.

As though in a daze, Valessandria didn't even attempt to pick up her helmet. She appeared apathetic about her appearance while staggering toward the couch. Instead of taking a seat, the Lady Knight collapsed on the cushion, the couch making a slight creaking sound upon taking the sudden weight.

Han observed as Valessandria leaned against the armrest on her right side while trying to recover from the experience.

---

Valessandria still felt her body shiver. However, she felt as though her mind was beginning to clear. In the air, she could smell something unique that permeated throughout the room. She didn't know why but breathing in the scent helped to clear her mind and help her body to stop trembling in fear.

"What is this noble?" Valessandria glanced at the attendants as they waited patiently for their master to require anything from them.

It was a drastic shift compared to earlier.

She could admit that her behavior was rude and unbecoming of someone of her status, representing the prestige of Illumin Academic City. As the head of the Disciplinary Committee, it was vital that she maintained a level-headed attitude regardless of whether she interacted with a noble or commoner.

So the way she barged in and demanded answers from a noble, particularly without knowing their rank, was something she often chastised recruits.

Valessandria mentally groaned, thinking about how the President often warned about her hot-headed character flaw. He would talk about how it would get her in trouble someday with someone she couldn't afford to offend.

Never before had she experienced such dense killing intent, feeling as though she was being drowned in a bottomless ocean. She didn't know if it was due to losing her breath, but the room appeared to have darkened as though a shadow enveloped everyone. When the miasma receded and she was able to breathe, the room returned to being bright as any other room in the inn.

"Tea?"

Valessandria jumped, startled by the innocent voice. She turned her head to see a maid in a frilly black uniform with a white frilled apron. It even had a puffed-out skirt with intricate symbols on the black fabric.

What startled her more were the floppy black bunny ears on top of her head. A second passed as she realized it was a bunny girl beast person with shiny black fur covering her body.

The maid stood there patiently, not seeming bothered by how Valessandria gaped at her.

Realizing what she was doing, Valessandria pulled herself out of her daze. She gave a stiff nod.

Giving a smile in addition to the slight wiggle of her pink nose, the maid walked away from the sofa towards what appeared to be a serving room for the staff.

Valessandria noticed the young noble looking at her, his brown eyes twinkling with amusement. Her face turned scarlet, knowing how she had behaved. She also realized that it was thanks to him that she was still alive. Though the staff appeared friendly now, they would've killed her even before she could blink.

Placing her hand on her neck, she couldn't help but imagine her head tumbling down as it looked up at her standing corpse. A shiver passed through her again.

"My Lord, I would like to offer my sincere apology for my earlier behavior," Valessandria bowed her head deeper than any time in the past, desperate to believe the noble would accept her sincerity. "Regardless of my emotions at the time, there was no justified reason for me to act rudely."

"Raise your head, Lady Knight," His voice was calm.

Lifting her head, Valessandria couldn't help but feel her skin slightly call as she looked into his eyes and the mocking smile. Blinking, the noble returned to his normal appearance as though it were all a hallucination on her part.

"My Lord...," Valessandria said.

"Please, call me Yi. I think we have both gone through some difficult times today." The noble said.

Hearing light footsteps, Valessandria turned to see the bunny girl maid from earlier carrying a decorative metal tray.

Not saying a word, the maid stopped next to the couch and presented a cup filled with a golden liquid with a bit of steam gently rising from the surface. The bone-white cup and saucer enhanced the color.

"Thank you," Valessandria attempted to smile while carefully lifting the saucer.

The room was filled with the clinking sound of the cup rattling on the saucer, her hand still not having recovered. She glanced at the cup, noticing vines with stars and moons expertly painted on the surface. Raising the cup closer to her nose, Valessandria breathed in the vapors.

A soothing energy slowly spread out from her body, her hand ceasing to tremble as much.

"I hope the tea is to your liking," Yi took a sip of his tea as the red-haired maid continued to use her fingers to massage the boy's head.

Sensing Valessandria's eyes on her, the woman casually glanced at her, though Valessandria couldn't help but feel a slight stabbing pain in her chest as a sliver of killing intent leaked out.

"Brittany, you are being rude to our guest," The black-haired woman chastised her associate.

The corner of the woman named Brittany's mouth slightly turned down as she looked at the black-haired woman before returning her full attention to the young noble.

Valessandria's chest felt the pressure lift, her lungs able to smoothly carry the air into them.

"I apologize for Brittany's behavior," The black-haired woman slightly bowed her head, her straight glistening hair flowing over her shoulders. She raised her head and placed a porcelain hand on her bountiful chest, "I am Helania. I handle all the duties related to my Master's personal affairs and estate, coordinating with his family." Seeing the cup in Valessandria's hand, "The tea will help to calm your nerves."

Despite the soothing words flowing out of the woman's mouth, Valessandria was slightly unnerved by the woman's deep purple eyes. She didn't know if it was her imagination, but the irises seemed to crackle with energy, leaking out hints of some eldritch secrets contained inside the captivating exterior.

"Yes." Valessandria raised the cup to her lips and drank the slightly hot liquid.

Her eyes widened as the golden fluid entered her mouth, introducing flavors she'd never encountered, even with her status inside the Academic City. Just as Helania, the black-haired woman, had said, her body felt as though it were being cradled in a warm fluffy blanket -- the chill that permeated her body being exorcised.

Seeing Valessandria's expression, Helania smiled.

Returning the cup to the saucer, Valessandria continued to hold the items in her hands. The tiny white cup was a shield that protected not just her body but also her mind -- tenuously held together by healing liquid. In her mind, the drink was akin to an otherworldly elixir.

As she sat on the couch, Valessandria couldn't help but imagine herself lost in an accursed land untouched by even the gods and demons of old, ruled by eldritch cosmic beings of unspeakable powers beyond anything her feeble mortal mind could imagine. Even with the armor on her feminine body, she couldn't help but imagine herself as a child wearing a chainmail created from grass while holding a stick to protect herself.

Once again, she was reminded how much of an error she had made, encountering such a being as the young lord.

Valessandria thought about her position as the head of the Disciplinary Committee at Illumin Academic City as though it was some talisman to give her strength to add to the tea. It was a desperate attempt for her to not feel overwhelmed.

Lifting the cup back to her lips, she took another sip, hoping it calmed her nerves. A sigh left her mouth as she felt the energy travel throughout her body, helping to restore her. She was grateful for the tea.

"Thank you for the tea," Valessandria bowed her head to the young noble.

"Please, feel free to call me Yi," Yi reminded her.

Taking in a breath and slowly letting it out, she couldn't help but think about how ridiculous it was to be in her current position. "Yi...," Valessandria hesitatingly said the young noble's name, finding it to be alien on her tongue.

Yi simply sat in his chair while waiting for her to continue. The one named Brittany stopped massaging his face and simply stood behind his chair, feeling a mix between a maid and a sentinel.

Even with the woman standing there, Valessandria couldn't see any openings. In her mind, any attack made on her part would be instantly stopped by all the surrounding attendants, and even if she were able to break through, the one named Brittany would cleave her in two.

"Yi, please tell me what you were doing there. We had received a report of the Empire invading the Kingdom and immediately left the City to provide aid. While everyone else in the village was evacuating, your carriage had appeared through the same entrance the Empire forces would have entered." Though she felt frustrated, Valessandria kept a tight reign on her emotions, not even daring to reveal a frown or hint of her actual thoughts.

All around her, she could feel the eyes of the young noble's attendants on her as though waiting for her to step out of line.

Valessandria took another sip of the tea, her eyes widening upon finding out that she had finished the tea. Her stomach dropped slightly, finding out the liquid courage which allowed her to question a being like the young noble was gone.

As if sensing how Valessandria felt, the bunny girl maid approached the couch with a new metal tray and a new cup of fresh tea.

Seeing the tea was like feeling comforted by her parents after having dealt with bullies. There was a sense of reassurance that things would be fine, making Valessanria smile shyly at the maid. With such emotions, she placed the saucer and the empty cup on the metal tray before taking the new saucer and cup.

Grabbing the handle of the cup, she could already feel the comforting warmth of the tea.

"I am pleased that the tea is to your liking," Yi's eyes were playful as they looked at her like an adult would view a child impressed with something simple. He then turned his head to look at a nearby maid. "Prepare a tray with various teas and accessories for Lady Knight, so she can take it with her when she leaves."

The bunny girl that had served her curtsied, "Yes, Master." She walked several steps back before turning around and making her way to the side room where the tea had been prepared.

For a second, Valessandria imagined a flicker of blue light or some shadow, making her blink. Trying to think what could create such light made her pause. Still, she couldn't help but internally chuckle, thinking she had allowed work to catch up to her and make her hallucinate from exhaustion.

Valessandria could hear William nagging her about not getting enough rest.

"I do not know what I can tell you," Yi shrugged and raised his hands. Placing a hand on his chest, "I was just as startled as you to see what was in front of the pyramid, though I thought the structure was always there."

Hearing Yi say that they thought the pyramid had always existed there made Valessandria raise an eyebrow and look at the young noble. But the young noble's expression didn't betray anything, as though he genuinely believed his own words. Yi was either a skilled liar or unfamiliar with this part of the Kingdom. This only made her confused about the young man's origins.

Sensing her confusion, Yi said, "My family has been in isolation for quite some time, so we lack a lot of common knowledge." He laughed, "I admit to being surprised with how things have changed from what I was told growing up."

"My Master's ancestors preferred to keep themselves away from political conflicts, wanting to keep their people safe." The black-haired woman calling herself Helania said as she took another sip of her tea.

"Forgive my late introduction. I am called Queen. My Master's security is under my purview." The white-haired woman in the leather outfit that seemed to hug her body just a tad too much placed her hand on her bountiful chest. "We owe everything to our Master and his family, who have provided us with everything -- even our mind, body, and souls. So I hope that you understand our circumstances."

Valessandria couldn't help but feel a little enthralled by the appearance of all the beautiful women, though now she knew that underneath their looks held a deadly power. It helped to keep her mind from not being distracted by their ethereal beauty. She knew they wouldn't even give it a second thought to tear her apart if she stepped out of line. Despite wearing armor, a cold sweat covered her body.

Pulling her thoughts away from the two women, Valessandria turned her attention back to the young lord. He was now being fed fruit by the red-haired attendant. "Yi, did you see anything that could help explain what happened?" She tried to block out the memory of what she witnessed, the twisting of limbs and faces forever displaying ghastly horror never meant to be seen by mortals on this plane of existence. Valessandria took a quick moment to pray for them before taking another sip of tea.

Valessandria knew she'd need to speak to those in charge of Leaf Village and warn them not to allow the villagers to see what lay beyond the foreboding pyramid.

Yi slowly shook his head as he chewed the grape.

"We were equally appalled by such a sight," Helania continued to sit with the regal grace of a noble woman recounting their day at a tea party.

Valessandria nearly laughed at Helania's words because of the woman's calm demeanor. The woman's mannerism was a stark contrast to Valessandria's frazzled and erratic control over her body, which felt like it would crumble at any moment. Even now, she could feel manic laughter bubbling up from deep within her, kept at bay due to her training and professionalism.

Moving the tea close to her mouth and breathing in the smell helped her from emptying her stomach -- flashes of what she saw invading her thoughts. Suppose someone told her everything past meeting the young noble and all the bloodcurdling events that transpired afterward was a nightmare. In that case, she'd believe it in a second. She wished for all of it to be a fabrication of her imagination, but even then, it was doubtful that the smell would ever leave her mind.

"Whatever performed such an act was never meant for this world," Valessandria shuddered, praying that they didn't have anything else to worry about besides the Overflow.

"So you are the Lady Knight of Illumin Academic City," Yi shifted his body, placing his elbow on the armrest and resting his head on his hand. His eyes twinkled as though Valessandria had caught his attention in some way.

Feeling a chill run up her back, having gained such a person's attention, Valessandria reminded herself that it was essential to promote the City since more nobles would mean a stronger position against external political influences. Their City always felt on the edge of being swallowed up by the Kindom or Empire, two of the largest forces in the immediate area.

Taking a sip of the tea and gaining some courage, Valessandria nodded, "That is correct."

"I am unfamiliar with such a place," Yi leaned forward, smiling slightly as though sensing her hesitancy.

Coming to terms with the young lord not seeming to leave the subject alone and knowing she'd have needed to promote her City anyways, Valessandria attempted a cheerful smile while straightening her back. "Though we are within the territory of the Kingdom, Illumin is able to retain sovereignty due to the value we offer to all the regional nations."

Yi's eyes widened slightly as he opened his mouth to eat another grape fed by the stunning red-haired maid.

Seeing that the young lord wasn't going to add anything, she continued, "Though there are other similar Academic Cities on the continent, we pride ourselves in how we refuse to discriminate against the financial and political backgrounds of our students. As the head of the Disciplinary Committee, I can assure you of this fact."

The white-haired woman named Queen rolled her eyes. Looking at Valessandria, Queen pointed a finger, "That sounds nice, but I assume you have no way to defend yourself if the Kingdom wants to take over. So, I have no doubt that you cater to those of noble heritage." She snickered at the lunacy as she leaned back into the couch.

"While I may not have phrased it in such a manner, I do agree that Queen has a point," Helania looked at Queen as though chastising the woman before turning to look at Valessandria. "I imagine you provide some service that allows you to shield yourself, stopping your small city from being consumed?"

Hearing both women call her out on the longevity of the City, Valessandria couldn't help but think of the numerous lords and ladies inside the Academy who gave her headaches with their mentality.

"While you are correct, our Academy being one of the best, we offer those who originate from other nations an opportunity to better themselves. Those same students return to their respective homes, benefiting the local government organizations." Valessandria took a sip of the tea to soothe her mind and moisten her throat. "In addition to our academic abilities, the Adventurer's Guild has been a great boon, placing one of their branches inside the City."

"This means that any acts of aggression on the City would also be directed to the Guild," Yi said. His eyes bore straight into Valessandria's soul -- trying to find any falsehoods said.

Valessandria paused in her explanation, seeing that the young lord was contemplating something.

"I admit that the Adventurer's Guild was not something I was familiar with, but as I keep hearing their name, I sense that they contribute far more than I could ever have realized." Yi stroked his chin slowly as he thought out loud.

Queen moved forward, no longer appearing to lounge on the sofa, "My Master, I do not think such an organization could be so powerful that they would be able to hold back nations with military power." She waved a hand at the idea and at Valessandria.

Helania placed a hand on her cheek, "I suspect that the value of the Guild is how they are an organization that provides work to protect the surrounding area and stimulate the local economy. It would be difficult for all countries to move against Illumin, so any that do would risk having the Guild pull out from that nation. Such a decision would likely cause great economic turmoil."

Despite the analysis not being anything extraordinary, Valessandria couldn't help but stare at the three. For a moment, she felt like she was back in Illumin and listening to teachers debating a topic. She couldn't understand how no one knew about such a noble family until now.

In her mind, she could hear the President ordering her to do whatever was necessary to bring the young lord to their Academy and become a student. Then the voice of the Treasurer, complaining about how expenses were increasing and their need to bring in more students from wealthy families.

Valessandria had a sinking suspicion that if she came back without the young noble, she would face disciplinary action by the Student Council.

Lifting the tea cup from the saucer, Valessandria wasn't surprised to see it tremble slightly in her grip.

"We also have many businesses of varying sizes which may offer great potential for your family," Valessandria did everything in her power to smile and become a vessel for any diety connected to merchants. She prayed they would answer her call and help her through such an ordeal. "Thanks to our low tax rate, below what any nation offers, businesses are continually streaming into our City to conduct trade. Such an environment allows for students interested in business to gain internship opportunities that would be unimaginable anywhere else."

Valessandria looked at the young lord before slowly checking the mood of the two senior attendants, who seemed to have a significant influence on the young lord.

The silence in the room began to grow as Valessandria fought to keep herself calm. She hoped her face wasn't sweating to such a severe degree, though her body under the armor was beginning to warm.

"After you explain the offer and all the benefits, you need to stay quiet. The first to speak is the one that loses." She heard the Treasurer's voice after a Council meeting at one of the nearby cafes.

"People often let silence bother them, making them say things and offering more benefits -- beyond what already exists. So whenever you do a deal, make sure to know when to shut up." The Treasurer stabbed her finger at her expecting Valessandria to be someone who would make such an error.

While Valessandria waited for the young noble to make a decision, she hated how her face felt as though it was going to be frozen in place and how the muscles holding the smile felt like they were cramping.

"If I were interested in becoming a student at your Academy, what would I need to do in order to get accepted?" Yi looked at Valessandria as though admission into the Academy wasn't something he worried about -- already anticipating his acceptance.

Hearing the confidence in Yi's voice, Valessandria nearly clenched her teeth but was successful at stopping herself. She looked at the young lord's grin, realizing that he had spoken in such a nonchalant manner to garner a reaction from her.

Valessandria wanted to yell at the young noble for him to be more considerate of her position as she felt the eyes that drilled into her -- waiting to pounce for any excuse and sign of hostility. She felt like a mouse being eyed by a cat, playing around with her as it thought about whether to eat her.

"Bring our guest something to eat. She looks a little pale." Yi turned his head to command one of the numerous maids around them.

A wave of dizziness overcame Valessandria, witnessing the young noble act as if he was concerned about her. She wanted to yell at him about how he was the cause of her emotional distress but thought better about it. Slowly breathing in, she let the air out as she prayed for any of the gods to give her strength during such a trial.

"If you are interested in enrolling in our academy, we have numerous tiers based on the student's capabilities and life circumstances," Valessandria put a smile back on her face. However, she could already feel the corners of her mouth beginning to twitch.

Yi stared at her as he opened his mouth to eat a ruby-colored strawberry.

"The tiers are not just based on the financial situation but to help us determine what level the student should be placed. Some students may be skilled relative to their immediate peers, but they would struggle against a student who has been trained since a young age. This is why we want students to be grouped with others similar to their skill level." Valessandria struggled to not feel as though she were pouring water into an endless void as the words spilled from her mouth.

Despite feeling as though she were being pressured, Valessandria congratulated herself on being able to maintain her calm demeanor.

"I do not think that our Master needs to worry about whether others will be more skilled than him," Helania's eyes smiled as she looked at Valessandria. "You could even say our Master is one of a kind."

Valessandria raised her cup to take a sip. Feeling better, she looked at the attendant, "I have no doubt that Yi would perform well. The assessment is just a formality to make sure that students receive the best treatment at our Academy." She couldn't help but imagine the attendant as an overprotective mother who wanted only the best for their child. Unfortunately, it wasn't something foreign to her with the number of nobles she had to deal with regularly.

She was glad that none of the maids in the room directed any glares at her for her refusal to acknowledge the young lord as being above any other student. As the words flowed out of her mouth, for a moment, she worried that they would pounce on her in retribution.

"I also feel that our meeting is fortuitous since our open enrollment would be opening soon," Valessandria couldn't help but let out a laugh. "This is when we are at our busiest due to the large number of kids hoping to be accepted at Illumin's Academy. You would just need to take the assessment in order to meet the requirements." She nearly said if the young noble would be accepted after the assessment, which many fail due to the difficulty.

Yi sat in his chair, merely listening to her words. He turned to look at Helania, who shared a look with the young lord.

Helania turned her head to look at Valessandria, "Due to the sensitive nature of our Master's family, I would like to ask if attendants would be allowed to join." She smiled as she placed a hand on her bosom, "I have no doubt about the security inside the City, but our Master's family has a lineage that spans far back through the ages. With this, we would prefer having ourselves escort and tend to his needs."

Hearing the woman's demand, a cold bead of sweat when down her back. Taking a moment to gain control over herself, Valessandria asked, "How many attendants are you hoping to bring in addition to Yi? I just want to ensure you understand that an excessive cost is associated with nobles allowing even a single staff member."

The one named Queen glared at her.

Leaving the cup on the saucer, Valessandria raised the free hand and waved it at the white-haired woman. "This is not punitive in nature. We require a premium placed on the noble because Yi would be required to live inside a house instead of in the dormitories. The house size would increase depending on the number of people your Master brings. On top of that, there are a limited number of spots for such locations. The costs increase exponentially to prevent an incident of all housing units being taken."

"So it would not be an issue for me to bring my attendants," Yi raised an eyebrow. "I would also think it would not be an issue to rotate them out?" He added.

Despite having felt under pressure the entire time since entering the room, hiding such an existence as the young noble, hearing that her words didn't have any impact on Yi confused her. She didn't know if his family was extremely wealthy or not, but how he asked her made Valessandria think that money wouldn't be an issue. Thinking of the cost of tuition for a noble and how much costs increased as attendants were added, on top of the housing costs and any additional fees, created an image of a small nation's annual budget casually tossed away for convenience purposes.

"Just to be clear, based on the number of years most students require before they graduate, the annual tuition for a noble would be 625 gold coins using the current rates used by Illumin Academic City." Valessandria took a moment to remember what the current rate was for an IAC gold coin. "A single ounce of gold, which is what most coins weigh, is around 200 IAC. Compared to other nations, our currency is extremely stable." Clearing her throat, "This is just for the noble and not factoring costs such as room and board."

Valessandria looked at Helania and Queen to ensure they understood how expensive it would be for even a single person to attend their school. Depending on the size of the house, there were even nobles who would struggle to pay the tuition fee.

Helania and Queen stared back at Valessandria as though the numbers she quoted weren't an issue, making her feel as if her sanity was slowly seeping out of her ears, dribbling down her body.

Taking a deep breath, she tried to explain the situation better. Turning to the young noble, "Yi..., my Lord, though I may not have direct experience with costs associated with students, especially nobles when it comes to calculating costs for attending our Academy, it would not be unreasonable to estimate that my Lord may end up paying several million IACs. This is not something that can be scoffed at, being serious numbers for even ducal families."

Valessandria raised the cup of tea with trembling hands to her lips, attempting to imagine such figures in her mind. With several million IACs, it wouldn't be outlandish to think an individual would be able to build a large portion of the Kingdom's capital. What made things worse as she tried to slow her breathing was how the millions were how much the young Lord would be obligated to pay each year. Her mind felt detached from her body, floating towards the skies where the gods lived.

If someone had presented her with such a bill, fainting would be the least of her worries.

"I would also like to inform you that you need to make a sizable deposit due to the amount of work involved in setting up your living space. This would be non-negotiable due to the considerable risk on our end. Even royalty would be unable to avoid such costs." She wondered if the deposit would get a reaction from the young noble.

Yi placed a hand on his chin, his eyes staring at an empty area across from him.

Seeing how the young noble behaved, Valessandria nearly launched herself from the couch and jumped up and down with joy. She even struggled to keep the corners of her mouth from twitching into a large grin. For the first time during her encounter with the mysterious young noble and his attendants, she felt as though she were on top of the situation.

Placing a hand over her mouth as she lightly coughed, "I understand having to pay such a large deposit would be difficult..."

"Would there be any issues if we were to pay for it now?" Helania's face had a faint shadow of a smile.

Stopped as she was explaining her empathy towards the young noble, Valessandria paused before staring vacantly at the woman. She was sure that she had misheard Helania. "Sorry?"

"Would payment in full be an issue?" Helania asked as she raised her cup to take a sip as her eyes observed the Lady Knight. Helania's eyes were like a giant serpent slithering out of the shadows, catching its prey off guard as it enjoyed the smell of fear flowing from the shivering creature.

Valessandria held a closed hand to cover her mouth as she coughed into it. She couldn't help but feel as though an oily viscous black tar was slowly creeping up her body as she sank into its depths while under the gaze of the woman. Coughing again, she tried to get the sticky fluid to clear in her throat.

"You would like to pay the deposit?" Valessandria felt her smile beginning to wilt like a flower under the intense heat of the desert's sun.

Helania shook her head slightly, her flowing black hair casually swaying in the air. "We would like to pay the full amount." The last few words slowly flowed like a sea of fog engulfing a small seaside town into its eldritch clutches.

What made it worse was seeing the slow smile that grew. Even if it wasn't large, the slight smile was haunting for Valessandria. A chill slowly traveled down her spine like someone had dropped an ice cube inside her armor. She involuntarily shivered.

Without waiting for Valessandria to answer, Helania raised a hand to one of the maids. This time a cute dog beast woman, her fur short and brown with black spots, stepped forward. "Yes, Mistress."

"Bring the security chest inside the Master's sleeping chambers to the Lady Knight." Helania tenderly ordered the woman before giving a gentle wave of her delicate hand.

Bowing to Helania, the maid headed towards what was likely the main bed chamber. Another maid, who appeared to be a human girl with long flowing brown hair, joined the dog beast woman.

While Valessandria sat, feeling as though she were fading from existence due to the absurdity of everything, the bunny girl who served her the tea earlier came out with a tray. The difference was how instead of just standing next to where she sat, the maid went around the couch to reach the table in the middle.

As the tray was placed on the table, Valessandria's eyes widened to see what was presented on the tray. She couldn't help but drool at the mounds of various types of meats, some delicately sliced to such a degree that they were nearly translucent. There were also sausages, neatly cut into smaller chunks with a small wooden spear stabbed into each one. Even thick slices of bacon were presented.

Seeing how juicy the meat was, Valessandria couldn't help but think of times when she ate at official dinners to entertain donors. She didn't believe the food served could even come close to what existed on the platter.

"Please let me know if you wish to have more or if there were other types of meats you would care to try." The bunny girl cutely curtseyed before making her way back.

Wanting to try some of the food, Valessandria reached out to take one of the tiny wooden spears.

Immediately upon lifting the sausage, it was clear that the meat wasn't dry. She tried maintaining her composure as she placed the food into her mouth. Upon tasting the item, she first noticed the smoky flavor mixed well with the juices. There were hints of herbs and spices inside, likely mixed together when making the sausage.

While eating the food, Valessandria didn't notice the large metal chest carried by the dainty voluptuous maids.

Having removed one of her armored gloves, not wanting to get it greasy, Valessandria held one of the thick slices of bacon, enjoying the taste of the fatty meat. Her eyes then noticed the movement of the maid and the massive chest they were carrying.

The two maids slowly placed the chest on the table.

The table protested under the immense weight of the chest.

Seeing the chest be several feet tall and nearly twice as wide, Valessandria began violently coughing.

With one hand covering her mouth and the other pounding her chest, Valessandria tried to clear her throat.

"Please," The voice of the bunny maid called out to her, offering a tall glass of water.

Desperately grabbing the cup, Valessandria poured the contents down her throat as quickly as possible.

While Valessandria was attempting to recover from her coughing fit, the maids slowly began undoing the latches on the chest.

Finishing the water, Valessandria coughed a few more times until her body felt better. She took a few deep breaths to make sure everything was good.

"I apologize for surprising you," Yi said.

Valessandria snapped her eyes to look at the young Lord, scanning his face for any signs of deception. Her face was bright red, never before having caused such an ugly scene in front of others. If others had seen her, she was sure they would've snickered at her, especially the nobles at the Academy.

"Please. Have another cup." Yi motioned his hand for the maid to bring another cup of water for Valessandria.

The bunny girl maid returned with another glass of water. "Here you go," She presented the clear container with her hands instead of on a tray like with the tea.

"Thank you," Valessandria looked to the maid and then to Yi, her face still red.

This time, Valessandria took her time to drink the water. No longer feeling as though she were choking on the food and desperately drinking the water to clear the blockage, she noticed how there wasn't as strong of a taste -- compared to what she'd consumed in the past. Holding the glass in front of her, Valessandria raised the cup so she could get a better view of the liquid.

The first thing she noticed about the water was how clear it was. Looking through the water, though it was slightly distorted due to the liquid, she could see Helania on the other side.

Turning her, Valessandria frowned while furrowing her brow at Yi, "How did you get such clean water? It must have cost a fortune to have such water readily available."

Valessandria understood that the inn was set up to welcome nobles and other wealthy clients to stay overnight, but even for such a business in a somewhat remote village made, getting such high-quality water was virtually impossible. They'd need to invest in expensive filtration systems rivaling what's available in the capital, making her suspect that Yi had obtained the water through different channels.

Helania raised a hand.

The two maids on either side of the large chest raised the lid.

Noticing the movement, Valessandria turned her head to look at the chest and nearly dropped the glass in her hands. The drink was shakily placed on the table next to the teacup to be safe.

Inside the chest was wealth beyond anything seen before in one place; an unimaginable number of platinum bars shone from the room's light. The room faded into the background of her mind, staring at the wealth of precious metal that even Kings would struggle to quickly amass in a single place without great difficulty. She licked her lips as sweat slowly flowed down her cheek. Staring at the stacks upon stacks of platinum, she unconsciously raised her hand before realizing what she was doing and pulled it back. The amount of platinum was enough to tempt and enchant anyone who had faced difficulties in the past.

Valessandria shakily turned her head towards Helania and then to Yi. Her mouth gaped open like a fish out of water. In her mind, she barely remembered how many IACs an ounce of platinum was worth on the exchange markets. She vaguely guessed it was over 900 IACs per ounce of platinum -- but she suspected it was greater than that.

Yi had a slight grin as though expecting her to react in such a manner.

"Based on my projections using your estimates, I believe this is enough?"

A loud metal clank rang throughout the room as the maids closed the chest.

Valessandria jumped, her eyes flying toward the chest, which concealed enough platinum to make even the Empire waver. Slowly, she looked at Helania. Each of Valessandria's eyes was as large as the saucer beneath the teacup. Even after witnessing what she had seen inside the chest, it was a struggle to comprehend what had happened. No longer able to see the contents, she couldn't help but question if what was seen was real.

To be close to the chest made her think of the ancient ruins of civilizations long ago forgotten close to Illumin, hiding mysteries incomprehensible to any in the modern era. Myths described a city filled with mystical knowledge and endless riches. Despite the dangers, adventurers would explore the area with the hopes of discovering wealth as significant as what she'd just been allowed to see.

Helania waited patiently.

"Yes. I struggle to imagine that such an amount would be insufficient." Valessandria felt the words clumsily tumble from her mouth, her mind struggling to process what was happening.

"As mentioned, my family is quite ancient. Instead of dealing with local currencies, we often trade with precious metals. But with how long we will be staying inside of the Academy, using the local currency may be easier. It also reassures me to know that the IAC is stable." Yi cradled a fresh cup of tea in his hands, the steam wafting towards his face.

"Of course! As a representative of the Academy, I can assure you that any amount remaining after deducting expenses will be converted into IACs for you to use during your stay." This time, Valessandria felt like the smile she wore was several times more painful due to the idea of needing to transport the ludicrous amount of wealth contained inside the chest, with only the trainees they brought.

Valessandria may have been willing to charge into danger, fighting the Empire, the idea of transporting wealth that could devastate nations to be nightmarish. She had no doubt that during the entire way back to the Academy, she'd be unable to peacefully rest, worried about being attacked by bandits or monsters.

Even the greedy treasurer would sweat buckets from having to be responsible for such an absurd amount of money. An amount so tremendous that revealing it would likely cause scum from black markets to be hired with the objective of stealing from the Academy.

The only relief was how not all the platinum would need to be held inside the Academy's vaults. After taking out the tuition and associated fees, everything else would be returned to the young noble.

Valessandria couldn't help but marvel at how the young Lord was unaffected by the wealth he carried with him.

A chill was felt from deep within her bones, remembering the viscous black tar of murderous intent which clung to her upon receiving the wrath of all of the young Lord's attendants. Not even an instant would be necessary for his people to eviscerate the audacious individual. There was a brief moment of pity for anyone foolish enough to bare their fangs at him.

Raising a hand to her neck, Valessandria remembered the hallucination she had experienced.

"I hope that all the immediate issues are handled?" Yi pulled Valessandria from her deep thoughts.

Jumping, Valessandria nervously laughed, "Yes, my Lord. You have my assurance that the chest will arrive safely and be handed to the department managing financial matters."

"Wonderful!" Yi passed the cup to the red-haired maid, who had remained silent during the entire discussion. "I look forward to attending the enrollment process. The Academy truly sounds like a citadel of knowledge in this dark world."

Sensing that she was being dismissed, Valessandria stood up.

"Please, make sure to take samples of the different teas we often carry while we travel," Yi snapped his fingers.

The bunny girl maid emerged from the preparation room holding a large box, nearly half the size of the chest, filled to the brim with platinum bars. Reaching Valessandria, she presented the gift.

Even with a casual glance, Valessandria recognized the expert craftmanship necessary to decorate such a box. On top of the wooden box was a tall eldritch tower with what appeared to be clouds on the bottom. The clouds had enough details to make her feel as if they were gently passing by the peculiar and indescribable structure, which hinted to have existed far before human memories. Floating next to the tower were intricately carved symbols of a star and moon.

Valessandria couldn't help but feel she'd seen the symbols from somewhere. Still, she couldn't pinpoint where the memory originated from.

Han watched as the maids carried away the chest, following the Lady Knight out of his room, the image of the woman who behaved so arrogantly now appearing to be nothing more than a corporate worker doing their work despite not enjoying the interaction with their clients. He covered his mouth, chuckling at the image.

Pouring out his will, it wasn't long before he had a three-dimensional mental image of the room. He then thought about where they all existed in their current reality. With a slight shift, they were now slightly out of alignment. Even if someone were to use magic to listen in, it would be impossible. At the same time, anyone entering would just see an empty room.

"Master, you should have allowed us to deal with that woman," Brittany ground her teeth, raising a clenched fist.

Even with this ability, Han could sense the mana around Brittany vibrate and synchronize with her emotions. If he wasn't as powerful as he was, her rage would likely feel like he was drowning in crude oil -- the liquid clung to his body.

"Though I agree that woman acted rudely towards Our Master, you are acting a bit much." Queen glanced from where she relaxed on the couch, one of her feet placed on the expensive furniture. "I have no doubt that she knows where the line is now."

Back straight, even while sitting, presenting a professional air of a high executive of an elite mega-corporation, Helania nodded ever so slightly. "Queen is correct. It was good to put her in her place, but anything further would dishonor our Master."

Brittany immediately pulled back her anger, though her frown still remained.

"We had our fun, but I agree that any more would have been too much. Now that we will be located inside Illumin, I see no reason to intentionally make enemies." Han leaned back in his seat. "Our point was clearly made, and I think the Lady Knight will remember that."

Regardless of how suspicious he had behaved during a crisis, Han didn't care for how the Lady Knight acted. However, he suspected her background contributed to how she addressed him. She reminded him of the type that chased after justice, regardless of the criminal's political backing.

While it was good to have people with such dedication, Han had a suspicion that she would inevitably step on too many toes. The Lady Knight may have painted an image of independence with the Academic City and its neighbors. Still, based on what he remembered about history on Earth, such freedom came with a price. It was barely held together to become a balancing act.

"My Master, would you care for me to have one of my shadows watch over her?" Queen removed her foot from the couch and leaned forward while straightening her back.

Han shook his head and brushed the thought with a wave of his hand.

Turning his head to look out the window, the black sky was clearly seen.

Standing, Han looked at his three beautiful women, thinking he had worked hard enough and deserved a reward. He also liked the idea of washing away the annoyance he felt dealing with the Lady Knight.

As though sensing his mood, Brittany moved to his side and wrapped her arms around his. "Master, you look tired after such a long day. Allow me to help you relax."

Not wanting Brittany to gain a headstart, both Helania and Queen stood.

Helania smoothly looked at Brittany and how she clung to Han's arm. "I understand your enthusiasm, but we also want to show Master how much we care for him and desire to celebrate his accomplishment."

"I would hate for you to not take care of duties," Brittany grinned at the two women. "For me, my only reason to exist is to serve my Master, but the two of you have other duties."

Both Helania and Queen stared at Brittany with flat expressions.

Blinking her eyes brightly, "Was I incorrect?" Brittany placed a hand to her mouth as she rested her head on Han's shoulder.

"Brittany," Han quietly spoke her name.

Queen's expression loosened slightly upon hearing Han chastise Brittany.

"We have not had much time together, so I want to be with the three of you." Han smiled as he gently patted Brittany's arm, knowing she was merely teasing the two and not meaning anything with her comments.

Han sidestepped his way out of the shared area in consideration of Brittany, who was attached to him.

Helania and Queen followed them while the maids began clearing the table of the cups and food. Neither of the two women hurried, though Queen had a slight smile -- anticipating what would come.

"Please have a wonderful night, Master and Mistresses," A maid curtseyed as Han entered the bed chamber.

Once the four of them were inside, the maid gracefully closed the door, allowing them some privacy.

Han looked at the bed, which had a canopy and curtains neatly tied up but could be quickly undone to isolate the interior. On either side were bedside tables where a mana lamp helped to light the room. Compared to the room which Elis used, his was significantly larger, with the bed being massive. He couldn't help but imagine that even Anacolis would be able to comfortably rest on it as she cuddled with him.

"I see we have plenty of room to enjoy one another's company." Han moved to the bed before looking at Helania and Queen.

He enjoyed how even the calm and professional Helania's cheeks were slightly pink. It made him think of an innocent woman who was not honest with her feelings.

There was pressure between his legs as his member attempted to straighten.

Brittany released herself from Han, intercepting his view of Helania and Queen. "Master, please allow me to show you what you can expect." She gracefully removed the sheer shirt, allowing an easy view of her breasts pushed up by the corset she wore. With a quick motion of her fingers, the skirt she had gently glided down her long legs before resting on the wooden floor.

Seeing Brittany only wearing a corset and how it made her legs appear longer than usual, Han gazed at her sensual form dripping with eager sexual energy. Compared to the innocent appeal of Helania, Brittany's forward attitude was also enjoyable.

Han took several steps back -- feeling the bed against his legs, he sat on it.

Brittany walked over to where Han sat, her bare hips hypnotically swaying with each step. With one hand, she gently pushed Han's shoulder.

Laying on the bed, Han looked up at the canopy before feeling her hands start to methodically undo his pants and slide them off him. He felt his member straighten like a flag pole upon being released from its prison, engorged with energy.

Soon, he could feel Brittany's warm breath as she sat on her knees in front of his groin -- with her face inches from him.

Feeling how her breathing sped up as she took in his scent made Han's pulse quicken in anticipation. Even though he knew what would be happening next, there was still a rush of anticipation since he couldn't see her next movement as he lay on his back and stared toward the ceiling.

There was a rustling of clothing, indicating that Helania and Queen were beginning to shed their outfits. He heard clasps being undone and leather sliding against milky white cold dead skin. As each item was taken off, the sound of them falling to the ground was heard.

As his mind imagined how the two looked without their clothes, he gasped upon feeling himself being taken inside a warm and wet environment -- a long muscular textured tongue slowly sliding against his pulsating rod as the environment invited him deeper inside like a train being sucked into a long undulating mountain tunnel.

Helania watched as Brittany's head slowly moved away from their Master's groin while still having his member inside her mouth. There was a loud, desperate, and hungry slurping noise as though Brittany were slurping a fruity frozen dessert.

Thinking of her Master's pulsating rod inside her mouth made Helania begin to salivate, her warm breath flowing in and out in time with Brittany's movement. A part of her was jealous, knowing the woman would enjoy feeling the viscous fluid squirt deep into her mouth. Brittany would receive the blessing from their Creator, pleasured as the fluid clung to her tongue before traveling down her throat. The warmth spread throughout her body from the divine milky liquid.

Helania looked at Queen, seeing saliva drooping from the mouth of the undread -- dripping onto her pale porcelain breasts.

Though Brittany and Queen made Helania envious, with how they were unconcerned about how their Creator would view them. For Helania, she feared revealing her innocence and desires due to her worries about her Master no longer feeling he could depend on her. Helania was her Master's rock, so she presented a professional image.

Each time Brittany acted spoiled in front of their Master, Helania felt a tightening in her chest. Deep down, she also wanted to be spoiled. She wanted to feel his skin pressed against her body, taste his lips desperately kissing hers and hear him tenderly call out her name.

Helania jumped slightly, feeling a hand on her shoulder.

Turning her head, she saw that it was Queen.

Queen stared at Helania, "Let us worship our Master. She cannot have too much of a headstart." The thoughts flowed into Helania's mind through their mental connection as Floor Protectors.

A corner of her lips raised as Helania nodded, the fears in her thoughts fading away like the mist after the sun began to rise.

Taking a deep breath, Helania moved toward the bed with Queen.

Brittany didn't even notice that the two of them reached the bed, so lost in pleasure from having their Master inside her mouth. She even wrapped her arms around their Master's legs to help her take him deeper inside as the wet draining sound continued.

Even though Brittany made Helania feel competitive, it didn't change her respect towards her Master's personal maid, who wholeheartedly devoted herself to him. Just seeing how Brittany attended to him, how she fed food into his mouth and helped to keep his mental health in mind, Helania could feel a sense of relief that the person that meant more than anything, in reality, was being cared for.

Placing her right knee on the bed and crawling on the bed at the same time as Queen, Helania couldn't help but smile at her Master's face. She didn't even think that he noticed that Queen and she were now on either side of him. Her Master -- lost in the pleasure of Brittany's powerful suctioning force, his hips lifting up occasionally.

Looking up at Queen, who followed suit, Helania glanced at the upper clothing their Master still wore.

Queen grinned as her hands began to attack the clasps for each layer of clothing on him.

Her Master blinked a few times, noticing Queen undressing him. He turned to look at Helania, his eyes slightly unfocused and dazed. A smile slowly formed as he raised a hand.

Instinctively, Helania moved closer and soon felt the warmth of her Master.

"My Helania," Her Master used his thumb to gently stroke her cheek.

Raising her hands, Helania cupped them over his as she closed her eyes. She nuzzled against his hand, her skin happily tingling all over. "Master," She moaned in bliss.

Reacting to her feelings, it was soon that her breasts began to throb and feel heavy as she was aroused. Her breathing became erratic as she slowly turned her head, letting her Master's hand brush against her lips. The scent of his hands was intoxicating, and as she kissed her Master's palm, she parted her mouth and extended her tongue.

Helania slowly moved her Master's hand, licking his flesh from the base of his palm to his ring finger. Inserting it inside her, savoring his flesh, she couldn't help but seductively moan as the room warmed. Her skin felt as though it were burning, and the taste of him was the only thing that could quench the lustful inferno inside.

Helania placed her free hand on her breasts, not even noticing the tiny beads of sweat forming on her smooth skin. Groping herself and slowly applying more pressure, her passionate sighs escaped her mouth -- now sucking on her beloved Master's fingers. Her tongue wrapped around the digit like a snake capturing its prey.

Slowly Helania pulled the finger from her mouth, drool dribbling the side of her lips before slowly reaching her breasts.

She was barely able to register Queen's face buried in her Master's chest, kissing him. There was a similar drunk expression on Queen's face, lost in his taste and scent.

But even seeing Queen licking and kissing her Master, Helania's mind wouldn't allow any other thought to enter as she began kissing his forearm.

"Master," Helania moaned as she continued down his arm.

She couldn't believe how she was able to maintain her sanity whenever she was close to her Master. With each kiss, she only thought about how much she cared for him -- each mark on his skin was proof of her love. Even if she was unable to heal her Master from his pain, Helania hungered to be his emotional pillar.

Her eyes drunkenly turned to see her Master -- now covered by Queen's legs as Queen sat on his face. Both her hands squeezed her breasts as her eyes stared at the canopy above them -- her mouth open and overflowing with moans and pants.

Helania dumbly watched her Master lick Queen's lips, his tongue timed to the moans of the undead woman.

Pouting from being unable to see her beloved Creator's face, Helania's eyes scanned her Master's body before eventually landing on Brittany. The woman still slid their Master down her throat with single-minded abandon.

"My turn," Helania immaturely whined before getting on her hands and knees.

Her black hair cascaded down the side of her shoulder as she walked like an animal toward where Brittany continued to guzzle down his erect rod.

Already, white viscous liquid drizzled down the side of the shaft. Upon seeing the untouched milk of her Master, Helania's eyes widened like a predator spotting its prey. Slinking closer, she slid one arm over her Master and lowered her head.

Though the scent of her Master was intense on his skin, the closer she moved to the white fluid, her nose was filled with the concentrated exalted odor. As if entranced by the fragrance, Helania didn't even notice pushing past Brittany with her tongue fully extended with desperate desires to slurp the precious thick white essence.

Brittany half-heartedly grumbled, like an animal growling at an interloper -- warning what it saw as a scavenger away from its food. But soon, Helania was ignored as though any additional effort was unnecessary and wasted when something more desirable was in front of her.

With her tongue, Helania slowly licked up the pulsating shaft -- not wanting to lose any of the precious liquid. Taking it into her mouth, sparks flew inside her mind. It was electrifying as she felt fluids squirting out of her. Her body shuddered before arching her back -- releasing a loud animalistic moan.

Helania's pupils became reptilic slits as she realized what needed to be done. There was nothing that could stand in her way, her groin aching for stimulation and pleasure that only her Master could provide.

With one hand, Helania roughly grabbed Brittany's head.

Pulled out of her trance, Brittany squirmed as she used both hands to grip Helania's forearm, her fingers turning white while attempting to escape the vice-like grip of the Floor Protector.

Helania's mind was in a fog. Her body hungered after tasting the fluid of her Master, and any civilized behavior was ripped out to be replaced with burning primal carnal desire. Though her existence hadn't been long, she felt like someone who had traveled through an endless desert under the blistering sun without water, and now she'd seen through the haze signs of life. The air was filled with irresistible moisture, and she'd not let anything stand between her and salvation.

A snarl escaped her mouth as she pulled Brittany off the erect engorged pulsating monolith. Her eyes gazed at the source of her passion, her ears not hearing the flood of venomous curses hurled at her by the shrieking infuriated maid.

Mounting her Master, Helania leaked overflowing amounts of viscous vaginal juices onto the steaming rod, which would soon pierce into her. She took quick short breaths while lowering herself, hearing the blood pounding and coursing through her body as it prepared to receive the gift. An enormous smile split her face as she fantasized about herself being spread open as it penetrated deep inside her.

"Yes, Master," Helania tousled her hair with one hand, dominated by the feeling of pleasure as her Master entered her welcoming embrace. A long moan drifted out of her mouth as her lips grazed the head of the monolith, gradually moving them aside the lower she moved her lower body. The undulating wall proceeded to envelop the pulsating rod as it slid past the slippery flesh.

Helania felt torn between plunging her Master into her and allowing herself to savor the slow pleasure.

She moved her hand down from her hair, sliding across a slick face -- burning from the fire within. Sticking out her tongue, Helania licked her fingers as she felt herself being gored. Her mind was a hurricane of emotions, having been so long since the last time she was able to partake in his love. Gasps escaped her throat, words being inadequate to express the joy she felt the deeper she felt it enter her.

Sitting on her Master, feeling his entire length inside her, Helania couldn't help but take a moment to relish the sensation.

Uncontrolled, rebelling against her wishes and desiring more of the water of life, Helania's hips gradually began grinding forward and backward. Each thrust of her Master inside her making her gasp and moan, her skin feeling alive like never before. Each time her hands touched her skin, waves of emotions rippled out.

Moving both hands, Helania began to squeeze her breasts as though she would spray milk from them. The sensation, an eruption of adoration and lust -- multiplied by how she thirsted for her Master. "Master, please," sucking in air through an open mouth, her sight obscured by a wondrous sight as though she stared at a sea of stars.

Reality flowed differently as Helania continually thrust her hips while riding on top of her Creator. She felt as though she were merging with a river of consciousness, never before experienced by her. Images floated into her thoughts, countless worlds, some peaceful while others overwhelmed with conflict. She saw cities below the ground, marvels beyond anything in their current world.

Tears streamed down her joyous face as she continually implored to feel her Master on her body.

---

Han opened his eyes, waking up from the passionate night they had experienced. Moving his left hand to rub his eyes, he realized that something restrained his ability to move. Trying the other hand, the same feeling was felt.

As his brain slowly woke up, there was pressure felt on top of him. Breathing in the floral scent, Han couldn't help but grin, looking to see that it was Brittany lying on his chest. Turning to look on either side, there was Helania and Queen, nestled against him while lying in his arms.

Han took a second to make fists with his hands, trying to regain blood flow, sighing at the pins and needles.

"I guess things could be worse," Han grinned, thinking how fortunate he was to be surrounded by three stunning women who cared for him to such a degree.

Memories of their passionate and lustful activities were like the morning dew, slowly fading as the sun rose. It would be a valuable memory he'd cherish in the future. He could sense the shattered pieces of his heart slowly merging, though it would be a long while before being whole again. But even if the trauma of his past stayed with him for ages, the warm bodies lying against him reminded him that things would get better. Even Queen's cool body was refreshing, the warmth like the short daylight during the winter.

The rising sun flowed into their room, lighting the areas between the bed's curtains. A warmth spilled throughout the room.

Resting his head on the plush pillow, Han wondered if he should go back to sleep. It was a seductive idea as he enjoyed the company of his three creations.

There was a click and sound of the door opening. Light footsteps, like a cat, were heard approaching the bed. Paws were seen before they opened the curtains, flooding the interior of the bed area in sunlight.

Han quickly fled from the light, unable to shield his eyes, blinking and trying to remove the purple spots in his vision.

"Master, have you and the Mistresses had a comfortable sleep?" A gentle voice asked.

Adjusting to the morning, Han looked to see the maid, a leopard beast person, going through and organizing the curtains.

Sniffing the air, there was the smell of breakfast.

Due to the light, the three women began to stir, their long smooth legs sliding against one another as they buried their faces into Han's body. Adorable sighs were heard as each of them slowly woke up.

The first to open their eyes was Brittany, who smiled upon laying her eyes on Han. "Master," She moved and pressed her lips against his, her tongue slowly emerging and entangling with his. Her hungry moans resonated through her energizing breath. Upon moving away from him, a string of saliva connected them before breaking.

"Good morning, Master," Helania's soft voice entered his ear.

"Master, are you hoping for another serving?" Brittany's coy eyes looked deep into his, a slim curve of her smile indicating how she felt him becoming even more erect after Helania's seductive salutation.

Ignoring Brittany's teasing, Han turned to look at Helania, "Good morning, my beloved Helania."

Helania's cheeks reddened before she moved to kiss him, distracting from her embarrassment.

Han felt cool lips on his shoulder. As he finished kissing Helania, he turned his head to see Queen. "Good morning, my Queen."

"My Master, I wish you a wonderful morning," Queen smiled as she wiggled closer to share a kiss. Compared to the other two, her lips were cool but filled with heated passion, her tongue trying to pull out all the heat from Han as it joined with his.

Queen moved away from Han, her cheeks pink, though, against her snow-white skin, the image was alluring. Her grey eyes were like endless pools of mercury, catching the light. "Let us continue at another time, My Master." A mischievous smile formed.

Seeing the smile on Queen's face, different from her usual aloof self when in public, Han felt his chest warm. He felt like he was seeing something special only reserved for him.

Kissing Han's chest, Brittany moved off of him, her breasts hanging down and swaying with her movements. Noticing his eyes on her body, she gave Han a wink and blew him a kiss. Once on her feet, her arms pressed together to accentuate her bosom, her smile indicating how much she enjoyed the attention.

Helania sat on the edge of the bed, raising her hands as she arched her back, a sigh flowing out of her.

His eyes moved to look at Helania, attracted by the movement. The way the sunlight outlined Helania's body, Han's eyes gazed at the flawless form of his creation. It was something he looked forward to seeing more often at the Academic City while they lived inside the mansion, being prepared for them. A portion of him longed to reach out towards Helania and pull her to him as though he feared she'd fade out of existence. Han grabbed the emotion and exorcised it, knowing it only stemmed from his insecurities after gaining his abilities.

Sensing his eyes on her body, Helania turned.

Han couldn't help but feel that time had stopped as the world brightened from the smile she had revealed to him. For a second, the shadows in his heart were incinerated.

"Master, let us enjoy the lovely breakfast prepared for us." Brittany reached out a hand towards where Han lay on the bed.

"Come on, Master," Brittany merrily danced, swaying her hips to a silent melody.

"My Master," Queen's smile didn't lose out to the other two, aiding his mood.

Reaching to grasp Helania's hand, Han rose from the bed, sliding his legs off the inviting mattress. With Helania's hands near him, he moved his head near and pressed his lips on her soft porcelain skin.

"Master," Helania breathed.

Chuckling, Han grinned as he looked at Helania and then turned to include Brittany and Queen, "I love all of you. Thank you."

Helania glided and embraced Han's head into her bosom, "With each passing second, we feel blessed to have you, Master." Her voice softly conveyed her beliefs.

Hearing footsteps, Han felt Helania's arms relax. He shifted his body to see numerous maids entering, each carrying some clothing article. Seeing how many there were and all the different outfits, he could infer that they were the new outfits designed for them.

"Master, we apologize for interrupting your moment with the Mistresses." The leopard girl beast person bowed her head. "We reasoned you would like to look at the clothing created for the day. Please let us know if they do not meet your divine expectation."

Based on what they wore the night before, Han chuckled, "I have faith that what was designed will appear splendid on us." Now that his mind was awake, he was eager to try the clothes.

Standing from the bed, Han moved away from the girls so that his group of maids could adequately show off what they held in their hands. He instantly noticed how the clothes had a lighter feel compared to the dashing appearance he presented as he observed the Empire soldiers being massacred by his beloved Queen.

Instead of a shirt, there was a simple white vest with purple designs comparable to the previous outfits. The star and moon symbol would be prominently exhibited on his chest.

The maid holding the vest opened it up to allow him to insert his arms.

Han imagined the vest was designed with his being outdoors under the sun since he would be heading off to Illumin to be admitted into the Academy. Though it wasn't silk, the material was smooth and glided on his skin. It was also light and breathed well.

A sheep beast girl maid got on her knees to present the pants, being careful about not letting them touch the floor. She looked at Han's feet as though wanting to make sure that she didn't allow him to miss the opening.

On either side of her, there were maids also on their knees.

Stepping into the opening, Han observed the maid nearest his left leg begin to help his foot be exposed so he could put it down. She ensured that the leg of the pants touched the ground at no point and wouldn't inconvenience him.

This was repeated with the other, and not long until the pants were lifted to his hips, clasp quickly done.

Matching the vest, the pants were moderately formal but still had the appearance of being comfortable. Han couldn't help but envision them being fit for a casual day at a corporate office. Compared to the pants he wore previously, they were more form-fitting. They didn't hug his legs but still permitted the shape of his legs to be seen.

With his body shape, finding clothes was challenging, not having the average type that clothing stores catered to. Han didn't think he had remarkable legs, but from where he could look, the pants did a good job highlighting the right parts. So feeling how the pants fit his legs, Han couldn't help but feel pleased.

A maid then placed shoes on the ground, the type meant to be worn with bare feet. It reminded him a little of the traditional shoes worn in his country long ago before going through modernization and the adoption of external fashion trends.

Though his clothes were simplistic, neither the designs nor the fabric would be considered such. As a mirror was offered to him, Han knew that his outfit would be considered to be highly fashionable. Many would be willing to pay hundreds, if not more, to wear what he had on.

After seeing that Han was satisfied, the space behind them was torn in half. The maids each curtsied and respectfully stepped back through the mysterious liquid, which shimmered and sparked. It was soon closed once the group had entered.

Han turned to look at the three, keen to see what they wore.

Each group of maids for the girls stood behind them to permit Han a clear view.

Though the outfits they wore the day before were breathtaking, Han couldn't help but think that what they wore was equally as captivating in his eyes. Just like how he wore an outfit perfect for an outdoor walk, the girls had on a similar lighthearted design. The only difference was how what they modeled emphasized their feminine grace.

Helania's dress clung to her body as though it were just a second skin, outlining the curves of her breasts, waist, and legs. The sky blue fabric had the light appearance of cotton but the elegance of silk. It slid on her skin as she proudly displayed her body. The color matched her straight black hair, giving Helania a brighter and more positive image.

Her smooth white shoulders were bare, only a string used to hold up the dress. Down the middle, the dress was cut in a way to allow where the breasts met and her graceful belly to be visible. Similar to the string used to hold up her outfit, the same item was used to keep the dress together and create a crisscross pattern.

Ivy and modern lines flowed up the dress, rainbows created as they caught the light. Stars glittered from some type of precious stone sewn into the dress as they followed the pattern. A crescent moon was also created, but with a scaling design using some kind of metal or scales from a monster with how the light reflected off it, scattering it into rainbows.

"Master, what do you think?" Helania's eyes glittered as he slowly twirled, the skirt flowing like a calm stream in the middle of a pristine forest.

Han couldn't help but think of the sky, the celestial bodies slightly visible despite the light blue sky and sun. It was easy to imagine viewing them as he relaxed on his back and gazed past the forest's canopy.

The view of the dress complimented Helania's more solemn mood while also displaying the inner playfulness which would occasionally trickle out through her eyes when they were alone. "It looks stunning and truly enhances your magnificence."

"How about me?" Brittany stepped forward, seductively bending forward slightly as she crossed her legs.

Like Han, Brittany's upper half was covered in a vest. The vest was a darker orange, fitting her red hair and passionate personality. The difference was that it only covered half, slightly covering her shoulders and the front of her breasts. Han's eyes couldn't help but wander to the bottom of her bust, exposed and not covered by the clothing.

Wrapping her lower half was a plaid skirt, the primary color black with red and orange lines. On the bottom and top were ivy with the occasional star and moon. The skirt was short enough that her voluptuous bottom was slightly visible.

Her outfit also had red suspenders that supported the irresistible short skirt. The suspenders also helped to push her breasts together, allowing her mounds to be clearly seen where the vest clasped together in the center of her chest.

"I love how breezy it is," Brittany had a hand on her skirt and slowly began lifting it as though she would show Han what lay underneath. She released her skirt at the last minute, winking, "Maybe later, Master."

Brittany then skipped over to where Han was standing, wrapping her bare arms around Han's.

Feeling Brittany's inviting arms, Han couldn't help but feel his heartbeat increase slightly, aroused by the skinship. What helped his mental state was how he had grown accustomed to Brittany's public displays of affection. He also confessed that he didn't mind how she flirted with him, understanding her heart was filled with only her adoration for him.

Queen rolled her eyes at Brittany's display as she placed her fist on her waist. One leg was slightly bent, while the other was straight. Compared to the other two, her outfit involved delicate leather black pants with blue ivy in addition to the symbol of a star and moon running up on the side. It suited the leather high heel boots.

Just as before, her whip was attached to her side.

Widening his eyes, Han was surprised that her torso was covered by a crop top, with her shoulders exposed and her arms primarily bare. Queen's arms only had a thin amount of fabric connected to the central part of the top, likely to keep her shirt from sliding down. Being some kind of cotton with how it stretched, her alluringly large breasts seemed to want to burst out.

Noticing that it wasn't leather, Han marveled at the contrast. "Though I enjoyed the outfit from the night before, I also enjoy how you switched things up." He beamed at how each of them appeared to be trying new styles.

He was eager to see what other garments they would try out.

Queen shifted slightly away, "I am thankful my attire meets your expectations, My Master."

The way she behaved only reminded him of the kiss she'd given him when they lay in bed, a glimpse of the pure woman behind the aloof facade only revealed to him. He couldn't help but want to meet with her alone more to see her adorable side.

Glancing at the maids and smelling the food waiting for them, Han nodded, "We should go eat the food that was prepared for us. I would hate for the chefs to think we do not appreciate them." He did feel slightly guilty for making the maids wait for them to put on their clothes, considering how they served breakfast with the lively mood of feeding the four of them.

He knew they didn't mind and would think it was within his rights to take as much time as he wanted, but it didn't mean he could take such loyalty for granted. For Han, those loyal to him were a priority, even if he was just going through the current world searching for something interesting with no set purpose.

Walking around the bed, he passed by the leopard maid, who had her head respectfully lowered.

Behind him, his creations followed, their skin seeming to glisten like they were filled with nutrients from their nightly activities.

Han saw the dining table covered in a glittering tablecloth with elegant porcelain plates on top. The edges were covered in something similar to gold. However, the material independently shimmered despite the sun flooding through the open windows.

Even from where he stood, Han could see steam floating off the food, despite the amount of time that had passed since he smelled the food. Anticipating the meal, his mouth filled with saliva. One of the things he enjoyed since gaining his ability was consuming a wide assortment of meals with ingredients he could've only yearned to acquire in the past.

There was already a maid who had pulled out his chair at the head of the table.

"Good morning, Master," The woman was a bunny girl, though instead of a bipedal bunny, she was an elegant woman with white bunny ears emerging from the top of her head. From the top of her behind, a fluffy tail was exposed. Her beast person traits complimented her long wavy blonde hair and fair skin.

"Good morning. I hope we did not keep all of you waiting long?" Han placed a hand on the woman's arm.

The maid raised a hand to her mouth, and chimes swaying in the wind on a summer day were heard as she giggled. "Master, please, we are only here to make sure that you are comfortable. There is no reason to be considerate of us." Her face brightened with a smile, her eyes sparkling from the sunlight.

Han moved close to the table and soon felt a gentle tap on the back of his knees. Sitting down, he slowly gazed at his creations at the table. They had a smile on each of their faces as though waiting for him to begin eating first. Being the first time they sat together and shared a meal, he couldn't help but feel again like he was inside a fantasy world instead of his home back on Earth.

"The food looks delicious," Han breathed in the smell of food as he looked at the numerous items displayed on the table.

The maid who held his chair grabbed a serving spoon and dished out an enormous pile of scrambled eggs to his dish.

Han picked up a fork, broke off some of the eggs, and took a bite. He first noticed how light and fluffy the eggs were, in addition to the lovely golden color. He detected even a slight spice, complementing the eggs' natural taste. Even without adding salt or black pepper, the item exploded with flavor.

As the maid placed some bacon and sausages onto his plate, Han used his fingers to pick up some of the crispy meat. He took a moment to examine the exterior, not seeing any singed parts and marveling how it wasn't soggy.

There have been plenty of times when he'd enjoy breakfast at a hotel that served a hot breakfast buffet. The bacon would have blackened parts from being kept in the oven for too long or be soggy from sitting in the grease. Though it was barely adequate for breakfast at a hotel, it wasn't an experience he appreciated.

"I hope that the food meets your standards," The bunny girl maid's brows were slightly raised, uncertain of what Han would say.

Han slightly shook his head, "No, I was actually admiring how the chef had done a remarkable job with the bacon. The quality is considerably better than what I have seen considering the number of people the staff has to serve."

Being the one that created them, he was well aware of the number of staff that the dining staff had to prepare food for at the Stronghold. It was on the level of a commercial kitchen at a luxury hotel, having to serve the guests on top of the hundreds of staff.

Grabbing some biscuits and placing them on a plate, Han grabbed a gravy boat. Tipping it over the biscuit, the thick gravy with large chunks of sausages slowly flowed over the fluffy bread. Slowly moving the boat in a circle, the bread was covered with the warm, steaming, delicious sauce.

Helania, Queen, and Brittany patiently waited as their plates were filled with various food on the serving dishes.

Helania enjoyed the assortment of fruits, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Using a knife, she meticulously cut the fruit into smaller sizes before delicately placing the items into her mouth.

This was different from what Queen enjoyed, piles of meat like thick-cut ham, bacon, and sausages. There were even cuts of steak and roast beef for her to enjoy. Though she did use her silverware to cut up the various types of meat, they weren't nearly as neatly portioned out.

As Han ate the food, enjoying the flavor and the juices that came out of the food, he couldn't help but notice that Brittany had placed the same types of food that he was enjoying. He tried not to smile too obviously, wondering if the woman was following his lead or if she had selected what she wanted.

"Master, will we be traveling to the Academic City today?" Helania glanced at him as she was cutting up a melon.

Nodding, "That is correct. I look forward to seeing what the city is like and the types of people that attend it." Han couldn't help but picture magical schools he had read about in books.

"Based on what that woman had hinted at, I suspect that nobles attending the school may be an issue," Queen sneered at the idea. "I relish seeing how they dare to mess with us."

Brittany raised a hand to her mouth as she giggled at Queen's words, "I have no doubt they are people who have no concept of actual power." Her eyes looked to Han as she blushed, "They can only hope..."

"Do not go too overboard," Helania sternly looked at Brittany and Queen. Seeing Queen roll her eyes at the comment, Helania placed her silverware down. "Even if those nobles are no threat to us, they can still make things bothersome, especially for our Master. I will not accept either of you antagonizing the nobles and jeopardizing things."

Han nodded at Helania's words, "I do not intend to make a big show while I attend that school. If any nobles are thoughtless enough to mess with me, I desire them to be neatly managed so no one may infer our involvement."

"As you wish, My Master," Queen nodded at his words.

Brittany pouted, "Yes, Master."

Thanking the maid who poured him juice into his cup, Han chuckled, "There will be plenty of opportunities where we can show off our strengths. There are even a few ideas in mind, which I imagine will generate plenty of chaos indirectly in this world."

Brittany perked up, "What do you have in mind?"

"I will leave that a mystery for now," Han smiled as he placed a finger on his lips.

Seeing that everyone had eaten their fill, Han grabbed a napkin and wiped his mouth.

The maids began clearing away the dishes in front of each of them before presenting a bowl filled with crystal-clear water.

Han placed his hands into the water and began washing them, removing the grease from his hands and under his fingernails. The bunny girl held out a towel which he took from her hands and began drying his hands. Another maid offered a hot towel, which he used to wipe his face. The steam on the towel helped relax him after a large meal, feeling his skin clean.

Some of him wanted to enjoy another bath with his creations, but Han was far more eager to be on his way to the next part of his journey.

As he stood, the bunny girl maid pulled out the chair.

"Make sure to let everyone know that I enjoyed the meal. I look forward to the next one." Han looked to the maid, feeling grateful for having such dedicated people who pour such passion into their craft.

"Your words are too kind. I have no doubt that they would be honored to know that you enjoyed what they prepared for you, Master." The maid bowed.

Han felt like a parent, seeing their child blossom into a respected member of society. They showed such filial obedience and love even though he hadn't dictated any command on how they should behave. Each of them was a blank canvas, but over such a short time, his creations have evolved into competent and dedicated people. Though Han did place inside each of them that they wouldn't betray him, he couldn't help but think that people on Earth would've accomplished only the bare minimum. But his creations differed in how they went above and beyond his expectations.

Han moved away from the table, the food warm in his belly. The food reminded him how blessed he'd become after gaining his ability.

"Master, you should probably switch back to your original appearance," Helania glided towards him.

Glancing at Helania, he raised an eyebrow before his eyes widened. He lightly smacked his forehead, "Thank you for the reminder." Chuckling, "It would be awkward to meet Elis and Tom's family in my current form."

With so much occurring since arriving at Leaf Village, particularly with the encounter with the Lunar Empire soldiers, Han had forgotten that he had altered his appearance to meet with the Lady Knight from Illumin Academic City. He grinned at Helania, appreciating how she remained on top of matters and helped to prevent him from making errors. Creating Helania was one of the best decisions he had.

Pulling in his will, Han merely imagined his appearance since before, though he couldn't help but make negligible adjustments. The adjustments were so minor that it would be difficult to detect unless another person had a photo of him back when he was on Earth. One of the adjustments was decreasing his weight by close to ten pounds.

Returning to his body shape before meeting the Lady Knight, he grunted slightly as his bones adjusted, bringing along the pops and cracks felt all over. The sensation wasn't as comfortable as cracking the hand knuckles. It was likened to when he dislocated his knees during a martial arts club sparring practice in his undergraduate years.

Han couldn't help but let a laugh emerge due to the discomfort.

Slowly letting in a quivering breath, Han took a moment to acclimate. He lifted his right arm and moved it in a circular motion, ensuring the shoulder joint was satisfactory. Despite going through the agonizing transformation, Han did enjoy the alterations he made. One of them was his knee joints which felt like they were freshly lubricated and weren't in pain -- one of the downsides of being the weight he was back on Earth.

The loss of ten pounds was also welcomed, making him feel barely better. He raised his arms and twisted his torso left and right, enjoying how he felt more limber. Even if the transformations were seen externally, he welcomed the slight adjustments during the short while when he needed to appear as his older self.

In front of him, the air crackled and shattered to reveal the portal leading to the Stronghold. There was a slight ripple along the surface of the doorway as two maids emerged carrying a mirror.

While they positioned the mirror, Han frowned, seeing how he appeared, especially in his current attire.

"Is there anything wrong?" Brittany's brows were raised as she slipped her arms around his.

Breathing in and slowly letting it out, Han shook his head, "My current garment is not particularly flattering on my current body."

While it wasn't awful, the vest bulged slightly from the larger belly. He could imagine dads wearing such an outfit on the beach, but Han didn't particularly care for the appearance.

"Would you like a new outfit?" Brittany tilted her head.

Shaking his head, "I think I will wear what I had on last night. It is a minor issue."

Brittany released Han as she took a step back, providing him space.

Visualizing his outfit, the current clothes faded as a shadowy black mist covered his form. Like the sun piercing through rain clouds, he emerged wearing the same outfit as the previous night. He turned slightly to check to make sure there were no errors made. He smiled, appreciating how convenient the process was. Though what he now wore didn't feel as refreshing as the one created for the day, it was significantly more flattering.

"Thank you," Han looked to the two maids, who curtsied and walked back through the still-open portal. Once they passed through, the tear in space crackled and merged before vanishing.

Han smiled at each of his three creations, "I guess it is now time for us to depart."

Brittany lowered her brow as she looked to the maids, "Make sure to clean this place and return it to how it was. I do not want people to think that Master is a messy person."

"Yes, Mistress," The maids gracefully curtsied before returning to clearing away the plates.

Seeing how Brittany directed the maid, he nodded. He suspected that she was telepathically managing the maids, but hearing her vocally order them was reassuring that she was also responsible with her role. Though he did not doubt that Helania would've been competently fulfilling the duties of handling matters related to the supporting staff, Han felt it was good to give Brittany some responsibility on top of being his personal attendant. He was eager to see how she'd blossom in the role.

As Brittany returned to holding his arm, he lovingly laid a hand on her head.

Brittany looked up, her eyes wide and sparkling with a pink air around her face, a broad smile growing at having his affection. She buried her head deeper into his arm as she giggled.

Reaching the opened door, Han turned to look back at the room. Though they hadn't spent much time at the location, it was difficult not to feel slightly sentimental about where they spent the night together for the first time on the road. He took the memory and set it aside to be cherished for the future, letting him remember that no matter what happened, he had at least one moment of feeling loved after that event.

"My Master?" Queen slightly raised a hand towards Han, her mouth partially open and her brow raised.

Grinning, Han looked at Queen and then at Helania. "I just thought about how this place feels as the start of our journey together. Even if we are separated, I can hold this place in my heart."

In his mind, Han couldn't help but imagine a future where he would need to send out his creations to attend to matters -- where he would need to part from them. For a second, Han was tempted to see if his abilities would allow him to glimpse into the future, but at the last instant, like hands reaching for sweets, he pulled back. He grinned, happy that he had the self-control not to look ahead and ruin any surprises. It was also likely that skimming into the future would be pointless for him due to his ability. Any endeavors to monitor what could be would be ever-shifting, just like with the observer effect. The changes may be negligible for the average human, but his power would make events far more chaotic. It would be like examining the surface of a pond with a waterfall. Trying to see his reflection would be impossible with the constant ripples.

Walking out of the room, Han casually glanced at the two doors where Elis and Tom's family stayed. As he passed the rooms, a part of him imagined wishing them well again, even after saying their goodbyes the night before. He may have talked to them again in another life, but Han was glad that he could cleanly end the chapter. The next time he encountered them, it would be like meeting friends after a long period had passed.

Han had no doubt that in the future, running into them was a possibility with what he had in mind and how Tom was a merchant.

With the gift given to Elis and Queen's underlings keeping an eye on things, Han was confident that the village woman would be fine. Just like how he wanted to journey and explore the world, it would be the same with those he would meet in passing -- both parties were changed by the interaction. Elis would thrive in the new environment and reach even higher heights as compared to when she met Han for the first time.

Walking down the steps to the inn's lobby, he noticed a change in the ambiance compared to when he returned to the inn after encountering the soldiers. He smiled, feeling a levity and warmth like spring after a harsh winter.

Already, sounds of people chuckling and conversing in the dining area could be heard as he arrived at the ground level of the inn.

Han examined the clerk, already discerning a difference in how she stood. Though the woman had the air of a professional, now he couldn't help but catch that she stood a bit taller and with more pride.

Slightly turning his head, he glanced back at Helania and grinned.

"Is this your doing?" Han thought.

"My Lord," The woman deeply bowed.

As the woman straightened, Han's eyes noticed a necklace between the woman's bosom and how it caught the light on top of how it felt familiar to him. He could glimpse the symbol of a star and moon on it.

"That is a nice necklace you have there," Han's eyes shifted slowly from the woman's breasts to her face, seeing the slight pink of her cheeks.

"Mistress Helania has bestowed this on me." The woman placed her hand on the necklace. "I am grateful for the opportunity to serve." She bowed again to Han.

"Perform your duties in the name of our Master, and you may be able to witness things far beyond your limited comprehension, Bethany. Do not dissatisfy me." Helania's eyes were like a new owner of a stray, warning it not to misbehave and create a mess.

"Yes, Mistress Helania. I will fulfill my duties without fail." Bethany's expression was like a priestess hearing the commands of their god.

Han lifted an eyebrow, curious about what Helania had in mind with the woman but decided not to meddle.

"Have you had a nice stay, My Lord?" Bethany warmly beamed.

Nodding, "I was pleasantly surprised by the standards of this establishment." Though the technology wasn't better than modern hotels, he was sincere about his thoughts on what they made available. What he admired the most was how clean everything was for a society close to a similar period as the middle ages. They delivered a habitable environment despite the restricted technological advancement.

Since Helania had developed some connection with the woman, he didn't even bother hiding his ability. Raising his palm side up, Han took a moment to consolidate his will just above his hand. This time, he did it without the theatrics, several dense bars of platinum materializing from the void of reality.

Bethany's eyes were wide as they quivered in awe. She was frozen as a statue.

Keeping himself from grinning at the woman's reaction, he gently set them on the counter in front of her. With each clank of the bars, she flinched. "The people who arrived with me, I would like them to stay here as long as they want. For the change, just keep it for yourself though I presume even that may not be necessary." Han looked slightly back at Helania.

Helania merely nodded, not disclosing any details.

Smirking, Han returned his attention to the woman.

"I will personally make sure that your guests are treated with the consideration they deserve and will handle any issues if they arise." The woman bowed as she assumed the task.

Making a couple of more bars of platinum, he looked at the woman, "These are to be presented to the woman, not part of the merchant's family. Let her know that the amount is for any expenditures she has in the next several years or longer. The woman is authorized to spend it however she pleases."

Han had a hunch that Elis wouldn't feel comfortable accepting such a tremendous amount of money from Han, so he determined it would be far more prudent to present it to her indirectly. This way, Elis would feel compelled to accept it instead of leaving it behind.

"I will be taking off now," Han waved at the woman as he walked towards the doorway of the inn.

"Please have a safe travel," The woman bowed her head.

As they walked to the carriage with Andrea waiting for them, Han glanced at Helania, raising an eyebrow. "No instructions for her?"

Helania shook her head, "No, Master. That woman already knows what is expected of her."

"No hint?" Han grinned.

Making a coy smile, Helania teased with her eyes, "Would you like one, Master?"

Flopping his head to one side, Han sighed. "I would like to, but I should abstain from ruining things."

Brittany removed herself from Han's arm as she walked over to the door and opened it. Though she acted selfishly, she always ensured she did her job suitably.

Stepping into the carriage, Han mentally connected to Andrea, "The destination is Illumin Academic City."

"How soon would you like to arrive, Master?"

Shrugging, "I am in no significant hurry, but I also do not see a reason to go at too slow of a pace."

"As you wish," Andrea disconnected the connection.

Sitting down in his leather seat, Han looked to Brittany, "Bring me something refreshing."

"Yes, Master," Brittany curtsied as a crackling was heard, and space ripped apart to reveal a portal.

Sitting on the couch Tom's family sat on, Queen looked to Han, "My Master, how long will it take for us to reach Illumin?"

Sensing that the carriage was proceeding towards the second entrance of Leaf Village, Han scratched his cheek. "I actually do not know." He opened up a map of the area and positioned it above the table. Placing his hands together and separating his hands from the map, the terrain emerged to transform it into a three-dimensional one.

---

Valessandria pressed and rubbed her thumb into her eye, trying to push out the build-up of fatigue after the long night and traumatizing events from the night before. Flashes of images, blood, limbs, and unspeakable facial expressions from beyond the pyramid invaded her thoughts. She couldn't help but flinch as she pushed back the memories that attempted to flood her psyche. Pulling in a shuddering breath, the world around her slowly came back into focus.

"Lady Knight?"

"I am fine." Valessandria attempted a smile as she looked to her second.

William pressed his lips together, holding back his words.

"Once we return to Illumin, I will make sure to get some sleep." She chuckled, knowing that William wanted to chastise her on how she wasn't taking care of herself.

A corner of William's lips raised, "My Lady, why do I not believe you?" His lips slowly flattened and brow furrowed as his eyes shifted towards the large chest in the corner of the Slumbering Traveler's dining area, hidden as much as possible from curious eyes. "I do not care for how we must take on the role of a delivery service, especially with something as dangerous as that."

Without even needing to look at the chest, Valessandria felt the item was exerting enormous pressure, monitoring her and ensuring she fulfilled her role. She didn't even enjoy considering how much wealth was contained inside, making her value her humble background. If she ever coveted wealth, such dreams would've immediately faded from her mind upon receiving such an absurd amount of platinum. It was a quantity that, if leaked, would have every underground organization place a bounty on her and her men's heads.

"Feel free to let the young noble know you have no desire to deliver his funds to the Academy," Valessandria smirked as she glanced at William before returning her attention to everyone in the immediate area.

William shivered, "Based on what you told me, I think I am okay with not doing such a thing. I also have no intention of earning the ire of the Treasurer."

Snorting, Valessandria watched those under her command laughing and alleviating themselves of the mental burden placed on them as they raced to Leaf Village. Even though they didn't need to fight the Empire, heading into an environment where death was a possibility wasn't something easily forgotten. Many of them were still students and in training, volunteering due to their own personal beliefs in justice -- desiring to protect the helpless.

She felt guilty, making them head back without even having a chance to rest after helping the village try to return to a semblance of normality. It was why she had paid for them to have a hot meal before they began their travel back to Illumin -- the least she could do for them. There was the thought of allowing them to enjoy the baths, but it was dismissed due to their situation.

If things had gone as predicted, the journey back to Illumin would've been peaceful as they traveled at a slower pace. The problem was the thing behind her. Having the item in their presence was now more dangerous than if they were to go against trained soldiers.

Already, Valessandria detected a few glances from guests of the inn at the chest, curious about the contents. It was evident with the security of it that the likelihood of something valuable being inside was high. Even if the guests, many of them merchants, didn't have any immediate intentions to find out, there was the real potential that they could gossip about it. Unfortunately, gossip was far faster than a horse could travel. Now, their safety depended on whether anyone was curious enough to go against an armed group associated with the Academy.

Valessandria placed a hand on the sword at her waist, reassuring herself of its presence.

"It seems like we are attracting more attention," William casually placed a hand on his mouth while lowering his voice. His eyes looked forward, making sure not to make any eye contact.

Agreeing with his thoughts, Valessandria pushed her chair back, causing a low groan as the legs rubbed against the dining area's floor. Standing, she couldn't help but wince at the attention.

Seeing their leader standing, the others in their group immediately quieted as they stood -- knowing it was time to leave.

Even if they were trainees, it was difficult to not ignore the heavy mood. The moment the chest appeared, Valessandria and William had a change in their demeanor. She appreciated that they didn't ask any questions and followed their training. Leaf Village may be a relatively peaceful place, but it didn't change that they were far away from their home and the security it provided. Though they did relax in the dining area while eating their meal, none forgot to keep their sense of situational awareness at an appropriate level.

William pointed, "The four of you bring the chest to the stable."

Saluting to William, four students quickly moved from the group towards the chest in the corner of the room. Two lowered themselves, and making a grunting noise, they lifted it while using the strength of their legs. The chest trembled as it was raised, but the other two immediately placed their hands below the chest between the handles.

"It only took those two dainty maids," William shook his head.

"I have no doubt that even one of them would have been enough." Valessandria shivered as she remembered how effortlessly the young noble's maids carried what would take trained grown men considerable effort to move.

"And the master of those things will attend our Academy?" The blood drained from William's face.

"Silence!" Valessandria hissed. She couldn't help but check to make sure none of those things were within earshot.

After encountering the young lord and his attendants, knowing how easily they could've eliminated her, she couldn't help but tremble. Even though the area had only the other guests and her men, Valessandria couldn't help but think she was being watched even as they spoke. It felt as though even the shadows listened.

William immediately snapped his mouth shut. Even though he didn't experience what Valessandria had gone through, just seeing the cheerful and polite woman casually carry something that could bludgeon a grown man to death was an image that would haunt him.

Seeing that the four students had a firm hold of the chest, Valessandria began to weave her way around the tables out of the dining area. Behind her was the sound of metal squeaking and scraping against wood as her party followed after her.

Walking down the hallway, she nodded at the maids who passed by on their way to their duties. Their steps were lighter compared to when she first entered the inn, and the information hadn't fully disseminated throughout the village of the Empire, no longer being a threat.

Valessandria could understand the feeling since she still had the sensation of being in a dream due to what she had seen. She dreaded the knowledge that she'd need to report to the council, mainly to deal with her insubordinate action to take trainees to defend Leaf Village and explain the horrors she had seen. A smirk emerged on her lips, knowing many would be soothed after seeing the wealth she carried to them.

Gritting her teeth, her eyes were fixated on the doors and the bright light of the sun pouring inside. Even with her exhaustion, there was a sense of comfort in seeing the sunlight. Her steps quicken as though desperate to be back in the light and safety.

Passing by the front desk in the lobby, Valessandria nodded at the clerk.

Her eyes narrowed, noticing a glint of metal between the fingers of the woman. The woman had her hand on something as though it were a religious item. Even with a casual glance, she could readily tell the woman held a necklace at home in a noblewoman's jewelry box.

"Thank you for your help, My Lady," The clerk bowed to Valessandria.

Waving a hand, Valessandria nodded, "Your food was wonderful. I will recommend your establishment if any head this way."

Turning away from the woman, Valessandria pushed open the door and breathed in the fresh morning air, still wet from the morning dew. A cool breeze passed through her blonde hair.

Valessandria took a brief moment to see the peaceful village as a few villagers walked around, doing their early morning tasks. Even nature had a festive air; the grass between the buildings glittered like jewels from the morning dew. Just like with the maids, there was a sense of catharsis; the fear and panic built up from the fear of the Empire were gone and replaced with relief.

Turning the corner, she made her way to the stable, where all their horses were taken care of.

The sounds of neighing could be heard in addition to the footsteps of the stable boy. As she reached the end of the inn, a long stable packed with the horses belonging to the guests was revealed. In front were their horses, several eating from buckets hanging from poles. There were also numerous hay bales that a few of the horses were eating from.

Valessandria couldn't help but grin, seeing how their horses happily ate the food, their coat freshly brushed. She could tell they were in a good mood, enjoying the break after such an arduous journey.

Her eyes spotted one of her men that was keeping an eye on their belongings, currently hanging from poles to allow the horse some rest from the added weight.

"My Lady," A young boy approached them, removing the hat on his head and revealing his red head.

Smiling at the boy, "You did a good job with our horses, especially with the other chores you have, taking care of the others belonging to the guests." Valessandria reached for her purse, hanging from her waist. Her fingers quickly undid the latch, and she inserted her hand into the leather pocket that had many of her coins. The rest she had inside her saddlebags, along with the other gear they would need for a long journey. Pulling out six Illumin gold coins, Valessandria handed them to the stable boy. "Here is payment for the horses, wagon, and supplies. The rest is for you in appreciation of your hard work."

The six coins clinked against one another inside the small boy's cupped hands, his eyes wide, feeling the heft of the metal. "Thank you, My Lady!" The boy nodded. "I made sure to store plenty of canteens filled with our best water and enough dried food to last a while."

Hearing the boy's words, Valessandria chuckled as she playfully rubbed the top of his head.

Just from seeing the saddlebags, it was clear that they were filled to the brim with supplies. The inn had been generous, even if she had paid the total amount. There were plenty of times when people would try to cheat others out of what was settled, so she couldn't help but smile at how the inn had acted beyond appropriately. She reminded herself to inform the proper department to list the Slumbering Traveler as an approved location for staff from Illumin going on official travels.

Valessandria made her way toward the horse she had ridden, appreciating its smooth black coat that seemed to gleam under the rising sun.

Sniffing the air and catching her scent, the horse turned its head to see Valessandria. It nickered with delight, moving its head up and down as it waved its tail. The horse moved to where she was, nuzzling its head against hers.

"You miss me?" Valessandria laughed as she lovingly petted the horse.

While the horse pushed its head towards her, trying to get her attention, she quickly checked to ensure everything was alright. From what she could see, the stable boy had done a proper job.

"Stay there," Valessandria pointed at the ground next to her as she walked to the rack that stored her blanket, saddle, gear, and saddlebags.

As the Lady Knight, she had gained plenty of experience preparing a horse. On top of that, it didn't help that she enjoyed their company, finding them much better company than the nobles at Illumin. If it wasn't for the task she was provided by someone who shook how she'd see the world moving forward, she may have felt that the opportunity to be away from her duties at Illumin was pleasant.

Her hands, momentarily resting on her blanket, trembled slightly. In the back of her mind, a persistent thought kept growing since encountering the young lord. She couldn't help but wonder if what she saw was truly the real form and not just wearing the face of a young boy.

Making a fist with her hands, Valessandria attempted to regain control over her nerves. As the head of the Disciplinary Committee, it was vital for her to remain objective, not fall into foolish thoughts, and chase after apparitions inside her mind.

Lifting the blanket, she made her way back to her horse, patiently waiting for her to return. She positioned it on the horse, adjusting it slightly to ensure it would be beneath the saddle. The process of getting the horse ready for the long journey back to the city was therapeutic, especially with how she was haunted by dark thoughts. Moving her hands also helped to keep her moving forward.

Making sure that the reins and straps were on appropriately, Valessandria looked to the others to see how they were doing with their horses.

One of the horses they had purchased from the inn was already connected to the wagon. There was a loud clank and cloud of rust as the chest filled with platinum bars were carefully placed inside. The wagon creaked and groaned in protest under the weight.

Despite hearing the wagon's complaining, Valessandria felt a wave of relief, knowing they could purchase a wagon. With how heavy it was, she knew it wouldn't be able to ride on top of a horse. She did consider removing the platinum bars and distributing them amongst all the horses. However, she felt that the bars would still be too heavy. There was also the fear of what would happen if they even lost one of the bars during the trip.

"My Lady," William had on his helmet and saluted to her, "At your command, we can depart."

Nodding at him, Valessandria made her way to her horse.

"Mount up!" William commanded the others.

There was a loud clang of metal as the students raised themselves onto their respective horses. Understanding that they would leave to return home, a few of the horses dug into the ground as though full of energy. The students riding on the energetic ones gently rubbed the horses' necks.

Placing her helmet on her head, Valessandria inserted her foot into the stirrup and hopped onto the horse.

"Take care of me," She petted the animal's muscular neck.

Like a river flooding from the side, the students began emerging from the inn's stable area onto the main road. Seeing the activity, a few villagers glanced in their direction, curious about what was happening in their quiet village. But seeing that it was them, they returned their attention to what they had been doing.

Valessanria guided her horse onto the main road, nodding as the students positioned themselves into a formation just like they had been trained. They made two long columns, ensuring to only take up part of the road and disrupt traffic. Their armors had a dull shine, slightly dusty from the travel and late-night duties assisting everyone.

What stuck out the most as she inspected the students was how none showed their exhaustion, even after riding for a full day and arriving to work with hardly a break until the end, close to sunrise. On top of that, they didn't complain even once about the work and how they wished to be back in their warm beds, getting ready to attend class the next day. She felt proud to be leading such a group. If there was a battle she was fated to take part in, she wanted her back to be protected by them.

Reaching the front of the column, she had her horse stop next to William, though slightly ahead.

William waved an arm forward, "Once we reach the entrance, pick up the pace quickly so that we can return back to Illumin as quickly as possible!"

With her Second's words, Valessandria directed her horse and headed towards the entrance pointing towards the capital. The journey would be long, but that only highlighted how far they had pushed themselves to reach Leaf Village in time. As their horses marched through the town somewhat fast, villagers waved their hands in appreciation. There were still wagons full of household belongings frantically packed away as people had prepared to flee, but now they were slowly putting things back where they belonged. Like how her students were tired but didn't reveal their fatigue, villagers had broad smiles and hope in their eyes after surviving a nightmarish event.

As Valessandria scanned the village, her eyes caught sight of a large shadow covering some of the houses and shops. She frowned. It made her think about the biggest difference in the village from what she knew of Leaf Village. An alien shadow belonging to an equally mysterious surreal enigmatic structure without any words to describe its presence, whether as a guardian or some symbol of horrors yet to arrive, was unknown. Many in the village talked in whispers as though not wanting to attract whatever god or demon the statues worshiped. Even with the purifying light of the sun beating its rays on it, the structure still had an ominous and eerie air haunting the land close.

When the village leaders asked her about the pyramid, she didn't know what to say aside from warning about what lay beyond it and that only those with the solid mental fortitude to handle the traumatizing image to deal with the carnage. At that moment, she also learned that the pyramid had only appeared that night, despite its weathered appearance.

As they departed the village and she could only see the unrestricted grassy fields free of any ominous structures of questionable origins, Valessandria felt herself smile. She felt the sun slowly warm her armor which was welcomed against the cool morning. However, she anticipated it feeling like she was wearing an oven after the sun reached its zenith. Knowing how hot it would get, she was grateful for the water canteens the inn provided. The wagon even had a few water jars and provisions they could use during the journey back to Illumin.

"I do not feel eager about camping outside," William said.

"If it was only sleeping outside we had to worry about, I would welcome such a thing." Valessandria chuckled.

"At least we did not see much monster activity, which may indicate that tonight will be relatively peaceful."

Nodding, Valessandria adjusted her posture on the saddle and said, "There is a chance that we may need to stop early if we spot any forests. We do not have enough firewood for more than one large fire. I prefer us to have several around to discourage monsters from attacking."

"At your command," William said. He looked behind and signaled for the columns to increase their speed. "We are fortunate that the inn had spare horses they were willing to sell on top of the wagon."

"I suspect that the inn preferred to have money saved instead of having animals that would continue to require food. With the Empire making its presence known so close to the border in the frontier, I would expect that to impact how merchants travel. The village will have difficult times ahead. Hopefully, the capital can provide aid to its citizens." She felt bad for the villagers. Life was challenging in the frontiers of the Kingdom and made receiving support difficult.

Valessandria inspected the surrounding area, happy to see it devoid of any people. She hoped that the rumors of the Empire attacking the Kingdom would discourage people from being on the roads for the moment as they traveled back to Illumin. They'd need to worry about monsters when night came, so adding bandits wasn't something she wanted. Though she felt bad for the villagers since negative rumors would make life difficult, she had to keep her students' safety in mind.

"I want you to send out scouts to see if anyone is nearby and also spot for any monsters," Valessandria turned her head to William. "Just because our luck holds, we must anticipate things turning bad fast."

William slowed his horse before turning to one of the students leading the column. "The Lady Knight wants scouts to make sure that we do not stumble upon any surprises. I want you to select three students to form a perimeter around us and two more to go further."

Though she was nervous about their journey back to Illumin, Valessandria couldn't help but feel it was a fortunate opportunity for the students as members of the Disciplinary Committee. Normally, they would only have experience inside the city and dealing with other students. Most situations they would encounter would be breaking up students if a dispute broke out between the nobility and commoners. But now, there was the possibility of fighting monsters and bandits. She released a sigh, feeling relieved that she didn't have to throw students into the fire to combat the Empire. Fighting bandits and monsters wouldn't be easy, but survival wouldn't be as hard.

Four students galloped past her as they moved to scout ahead of the group. One headed the way they came to check if anyone was tracking them.

She knew it would be better to send out ten as scouts, but their group wasn't that large. Suppose they were to encounter any monsters or bandits. In that case, the situation could deteriorate quickly before the scouts could return to provide reinforcement, something she preferred to avoid. Having five would still allow them to have some time to react to any threats coming their way.

The horse's rhythm helped relieve her of negative thoughts, her hips moving with as the horse moved at a relatively fast pace. Valessandria could tell that the horse could maintain the current rate for quite some time through the stirrups and her saddle.

As the sun slowly rose higher, approaching noon, all of them were beginning to feel relaxed, but not to the degree of treating it like some casual academic trip. She appreciated that William kept an eye out on the group's mentality, ensuring they maintained an appropriate level of alertness on the road. He'd occasionally head down the column if he heard any goofing around, warning them that they weren't on a picnic.

Since they weren't racing towards a destination to protect innocent civilians, their journey would be entirely on the road. The smooth worn path would be better for the horses and help them maintain their stamina.

Valessandria kept her head on a swivel, making sure that nothing was approaching them. Upon seeing movement, her eyes narrowed.

"It appears to be one of the scouts," William looked to Valessandria, his visor raised, face slightly sweating.

"I suspect they are only coming back to let us know that we are approaching the next junction." She went through the map in her mind, quickly calculating as she glanced to see where the sun was positioned in the sky. Everything lined up with what she estimated their position to be on the journey, so she didn't feel any worry.

It didn't take long before Valessandria could recognize the rider being one of their students.

Slowing down, the student saluted, "My Lady, I have come to convey that the way is clear, and the road heading to Illumin seems free of any dangers." The horse under the student was breathing deeply with its nostrils flared.

Just like with William, the student's face was beginning to sweat. Her eyes noticed one of the saddlebags had been touched, still slightly damp. Seeing that, she could even feel her own mouth feeling parched.

Valessandria saluted back to the student, "Good job. Thank you for your report. Remember to keep your focus since we do not know when there may be a danger. Good job with staying hydrated. Head back and refill your canteen. Also, make sure to take care of your horse before you resume your duties."

"Yes, My Lady!" The student grinned as he gave another salute and walked the horse back toward where the water was kept, along with all the supplies.

She couldn't help but smile at the innocent and childlike expression upon receiving a compliment. Taking a hand off of the reins, she reached back to where she stored her canteen. Lifting up the flap slightly, she pulled it out, the metal somewhat cool to the touch relative to everything else exposed to the sun. While holding the reins with her left hand, she opened up the cap and let it swing free from the leather strap. Raising the container to her mouth, she soon felt rejuvenated with the life-saving liquid. Making sure not to drink more than a sip, she swished the water in her mouth to get everything wet and moist before swallowing. Sealing the canteen, she returned it back to the saddlebag just behind her.

"Remind the students not to drink the water too quickly since we need to ration our supplies." Valessandria looked to William.

Nodding, he turned his horse around.

As her body moved in tandem with the horse's gait, she could hear William yelling at a few students who were foolish enough to get caught drinking too much water. She chuckled, remembering the days when she first started out and not realizing how dangerous it was to drink too much while on a mission. It was another thing that students could only learn after gaining practical experience. The fact that the students would forget was why she knew it was important to remind them. With the sun beating down, it wasn't hard to see that they would consume far too. This was in addition to them wearing nearly full-body armor. She couldn't help but imagine that the liquid would sizzle if she poured water on her armor. Being able to handle the heat was thankfully due to years of experience since being at Illumin.

Hearing a horse approaching from her left side, Valessandria turned slightly to see William grumbling and shaking his head.

"How many?" She grinned, knowing even a single student was too much for her Second.

"Too many for my liking," William sighed, confirming Valessandria's thoughts. "I think we should do some more field training after we settle back into things. Some students had drunk half their canteen before I stopped them." He flung a hand out. "I even threatened a few that they'd need to learn how to pee from their horses since we would not stop for their foolishness." He frowned as he checked their surroundings.

She couldn't help but raise a hand to her mouth, chuckling at her Second's frustration, reassured that they wouldn't encounter any difficulty due to insufficient water. Having William with her on the excursion helped relieve some of her burdens.

Valessandria knew William was joking since they'd be stopping for a moment when they reached the junction and began heading on the road leading to Illumin. But it would be a good lesson for students who didn't remember their training. At worse, they'd soil themselves and get teased by their classmates, the lesson forever seared into their minds.

Though William was harsh to the students, it wasn't difficult to see that he just wanted to ensure they were ready for the world once they left Illumin to follow whatever path was open to them. She knew how it was often the case that outside the Academy, the world wasn't as kind, and people didn't keep as close an eye out for the safety of those under their command.

---

Raising her visor, Valessandria wiped away the sweat from her eyes, blinking several times as she adjusted to the light and to remove the sting. Though the metal of the helmet was hot to the point where she'd likely burn without her armored gloves, it did provide some shade from the sun. Feeling the sting beginning to fade, she lowered her visor, feeling the temperature quickly rise as she breathed in the dusty air of the road. Her eyes slowly observed the tall grass along either side of the road, wilting under the hot sun. But despite seeing how the grass drooped from the heat, she couldn't help but feel envious and imagined the flow of air through her hair. Each time a breeze passed and entered through the various openings of her helmet, it felt like a flash in the pan, the cool fading away to be replaced by an oven.

Despite how her body felt inside her armor, sweat dousing the clothes under them and running down her skin after oversaturating the fabric, she made sure not to reveal anything to the students behind her. She made sure to keep her back straight as she rode her horse. The knowledge of the students being able to observe her actions helped to keep her mind occupied and not think about how uncomfortable she felt.

It had been some time since they had turned onto the road, and now they were on the main path to Illumin. The sun was slowly making its descent toward the horizon.

Though she was happy for the coolness of the night, at the moment, her thoughts were preoccupied with trying to spot any forests. Even if the night was numerous hours away, finding a forest in the endless sea of grass of the grasslands would still take time. On top of that, time would be needed to cut down dead trees to use as firewood. Wood from a dead tree would be ideal.

William moved his horse closer to hers. "It seems the scouts have yet to find any spots to set up a camp." His voice was low, covered by the sound of armor and hoof steps.

It had been some time since the scouts ahead of them had returned. Only the one making sure no one was following their movements had returned to switch with another student while they rested.

She nodded. "We may need to think about what to do on the chance we do not locate an appropriate spot." She didn't mention continuing on the road and forgoing sleep. Gritting her teeth, the thought was left in her mind as an emergency.

The training they received would allow them to work for several days without sleep, but it would increase the chances that they'd make simple errors due to sleep deprivation. They may be able to shorten the trip but at the cost of making themselves vulnerable to unexpected threats. With that thought in mind, she didn't think it would be worth the time saved. She didn't even consider an obvious solution to their problems, understanding the dangers of over-relying on such resources.

Her heart beat strong in her chest due to their present location in the grassland. If it weren't for their horses, the grass on either side would be nearly as tall as them. The lack of visibility was often why bandits would be found in these areas, taking advantage of the environment.

They were in the grassland area where visibility was difficult, which was another reason she was hoping for a forest.

"Fortunately, we have yet to encounter any monsters or bandits." William sighed with relief.

Nodding. "This is true. Things would be far more problematic if we had to deal with even bandits. But even they would be preferential to dealing with chowon gwemuls. Those things are difficult to spot in areas like where we are." She slowly scanned the grass to make sure that there were no unnatural movements. As the breeze blew, the grass swayed like the waves of a lake. The grass swaying was a typical flowing pattern and helped expose anything moving through it.

William shivered at her word, bowing his head as he prayed to the gods he followed.

She could understand his emotions. Bandits may be dangerous, but it was nothing compared to a pack of chowon gwemuls. Her lips curled into a snarl at the thought of the nasty and sneaky creatures.

Turning her head to check on the students, Valessandria could see that all of them were quiet as they scanned the tops of the grass. Since being on the main road to Illumin and entering the area where the grass grew taller, both columns of students were quiet. Instead of chatting and making jokes, the atmosphere was heavy with unknown pressure.

She didn't like to put her students in danger, but there was nothing they could do. The world was full of things that wouldn't have any issues, seeing them as a feast. The one solace she had was how their group was large enough to discourage most monsters from seeing them as prey. It was primarily bandits they had to worry about, considering what they were transporting. Even the most spineless bandit would overcome their trepidations and attack a readied group of Illumin students.

Putting her hand into one of the pouches around her waist, Valessandria opened it and searched for the familiar rough edges of a mana crystal. If it wasn't for her gloves, she knew that the mana would easily be absorbed through her skin and provide a sensation akin to touching charged metal -- a spark that was dull and merely tingled. Raising her visor to expose her face to the slightly cool breeze and breathing in the smell of grass, she glanced at the clear crystal barely the size of half her thumb. Even with it close to her nose, she could feel a slight rush as the concentrated mana was breathed in. Immediately, her senses felt charged, even if a little bit, and her weariness decreased. Her mouth couldn't help but salivate as it anticipated what would happen next. She opened her mouth and gently inserted it.

As soon as her tongue touched the crystal, the world appeared to brighten, and everything felt more alive. In the air, she could barely see what looked like blue pollen dancing and flowing along with the breeze. She couldn't help but smile, enjoying the feeling of the mana coursing through her body. It felt for a moment like anything was possible.

But the feeling quickly faded as she reined in the sensation, making sure not to allow it to influence her mind. The world still felt alive due to her increased exposure to mana but significantly subdued.

William looked at her, his brow furrowed, "Are you sure taking a mana crystal was appropriate?"

The mana crystal in her mouth was like a children's candy. With her heightened senses, the words William spoke were heard much clearer despite the helmet covering her ears. It was as though he were right next to her, and she didn't have her armor while they were in a silent room.

"I understand the associated risks, but things will worsen if we encounter chowon gwemuls. Right now, we are in an area where they are typically found, with the grass being this tall. There is also the fact that we need to spot a forest soon, so we can set up camp for the night." She sucked on the crystal, feeling like she was enjoying a poisonous treat.

Releasing a heavy sigh, "You may be right. And you are not the type to abuse those crystals."

The sun continued to journey through the sky as their group made their way through the ocean of grass, where the road was the only thing that helped to guide them. Surrounded by the tall grass was not the first time for them, considering forests and grasslands were mainly what existed around Illumin. But it also brought them a familiar feeling of having something just out of sight follow them. As the wind rustled the grass, many of the students grew anxious but were still able to restrain their emotions.

Valessandria continued to extend her senses around the group like a bubble that tried to detect anything other than the grass. Her mind tried to find movements that didn't match her students, the horses, William, and the wagon. She was never really talented in sensory magic though it was a skill necessary to have in her previous duties.

"Calm your mind," She relaxed and tried to shed away the world around her felt through her five senses. It was a complex process while balancing on the horse and trying to maintain some awareness of herself.

Slowly, the world melted away, and she found herself in darkness aside from a faint bluish glow. Entering the space while also performing a task in the outside world was akin to wrestling a stream, the water escaping her grasp if she was too aggressive. Looking down, the horse had a strange outline as though it was being filtered out. This was the case with William and the students behind her. As she turned her head, the grass was transparent like everything else she actively tried to keep out and not waste energy to detect. Without realizing her action, Valessandria licked the crystal in her mouth, and the world she saw became negligibly easier to hold onto.

Up above her, the bluish glow of the world faded, and only a black nothingness could be seen. She couldn't help but feel tempted to increase what she could see due to the crystal in her mouth, but the thought was quickly dismissed. While in the world, there were tendrils of fear slowly growing inside her the more she relied on the crystal.

"I am here just to monitor our immediate surroundings. I just need to gain a few seconds to help alert the group if something is approaching us." Valessandria tightly held onto the thought, forcing the temptation to ingest the crystal and absorb all the tantalizing mana in one sitting.

Checking through the grass, she sighed in relief to see that there was nothing around them.

"Is there anything out there?" The voice of William echoed in the world as though her mind was trying to conserve its energy and remove anything that didn't align with her purpose but would only take more mana from her.

There was a ripple in the world as William talked to her, making her reflexively try to hold onto the state of mind that was precariously balanced. His words were like him tossing a ball as she juggled other items far more dangerous. Licking the crystal, the world stabilized in her mind though the bluish light decreased proportionately. Taking a slow deep breath, she waited until she felt things had stabilized. She slowly shook her head, feeling the mana in the air react to her distraction.

William stayed silent, understanding the struggle of maintaining the mental world created when using sensory magic on the scale Valessandria was working with. The delicately held world that allowed the user to see their surroundings could shatter instantly from even the slightest lax in concentration.

Valessandria's lips wordlessly moved, chanting out the words that helped her to concentrate. "Everything is an illusion. My mind is the world. The flow of mana reveals all." Repeatedly the words silently poured out of her mouth to help maintain her ties to the area around her.

No longer did the heat bother her, but even then, she could feel the sweat dripping down her face. A drop of sweat traveled down her to her eye. There was a stinging sensation, but all she did was slowly blink and attempt to clear the salty liquid. It helped that the pain felt dulled though her surroundings trembled, ready to burst. Continuing with the words, Valessandria fought to maintain her concentration, knowing that she'd need to retain it until they reached an appropriate place to rest. The mana inside her slowly decreased like a hole at the bottom of a bucket. Even with the crystal, the fact that she didn't crush it in her mouth and swallow the pieces made it so the rate at which her mana reserves were being used was greater than what the crystal supplemented. Fortunately, it helped reduce the rate at which the energy inside her was consumed.

---

William shook his head as he watched Valessandria try to detect any dangers in the area.

"She is pushing herself too hard," He grimaced, wishing there was something he could do.

The issue was that though he knew how to use sensory magic, from his experience, his technique was significantly worse than hers. Even with a mana crystal in his mouth, the exchange would be too severe, and he'd run out of mana within an hour. Worse, if a monster or bandit attacked their group, he'd need to take another crystal. He shivered at the thought of taking more than one in a day. Licking his lips, William tried not to imagine the feeling of power he'd gain upon taking a crystal. The fact that his body was so eager made him feel warier of the crystal. That was on top of how most people who used sensory magic could barely hold onto the necessary state of mind, even with minor distractions. It was one of the reasons why only a few tried to develop proficiency with sensory magic.

William tightened his fist, wishing there was something he could do to lessen her burden but knowing there wasn't anything he could do. He just needed to focus on guiding their group to a camp so that she could rest for the night.

Seeing the sun getting closer to the horizon with nothing in sight for them to stay safely in the grasslands, William prayed for any help.

---

Valessandria licked the crystal, the world inside her mind shaking upon her tongue touching the crystalized mana and finding that it had shrunk dramatically compared to when she had first begun sucking on it. Her body trembled, and sweat poured down her face, even with the day starting to cool.

"Everything is an illusion. My mind is the world. The flow of mana reveals all." She desperately clung to the words like they were some blanket she'd hold in her arms as she slept, scared that the monsters would return.

Even with the mana crystal and her mental state, employing sensory magic was a struggle. It didn't help that she hadn't had a chance to rest. Using such magic was already tricky when one was fully rested, so trying to keep an eye out all around her and the group was taxing her mind. The only thing allowing her to merge with the current of mana that allowed her to spread out her consciousness was the combination of her chanting and the crystal rapidly dissolving in her mouth.

So far, there had been no signs of monsters and a lack of any forests for them to stop.

"There is about an hour before the sun sets," William reported, just like he had been to allow her to know how much time had passed. He paused for a bit. "What do you want us to do?" His voice was low to not rip her from her mental state.

Clenching her teeth, Valessandria didn't trust her ability to maintain the mental world. Carefully, she used one hand and pointed forward, using a standard hand signal they trained students to use when oral communication wasn't ideal. Even with the slight hand movement, she clenched her teeth harder as cracks started to form but were soon healed as she regained her mental concentration.

As the last of the crystal dissolved, she let out a trembling breath and slowly withdrew her consciousness from around them. Compared to when she first began spreading herself into the surrounding terrain, the task of bringing everything back into her mind was as easy as floating along a calm river.

The world slowly came back into focus, though her surroundings were slightly blurry. With one hand, she held her head, trembling from the hours spent in the mental world, a task she hadn't needed to perform for years. Valessandria breathed in the air that felt alive compared to when she used sensory magic -- dulled to help her conserve the precious mana inside her and the crystal. Lifting her visor, she could now see how her hands shook like they did the first time she entered a battlefield. It felt like everything had been drained from her body, and even staying on the horse pushed her past her limits.

"My Lady," William gently placed a hand on her shoulder.

Valessandria jerked as she reached for her sword, her eyes wide in alarm. It was only at the last moment that she recognized her Second.

William's brows raised with concern, clearly understanding what she was experiencing.

"Sorry, William," Valessandria attempted to smile as her face poured with cold sweat as though she had been woken from a nightmare. Her heart beat fast as adrenaline pumped throughout her body.

"Were you..."

Valessandria shook her head. Taking in a shuddering breath, still feeling like an animal ready to bolt upon detecting a predator, "I could not see too far around us. Not even a quarter of a mile." She grimaced.

Raising her head to locate the sun, she could see that it wouldn't be long until the sun finally set, and they'd be dipped into darkness.

Returning her attention to William, "I could not even see the scouts we had sent out."

Her Second was silent, understanding the implications.

Even if they hadn't found anything to report back to them, it was still expected that they'd have returned at least once. The fact that the scouts hadn't returned had a chill run down her back.

"I want everyone prepared to engage once the sun goes down," Valessandria ordered.

"As you command," William saluted. Before turning his horse, "Mana crystals?"

Without even taking a moment to consider, she shook her head. "Unless it gets to that point, I do not want people using those things. I would rather risk my own safety."

William nodded before directing his horse and making his way back.

Thinking about what lay ahead, her hands trembled as she touched the bag on her waist. Even though it wasn't possible to feel the mana inside them, she couldn't help but imagine the alluring charge of energy fluttering against her fingertips.

---

Klaus guided his horse forward, his mind focused on trying to spot any threats to his fellow group members and the Lady Knight behind him. His eyes scanned the tall grass, desperate to find any signs of a forest for them to camp the night. Making sure to stay moving and not stay still for too long, he also kept an eye out for any signs of movement.

He couldn't help but remember the class he had taken the prior year, explaining the types of monsters that could be found in the nearby area. And the one he didn't look forward to encountering was what typically used the grasslands as a home. He shivered slightly, remembering the image of the long monster moving quickly in the terrain's cover in the book. Even worse was how they were just as clever as bandits.

Looking up at the sky, he frowned, knowing it was far past when he should've returned and reported what he had seen. But he also knew that everyone was hoping for rest, and he and the other scouts were the only ones that could offer such an opportunity.

"I'll just stay out for another hour. If I head back now, I'll have to waste time returning to this point."

Klaus checked to make sure that he had the road still in sight. The last thing he needed to do was to get lost. Fortunately, the sun was a good reference point to help guide him back to the road. In the grasslands, there weren't many places that indicated civilization. The roads were the only reason people risked entering such treacherous terrains.

Having given himself enough time to regain his strength, he focused and guided the mana inside his body toward his eyes and ears -- using sensory magic to help enhance his vision and hearing. It was nothing compared to what the older students at the Academy could perform, where they created a sphere around them to detect any movement, but it was enough for him. His vision strengthened, and he could immediately spot where the grass parted in a straight line.

Sensing the mana slowly being pulled from his body, he slowly scanned the surroundings to see if he could spot any trees.

---

"What do you want us to do?"

Valessandria sighed at the question, the sky turning orange to signal the arrival of night. Despite their best efforts, they had not found a suitable location to camp for the night, and now it was time for her to make a decision about how they'd proceed. She felt torn, knowing that rest was necessary for the group but also knowing the dangers in the grassland terrain. In addition to whether they should proceed or not, the scouts sent out ahead of them had yet to return.

"Do you want to send out more students to try to locate the scouts?"

Looking at William, she saw his hands tightly clenched into a fist. "I know you want to send people to find them, but you know I can not do that."

He bit his lips to stop himself from arguing with her.

She could understand why he felt frustrated, but she also knew that he understood why such authorization was unreasonable. They may only be trainees under the Disciplinary Committee, but even bandits would have a tough time handling them. That was in addition to how the students would know that protocol dictated that escape was all that mattered and to avoid any confrontation. This meant not returning had something to do with their inability to escape.

In her mind, she attempted to anticipate what would prevent the students from returning. What she did predict was how whatever prevented them from returning would attack them once night came. All around them were the tall grass of the grasslands, a terrain that allowed many things to conceal themselves. When dealing with an unknown threat, it was the type of environment that was the worse to engage in combat.

Behind her, the students were already pulling out portable mana crystal lamps. The bright light of the lamps fighting off the long shadows already emerging due to the sun beginning to go beyond the horizon.

"I want a few of the students able to use sensory magic to be on rotation, just enhancing their vision and hearing. There should be two on each side of the formation and one behind. If they hear anything, I want them to immediately report it. I do not care if the sound is made by a harmless rodent." She ordered.

"As you command," William stiffly answered as he made his way back to the students behind them.

She let out a long sigh, knowing William was unhappy with her.

Turning to the saddlebag on the other side of her water canteen, she pulled out the portable lamp. Opening the device up, she pressed a switch. In moments, a light began to grow as the mechanism inside was powered by the unrefined mana crystal. Adjusting the metal blinds so that the light didn't kill her night vision, she moved it to the other side of her so that the light was shown on the tall grass.

Grimacing, Valessandria didn't enjoy how the light made the grass feel more ominous with how innumerable shadows were made as the light poured out of the lamp onto the plants.

She could hear behind her the movement of the students as they got into position, trying to sense anything approaching their group. Compared to in the daylight, William's voice wasn't as loud. It was as if he was concerned about attracting anything beyond their view and concealed in the dark.

With the sun having set and the moon and stars replacing it in the sky, she couldn't help but feel a similar ominous sensation as the night before upon approaching the enigmatic pyramid. There was a strange mood that she couldn't shake off of her.

Looking ahead on the road, Valessandria felt a shiver pass over her as she saw the nothingness where the light from the lamps failed to penetrate.

"Stop being a child. You are the Lady Knight of Illumin. This is not the first time you have traveled such a path." She chastised herself and tried to regain much of the mental strength she seemed to have misplaced after that night.

"Lady Knight?"

She jumped slightly but realized that it was William returning to his position next to her.

The lamp was already set up on his horse, illuminating the other side but casting a slight shadow on his figure, which gave him a sinister appearance. It reminded her of how she and her classmates would try to scare one another as they told ghost stories instead of sleeping inside the dormitories.

But once he approached her, the light leaking from her side helped to remove some of the darkness and allowed her to see his eyes searching her face as though trying to understand what the issue was.

"Are you okay?" William reached out a hand and placed it on her back.

Wearily nodding her head, "Sorry. I guess the lack of sleep and using the sensory magic is catching up to me."

He removed his hand and paused before saying, "I would suggest that we camp here for the night, clearing out enough space to help defend our position..."

Valessandria nodded, comprehending what he had left out. The fact that the scouts failed to return meant that this region was far more dangerous than usual. Not only would they be exposed with no good terrain advantage, but they also didn't know what was out in the grassland and whether it was actively stalking them.

"Let us just pick up our pace for a bit. There is still the chance that the students ahead are making their way back after trying to find a place for us to rest." She tried to offer an excuse for the students to be missing. But deep down, her instincts were informing her that the students were either eaten or killed. Even with bandits, there would be no benefits to keeping them hostage when silencing them would be easier.

Signaling to her horse, Valessandria increased the speed they were traveling.

Behind her, both columns of students followed. There were no questions or doubts as to why they were moving faster, likely agreeing that they needed to return to Illumin as quickly as possible.

The lamp resting on the horse's side bounced and made the shadows dance. Occasionally casting what appeared to be faces and eyes between the stalks as though the inky darkness itself were tracking their movements.

---

Raising the visor to his helmet, Klaus stared at something he didn't know what to think and something which made him break out into a cold sweat, understanding the implications of his discovery. His mind screaming at him for why he wasn't running immediately back to the group.

His horse snorted as if to tell him how he needed to follow protocol, especially after encountering something significant.

"I know," Klaus looked back at the horse before turning his head to observe what his lamp's light was illuminating and would likely haunt him for a long while. In front of him could only be described as a lake of blood, an amount so tremendous that it wasn't able to be absorbed by the ground. With a simple glance, he imagined the width to be several horses wide but not very deep. It wouldn't even leak into his footwear if he were to step into it -- though ridding the blood from them would be another matter.

If it hadn't been for his horse reacting to the smell of the blood in the air, he thought it would be unlikely that he would've stumbled upon the horrifying sight. His eyes slowly examined the red blood as he directed his lamp to provide better illumination. Though he wanted to increase the light by opening the shade more, a whisper in his mind warned against such action. The blood still glistened under the light, indicating that it wasn't a significant amount of time since the massacre had occurred.

There was a glimmer that captured his attention. Despite knowing that he should immediately retreat back to the group, he also knew it would be vital for the Lady Knight to have as much information as possible. As his body trembled like a leaf in the wind, he carefully moved closer and crouched to see what the light had discovered. His stomach immediately dropped upon finding out what it was. Jerking back, his feet were swift at helping him regain his balance, so he didn't fall back onto the dirt or the blood.

It was a long deadly claw attached to the leg of what could only be a chowon gwemul. The long brown fur of the monster was drenched entirely in its own blood. Making sure not to step in the blood, Klaus attempted to get a better view. If compared to an individual, the place where it was cut off was just below the knee joint. Moving his lamp closer, the area of the leg where it was removed wasn't clean like it would be from a sword. His eyes widened upon realizing what the pattern reminded him of. The wound was jagged and messy, as though something had feasted on the chowon gwemul. Dined on something that made even trained soldiers nervous about encountering.

Raising his head to look at the immense pool of viscous red blood, a thought gradually came into focus. He remembered how the chowon gwemul was a type of monster traveling in packs when hunting prey, with their bodies longer than a horse.

Klaus felt his throat become dry. As the wind blew and made the grass around him sway, he jumped -- pulled out of his thoughts.

"What in the world could gorge on chowon gwemuls in their natural environment, and how could we not hear them?" His hands trembled as he stood.

Despite how being out in the grasslands and taking on a scouting task wasn't his first and something he was relatively familiar with, there was never a time when he felt so alone in the dark. Instead of the light being a solace to him, it made his surroundings darker, as though it was delaying and observing when would be an adequate time to devour him.

As the grass swayed in the wind, he couldn't help but imagine that it sounded closer to the rustling of insect wings. He couldn't help but shiver as his eyes tried to penetrate the dark. For a moment, Klaus thought about enhancing his senses to see if he could spot any additional clues but standing next to an enormous amount of relatively fresh blood removed the bravery he felt any other time. Backing away slowly while looking at the grass, he cautiously maneuvered closer to his horse.

"I think you're right about us getting back with the others," Klaus looked back to his horse which was digging into the ground with one of its front hooves. Even more, than him, it wanted to get away -- discipline being the only thing keeping it stationary and waiting for its rider.

Securing the lamp on one of the straps, he quickly jumped onto the back of it. Grabbing the reins, his eyes darted to the sky to check the position of the stars and figure out where the road would be located. The last thing he wanted to do was flee in the opposite direction of safety.

Off to his side, Klaus heard the sound of clicking noises and a deep low buzzing that seemed to reverberate in his chest. Not wasting even a second more, he adjusted his weight and signaled the horse to go into a full gallop, wanting to flee from whatever was making the unusual yet familiar sounds.

Despite the refreshing wind on his skin, he didn't pay any attention as he desperately moved towards the road leading to the Lady Knight and the others. He didn't even bother to check behind him to see if any monster was chasing after him. Still, there was no doubt in his mind that if he hadn't fled as quickly as possible, it was a real likelihood that he'd be consumed just like the pack of chowon gwemuls. As his horse galloped towards the road, he tried to ignore the stray thoughts in his mind, such as where the bodies were.

---

Valessandria tried not to think about their horses as they quickly moved through the grassland, the dread in her chest not having faded. She couldn't help but feel the sense that they were being hunted was related to her instincts. It urged her that they needed to get out of the area as soon as possible.

Though the moon and stars above were the same as any other night, there was nothing ordinary about their current circumstances.

Despite feeling fatigued, she was only able to push herself further, thanks to the thoughts racing through their mind.

"A horse!"

She turned her head to look back at one of the students tasked with using sensory magic to detect anything out of the norm.

"I hear it as well!" The second student chimed in on the same side as the first.

Hearing that two of the students on the same side had detected the sound of a horse, she couldn't help feeling relieved to know it could be one of the scouts sent out ahead of them. The fact that the scouts hadn't returned was one of the factors that made their surroundings feel far more dangerous than usual. So to hear that one of the scouts could be returning and with potential information that could shed light on what they could expect made her smile with relief.

Valessandria's eyes desperately stared at the tall grass that flew by as their group galloped forward, hopeful of finding out what was happening and why she was feeling a similar sensation as when her eyes were exposed to the horrors that lay beyond the pyramid. The inner voice screamed and pleaded that the students were wrong, and there wasn't any sound of a horse. How they needed to escape from the grasslands.

Wanting to clear her mind of the bubbling anxiety piled on top of their current mission and what she had experienced in Leaf Village -- exposed to a being that shouldn't exist in their plane of reality -- for a moment, her hands twitched towards the pouch containing the mana crystals. Her mind shrieked at the dangers and how it wished the exhaustion would end and things to be better. On the horse, racing on the worn road, balancing herself on top, was just another layer of stress piled on. Despite the awareness, a thought oozed alluringly past all the warnings. Just another crystal to help alleviate all her weariness. Merely one more to help her through the nightmare.

Clenching her hand on the reins, she forcefully shifted her concentration to finding the scout that had returned. The scout would need a competent leader, not someone saddled by stray thoughts. It was all on her shoulders to get them all back alive to Illumin.

Scowling, Valessandria knew that once she returned, the Student Council would have words with her about how she had positioned students under her care in danger. Regardless of how many innocent villagers were to be slaughtered by the blight the Lunar Empire had become, many of the members would regard what happened to a small remote village with apathy. Though they would claim that, as the Student Council, their obligation was to the students of the Academy, deep down, she knew that they were far more interested in preserving the balance which allowed Illumin to be independent. The independence of Illumin was directly linked to the Council holding sole power over the city.

Gritting her teeth, she cursed the Student Council and how they behaved with their unquenchable greed. But it was also their desire for power and what she was carrying to Illumin, which would allow her to evade much of the punishment she'd have normally been sentenced to after flouting their will.

"THERE!"

Valessandria's eyes snapped towards where William had pointed, her heart feeling slightly relieved. Though the other scouts sent ahead of them may not return, at least one would return. She could feel a little of the weight on her ease.

Exploding out of the tall grass was a horse covered in lacerations. Rivers of blood poured down its body as it crumpled on the road -- a pool of blood forming outwards as its sides rose and fell from exhaustion and trauma.

Witnessing the horse lying on its side, her eyes frantically searched for any indications of a rider.

Raising a fist and yanking on the reins, causing her horse to dig its hooves into the ground. The only thing preventing her from flying over its head was how tightly she clenched the saddle with her thighs. However, it still didn't stop her bottom from lifting slightly off the seat.

"HOLD!" William shot out an arm simultaneously at the students behind him.

Behind her, there were yells as students desperately stopped their horses. A few curses were thrown at others who had nearly run into them. The lights from lamps swung all over the place and added to the chaos.

Neither William nor Valessandria paid attention as their eyes rested on the horse.

Leaping off from the back of the horse, she dashed towards the dying animal. Her breath ragged as she dragged every ounce of remaining strength into her legs. Despite not seeing a rider, her mind attempted to convince her that the student must have fallen off at the last moment.

"LADY KNIGHT! WAIT!"

Her ears barely heard the words from her seconds as she urgently approached the horse. But as she got closer, her eyes widened as they took in the sight of what had happened. As the sides of the horse began to slow and it struggled to breathe, its mouth was coated in red foam. Noticing Valessandria and recognizing her, the legs of the horse awkwardly and ineffectively moved as it endeavored to fulfill the last of its duty.

Crouching next to the horse, tears spilled down her face as she placed a tender hand on the neck of the loyal animal. It was like a hose had been opened as the pent-up stress flooded out of her heart as though it wanted to drown the world with her grief.

"You did good," She struggled to smile.

Feeling her hand on its neck and hearing her words, it was as though the desperation it showed was replaced with relief. Soon the flow of blood stopped gurgling out from the wounds all over its body, and she could feel the muscles on its neck relax.

Footsteps were heard approaching her, but she didn't acknowledge William.

"Lady Knight."

Valessandria removed her hand from the loyal animal and undid the strap to her helmet. Pulling it over her head, she let it tumble to the ground. Freed from the sweltering heat, the air would've felt refreshing to her under any other circumstance. Mutely, she attacked the straps to her armored gloves until they loosened and slipped from her hands. Wearily placing her shuddering hand on her face, she didn't bother to move and was thankful to William for not saying anything.

"They are all dead..." Valessandria simply let the obvious statement hang in the air.

There was a silence aside from the sounds of horses dozens of feet away from their position. Despite being curious about what had occurred and why they had stopped in such a manner, none of the students raised a ruckus now that they had regained control. A few horses snorted and let their riders know they didn't appreciate the harsh treatment earlier, though even they attempted to stay as quiet as possible.

Taking a long deep breath and letting the night air flow into her lungs, Valessandria's lips silently moved as she attempted to get a handle. Crouching on the ground as she covered her face, she barely registered how even her thoughts were silent as if equally exhausted by reality. For a moment, there wasn't any concern about how much time had passed, whether there was something out in the tall grass, getting back to Illumin, being lectured by the Student Council, or even the encroachment of the Lunar Empire into the Helios Kingdom. A burst of sardonic laughter sprayed out her mouth, realizing that even the mysterious young noble hadn't crossed her mind for once since the first accursed meeting with him.

She felt a hand on her back, and soon everything that didn't seem to matter gradually came into focus and back into her consciousness. As though emerging from the dirt road, what felt like roots penetrated through the armored boots and pierced into her flesh. They crawled beneath her skin, deeper into her weary body, and continued throughout her body. Each tendril was a reminder of everything happening in the world and demanded her undivided attention, refusing to allow her to forget that they existed and she had yet to escape from her duties. She could feel them crawl and squirm under her skin as they made their way up her back and burrow into her mind.

They served to remind her of the responsibilities she held as the Lady Knight and to get her people back to safety. Removing her hand and taking in a slow breath of the cool air, even using her hand to toss her sweat-drenched blonde hair off the back of her neck before it clung back to her armor. Strangely even with the helmet removed, there was no sense of release. Her shoulders were again heavy with the decisions needing to be made.

Slowly getting up, Valessandria felt her legs tremble, her body struggling to stand with all the armor she still had on her. She gritted her teeth and vowed her body would get the rest it required once they returned to Illumin. She tried to disregard how the destination felt worlds away from where they stood in the dark of a lethal area and already having lost members to mysterious creatures.

"You... going to be alright?" William began to reach out to support his leader before wavering and returning his hand to his side.

She nodded, comprehending why he would be concerned. Straightening, a groan escaped from her mouth. Her head, for a moment, felt light and caused her to take a step forward to preserve her balance. But the wave only lasted for a fleeting moment, likely stemming from the weariness built up from the long day on top of the tension and emotional pain upon learning that the people she had sent out were eaten or killed by whatever was in the grassland.

"My Lady..."

Waving a hand, Valessandria shook her head. "I do not think I can avoid it, especially with how things are advancing."

"Are you sure?" William raised an eyebrow.

Sighing, "Unfortunately, being conservative in our current situation would not be wise and could cause us to forfeit more men." She reached into the pouch that held the crystals. Without the gloves, the moment her hands made contact, there was a muted charge from her skin exposed to the refined crystals. Pulling one out, she held it in her hands. The effects were nearly immediate, even in her hands. She could feel her mind shrugging out the fatigue like one would remove a thick blanket off of themselves on a frigid morning and be mentally awakened by the cold hanging in the air.

Rather than letting it be in her mouth, she decided to keep the crystal in her hands. Fortunately, the rate at which her body would absorb the mana would be notably less than if she placed it into her mouth. The hazard of the crystal would be less, even if it was refined.

Grinning, "Feeling better?"

She nodded, the world becoming vibrant and humming. What she relished was how much of her confidence and strength oozed throughout her body. It helped her regain the resolve which allowed her to survive in such an environment that came with her life path, especially after becoming an orphan early in her life. But a portion of her mind was aware of how much of it was synthetic. It stemmed from the item supplementing her mental faculties. Her mind still needed time to wind down and have a chance to process everything. She comforted herself with this fact. This was only a bandage. An emergency measure.

Even with her sharper vision, mana was redirected into her eyes and ears, the sensory magic helping to pull in all the details around her. Seeing a flashing of lights around them, she turned her head towards the light.

A student rushed up to where the two stood, next to the lifeless horse. In the student's hands were portable mana lamps.

"Lady Knight," The student slowed and approached her and William.

William reached out for both lamps. Keeping one for himself, he passed the other one to Valessandria. He then turned to the student, "I want a perimeter set up around this horse, at least fifteen horses wide. While cutting down the grass, report any clues that may be discovered."

The student saluted and quickly darted back to the two columns to transmit the order.

With the lamp in her free hand, she illuminated the horse. Her eyes, boosted by her mana, widened upon catching how the injuries weren't aligned with what she was used to witnessing from an attack.

Indicating with a finger, "Assuming that the horse had not stopped and kept on going, what do you make of the length of the gash?" She directed her attention to William, hoping that she was imagining, and arrived at the wrong conclusion despite the help of the mana crystal.

William stared at the horse, a hand on his chin. Time slowly passed, but his eyes stared at the slash she indicated on the horse's side.

Behind them, the students assembled teams, with each appointed leader giving out commands to their group. Two were assigned to stand close to Valessandria and William, directing their attention to the other side of the road. Each of them had placed their lamps to hang from the side of their waist to allow their hands to be free to use their swords if necessary.

Other groups began using their swords to slash at the tall grass while also keeping an eye out for any of the native monsters. As the night passed by them, slowly, a perimeter was constructed to permit them to see anything that would approach them, even under the cover of the night.

Valessandria shifted her attention to the students, frowning at if her decision was correct for them to stop. The problem was that if they were to continue toward Illumin without properly making an assessment, it could have a negative impact. On top of that, seeing the injuries on the horse gave her a sour feeling, like something was off about the situation. It was why she hoped that William would put her mind at ease and assert that what she was thinking was utterly off the mark.

The grasslands were already perilous, even if not more so than any other region depending on the time of year, as predators became active for whatever reason, whether for the mating season or to prepare for the season becoming colder. There was also the persistent reminder of The Overflow, which is set to arrive soon. Seeing the unusual patterns on the horse and the students that failed to return made her concerned that there was a connection. And if it was due to The Overflow, then the Student Council would need to be notified. Preparations would need to be made.

"These slashes are too long for swords and don't match up with chowon gwemul attack patterns." William broke his silence.

Looking to William, "Why do you think that? In this area, if an attack is not caused by bandits, the likelihood is great that it would be a chowon gwemul." Her stomach slowly began to sink as she tried to offer alternatives to the deduction she had also arrived at.

William turned his head to look at her, his eyes directly looking into hers. He was already cognizant that she knew why it couldn't be the case. "These are not wounds from the claws of a chowon gwemul."

Clenching her teeth before relaxing, Valessandria nodded, "That is what I was afraid of." She directed her attention to the horse. Staring at the wounds on the horse and not recognizing the injury marks on top of the student not returning, "This means that this is much worse than what we could hope for."

Though she initially thought of finding more evidence to present to the council, the problem was that the wounds on the horse were significantly vicious compared to a chowon gwemul.

The two stood while haunted by the evidence in front of them. In the background, the sounds of students cutting down the tall grass continued, which would help to provide extra security. Each of the students worked diligently despite the disadvantageous conditions. Several groups walked around the perimeter to make sure that nothing was overlooked as they opened the area.

"Lady Knight, I advise that we take drastic measures and return to Illumin as quickly as possible. We are not prepared to handle this, and the Student Council -- in addition to the Adventurer's Guild -- must be briefed on this matter." William didn't remove his eyes from the horse as he quietly shared his thoughts.

She furrowed her brow, reading between the lines of her Second's words. The idea of having all of them consume the mana crystals didn't sit well in her mind. Letting out a long sigh, she merely nodded.

Receiving her order, William turned towards the area where students were constructing the perimeter. "Suspend the creation of the perimeter." His voice thundered and caused everyone to halt what they were doing and turn toward him. "We are in an emergency situation. With the authorization of the Lady Knight, all of you are ordered to consume a mana crystal and regain your strength."

Several of the students flinched at the order. While others raised their eyebrows and widened their eyes at hearing something none expected, even with how fatigued they were.

Valessandria knew that the students would be confused, considering all the training they had received. To have trainees take mana crystals wasn't something to be taken lightly and only stressed how things had turned a dark corner.

"Keep an eye out with your fellow members and report any issues. We will immediately return towards Illumin with no stops and at full speed. Members are allowed to change horses when necessary, but priority is to be placed into getting far away from here."

Hearing William give such commands caused the air to become heavier as the full weight of their situation came into mind for each student. Though it could've been compared to when they were asked to support Leaf Village to support against the Empire, this time was different since they had lost classmates. A few members whispered amongst themselves before they began to reach into their leather pouches to pull out a mana crystal and place it into their mouths.

Valessandria noticed how the students straightened their backs as energy flooded their bodies. A few even grinned at the increased power, though the more experienced members instantly chastised them. She nodded approvingly, glad to see that each member was observing and making sure the younger students didn't get carried away with the influences of the crystal. This meant their training worked appropriately, which was forever unknown until a real-world scenario occurred.

Placing the crystal into her mouth, her body stiffened as the flow of mana increased. She began breathing in deeply and letting the air out to help her gain control. Having already consumed a crystal, she needed to maintain her body's inner balance. Closing her eyes, she cracked her neck and took a moment to calm herself. Feeling the increased mana inside her, she felt like she was lighter. She opened her eyes and proceeded to pick up her helmet and gloves. Returning to the tunneled vision that the helmet provided and having her gloves on, she turned around and made her way back to her horse. William followed immediately behind her.

"The real question is whether we will encounter any of those creatures, whatever they are," William frowned as they reached their horses. He quickly used the lamp to check to make sure all the straps were good before attaching the light and getting back on.

She didn't even want to answer his question, fully aware that their group could be forced into engaging with creatures beyond their training if they did encounter the monsters -- especially ones in the same area as chowon gwemuls. Going against the Empire would be insanity with their forces. Still, it didn't mean it would be hopeless, considering they'd be going up against other humans. But there was no telling how their group would be able to adapt to monsters that they weren't familiar with. This was on top of them having limited experience dealing with monsters. There wouldn't be many that could even remember the last Overflow, let alone having fought against the unspeakable things that devoured everything that moved. It might as well be a blight on the world.

Valessandria struggled to hold back her thoughts and suspicions about the wounds on the horse. Just like William, she quickly glanced at her horse and returned the lamp to where it was before she got off.

Behind them, one of the older students approached them on his horse. "I would like to report that all members of the Disciplinary Committee present are ready for your orders."

William turned to the student, "Good job. Make sure everyone knows that we will be moving with the objective of getting out of here, not getting into a fight. Focus on moving forward but also keep one eye on our surroundings." Seeing that the student understood, he waved for them to return to their position.

Valessandria took a moment to make sure that everyone was good before she commanded, "BACK TO ILLUMIN!" Dirt was flung into the air as her mount propelled itself into the night.

"ILLUMIN!" Everyone behind her shouted and chased after her.

The wind flowed through the opening of her helmet, blowing cool air on her face. Compared to how they raced to reach Leaf Village in fear of not making it in time to help them out, the sensation she felt was the complete opposite. Flashes of her mind transported her back to times when she fled from tsunamis of danger, never knowing whether she'd return home. But despite the menace, the thought persisted: how she would return to Illumin even if she had to crawl using only her hands. Gritting her teeth, her instincts told her that something was coming to not only Illumin but also all the nearby powers. She couldn't help but believe that the Lunar Empire would only be a minute player on the massive playing board.

---

The sun began to rise, slowly pushing back the night sky like a flaming orange spear and clearing away the oppressive air they had to travel through. With the arrival of the morning, Valessandria couldn't help but feel a tear starting to form as they raced down the road. They had yet to encounter any of the monsters that had left behind the distinctive markings on the horse, in addition to evading encounters with the chowon gwemuls.

Her eyes gazed with elation upon seeing the high walls like the face of a sheer impenetrable cliff surrounding one of the greatest independent cities she had ever seen. "We made it," She sighed with relief upon seeing her home. With how the sun struck the walls, it blazed like a beacon to their group, greeting them back into its protective arms.

As though symbolizing that their treacherous journey was over, the tall grass that had surrounded them ended. The terrain was opened at least a mile away from the city. Though the grass would still be taller than what would be found inside the city, it was to the degree of being around knee height.

Upon witnessing the city walls, William raised a hand to indicate the group to slow down and give their horses some time to recover after racing for so long towards their destination.

There were cheers behind her as the students praised their arrival and escaped the nightmare they had experienced. Though she felt the desire to reprimand them for letting their guard down, she couldn't help but empathize with their sentiments. Never before had the roads been as treacherous as they had been for them the night before. It was unusual and something she'd need to bring attention to later when she met with the Student Council and the Adventurer's Guild's leadership.

But as her eyes glanced at the surroundings of the city, she saw the forest of tents of prospective students waiting to be accepted to the Academy and allowed to become residents of the city. Compared to when she left for Leaf Village, there were far more tents and prospective students waiting outside the wall, making her think that more students had arrived while they were gone. She presumed they came from the capital and other more populated locations. With their large number, they would be unlikely to be attacked by bandits or monsters.

As they approached the sea of tents, her eyes caught a few insignias on the portable houses, in addition to guards keeping an eye out for any trouble. Even though this time of year, when new students arrive, the city would provide security for all participants, there would always be those who would have security specifically for when they camped outside the walls of Illumin. A few guards noticed the insignia on her horse that indicated her being the head of the Disciplinary Committee. They bowed their head and greeted her.

She nodded at the guards, aware of her reputation among those with power. But even if they didn't care for her, there was no chance that they would directly oppose her since she was part of the Student Council -- the supreme power of Illumin. Letting out a sigh, she questioned whether being in the grassland where monsters roamed or exposed to the cutthroat nature of the nobility and those with resources was worse.

While passing by the tents, she did notice the families that had formed a makeshift tent with a blanket to at least protect them against the sun. Observing their clothing and seeing that it was barely hanging from their bodies, she frowned. Leaning her head close to William, "I want you to find out what the Peacekeeper Company is doing and why they aren't providing resources to those who need them. Have them write a report about the people outside and how they will distribute aid. Even if not all the people here will become students, I still want those who attend to be taken care of while they are our guests."

"The different companies do seem to be slacking at their jobs, considering how dangerous the roads have become." William's voice was flat.

The only thing the Peacekeeper Company seemed to be doing properly was making their rounds through the camps and the immediate area, ensuring that fights and disputes weren't getting out of hand. But this was the bare minimum of their duties. She made a mental note to send out Disciplinary Committee members to keep an eye on things. With how strange the monsters were behaving, at least in the grassland they traveled through, she refused to have any loss of life.

"I think someone realized you returned," William pointed with his chin.

Raising an eyebrow at his comment, Valessandria checked out ahead of them, and her eyes widened slightly upon seeing five people from the Special Division of the Academy Guards approaching her. Seeing them, a groan escaped from her mouth.

"If they are here, I suspect the President is not happy with your actions." William chuckled. "I bet they were ordered to stay at the entrance until you arrived."

Rolling her eyes, "I can imagine our dear President doing that. He tends to not be pleased when someone intentionally disregards his orders."

Even if they were a separate force that had no oversight from the Student Council, basically allowing them to do whatever they thought was necessary to keep Illumin safe, she had to grudgingly admit that she got pretty close to the line of what she was authorized to do as the Lady Knight. And finding out that she had taken students and resources to charge into a battle they would have no hope of winning on top of losing students, it didn't take much effort to hear Nathanial yelling at her for how foolish she was. It wasn't unreasonable that she'd be thrown in jail for her insubordination. Even if it wasn't for an extended period, sleeping in the jails wasn't something she enjoyed.

As the members of the Special Division approached them, they slowed and gave a quick salute. One of the members in front moved her horse closer. "Lady Knight! We are happy to see you safely arrive." Despite the welcoming words and smiling, the smile failed to reach her eyes. Her blue eyes slowly scanned the students behind Valessandria as though tallying up the numbers and comparing them to a mental list. Returning her attention to Valessandria, the Special Division member lacked any warmth and was direct, "Upon spotting you from the wall, we have sent out members to report your return to the Council. We are to notify you that the President demands your presence and has asked that we escort you so you may give your report. I would hate for you to lose your way." The woman smirked.

Valessandria couldn't help but smile, seeing how the Special Division member was itching to drag her down from her horse and treat her like a common criminal, but even after her disregard for the Council's order related to Leaf Village, as the Lady Knight and head of the Disciplinary Committee -- meant that she could be seen as the leader of the Academy Guards. Though she didn't have any influence on the Special Division, it signified the woman couldn't outright show disrespect.

Seeing the smile on her face, the Special Division member scowled, clearly not appreciating the response. The woman undoubtedly wanted to say something but managed to hold her tongue.

Sighing, Valessandria turned towards William, "Dismiss everyone and have them rest for the day. They still have classes tomorrow, so suspend training for a few days so they can catch up with their assignments. I also want you to supervise the delivery of the young lord's money to the Academy."

While William gave the orders, she motioned for her horse to move forward around the Special Division members. She watched as the groups began turning around to follow after her as though half expecting her to try and escape, causing her to scoff at the thought. Though she knew they were just doing their job and clearly didn't appreciate her disobeying the President's orders, seeing their fanatical attitude toward her was tiresome. But at the same time, she did understand. They were essential to Illumin's security as part of the Academy Guards and took their duties seriously.

Valessandria breathed deeply and slowly let it out. Even if she wasn't looking forward to the scolding she'd receive from the Student Council, she had to admit that, ultimately, it was better than traversing a hostile environment. As she passed by the tents and children excited to take part in the examinations, she couldn't help but smile. It always made her proud to be part of the Academy. She wanted to help create an environment that would allow children all over the nearby area to receive an education that would enable them to improve their lives in addition to the societal benefits they could provide. Despite the flaws of the Student Council, she knew that it was far better than what was out in the world. Illumin was one of the few places where humans and non-humans were able to peacefully coexist, her mind thinking of the other nations that primarily focused on their own people.

The closer she approached the walls of Illumin, the more she couldn't help but admire them. They were so tall that when a person was close to them, it would seem as though the walls stretched out to the sky and were as impregnable as mountains. Illumin was a city that had survived numerous Overflows and helped to provide a sense of security for its inhabitants.

"I get emotional every time I see the walls from the outside. They are majestic."

Valessandria turned to the voice, "It does give a sense that everything will be fine as long as Illumin stands." She reached for the strap of her helmet and removed the oven from her head, enjoying the cool morning breeze, which was refreshing and didn't feel cold despite the sweat in her hair. Taking a moment to attach her helmet to her side, she turned her head to look at the woman.

"The Council was not happy that you took such a risk," The Special Division woman said.

Valessandria merely looked at her.

"Apologies, Lady Knight. I am Samantha, a member of the Special Division." Samantha bowed her head.

"I imagine someone from your position has a certain disdain for how I behave and act out my duties?" Valessandria chuckled at seeing how the woman was behaving compared to before.

"I apologize for the disrespect I have shown to you. Despite my personal feelings on the matter, I still should show deference to someone of your status as part of the Student Council." Samantha took in a deep breath, clearly not happy to say such things.

Raising a hand to Samantha, Valessandria shook her head. "It is understandable that you would feel that way, considering how you are part of the Special Division. Though you may serve the Council, you would be receiving orders primarily from the President. And how I behaved would not be something anyone in the Special Division would enjoy seeing, even if it was another Council member."

Samantha lightly smiled, "Thank you for your understanding, My Lady."

Seeing that Samantha was still interested in receiving an answer to her behavior, "Though I was reckless in how I moved to protect Leaf Village against the Lunar Empire, I had no desire in a direct confrontation."

"Then why?"

"Based on reports I received and the current situation, I knew that the Kingdom would not send aid despite knowing that their own people were in trouble. I could not bear to stand by and not try to do something when they were relatively close to us." Valessandria sighed, feeling like she was back in front of Nathanial and arguing about sending aid to the village. Before Samantha could dispute, she added, "It ended up being a good thing that I did go to Leaf Village."

Raising an eyebrow, Samantha waited.

"Though the actions committed by the Empire are beyond excusable, I was also able to witness things that I still struggle to grasp." She moved a slightly trembling hand to brush back her sweat-soaked hair. Glancing at Samantha, "The only reason I mention this to you is that you are a member of the Special Division, so I know your loyalty to the Academy is without question."

Samantha furrowed her brow.

Images of what she had witnessed beyond the pyramid flashed through her mind, escaping her attempts to keep them locked away deep in her subconscious. "The forces the Empire had sent faced something unspeakable that night. This is on top of an unusual structure that appeared, something that had never existed before." Staring directly into the woman's eyes and keeping her voice low, "I suspect something even more dangerous and sinister than the Empire has appeared, and every power, including us, needs to be cautious about not attracting its attention."

The previous contempt directed to her on Samantha's face dissolved. Samantha looked away from her and stared ahead of them, stunned by the raw emotion displayed but unsure of what to say.

Valessandria knew that it would be difficult for anyone to believe her, considering they hadn't been there to see what she had seen. What made her worry was how that night coincided with her encounter with the young lord. There seemed to be too many things coincidentally aligning together, the Empire's sudden increase in aggression toward all their neighbors, the Overflow approaching them soon, and the arrival of the person she met with that night.

Reaching the gate into Illumin, her eyes looked at the long line of wagons waiting to be inspected before being allowed entry. Compared to usual, there was an entire platoon of guards from the City Wall Company dealing with those entering through the gate. On top of checking each wagon and group entering, a few seemed to keep an eye on the camp outside the wall. Though they were letting the Peacekeeper Company handle security outside the wall, it showed how much they tried to pay attention to matters related to the City's defense.

Instead of going to the back of the line and waiting her turn to enter, she navigated her horse toward the gate. Though Valessandria didn't enjoy how she was able to cut past all the people patiently waiting to enter the City, she did acknowledge that the information she had needed to be delivered to the Council due to its urgent nature.

"My Lady!" One of the City Wall Company guards noticed her and quickly bowed. Rushing to approach her, "My Lady, we are glad you have returned safely."

Smiling and nodding her head, "Thank you. I must head in to see the Student Council." Though she appreciated the warm welcome, she imagined that Samantha would not be happy with her -- delaying her lecture from the Council.

"Of course!' He awkwardly smiled, likely understanding what would happen after the Lady Knight had left the City.

"Before I continue, I would like you to convey my concern about the prospective students and their families. I have seen numerous families without basic necessities." She couldn't help but frown, feeling that such a lack of duty had shamed the City. "I understand that it is not under the purview of the City Wall Company, but I would like you to talk to your commander and have you work with the Peacekeeper Company. Members of the Disciplinary Committee will be sent to ensure that those who come to Illumin are treated respectfully." Seeing the guard beginning to wilt from her lecture, she remembered that the guards were likely trying their best and not doing anything out of malice. Softening her voice, "All of you are part of our great City, and although things have become busier, I believe you will be able to ascend to the occasion."

The guard's eyes were looking down during the lecture, but near the end, he looked up at her and smiled. Saluting, "I apologize for not meeting your expectation. We have failed Illumin and will make the necessary changes to redeem ourselves."

Raising a hand, she couldn't help but feel warmth in her chest, happy that she could lead such people who shared her love for the people. Continuing through the gate, her eyes wandered to look at the grand entrance into the City. Like many other large cities, the security measures were numerous, not just to protect against invading forces but also against the ocean of monsters that appeared during the Overflow. One of the doors was thicker than a person lying on the ground, taking a significant amount of time to close, but once it sealed the gate, not even the strongest of monsters would be able to damage it. There was also a portcullis that could quickly close and provide time for the main barrier to move into place. The gate was like a tunnel into the City. It was massive enough that even fifty horses could line up comfortably inside it.

She looked and saw some wagons off to the side in carved-out wall sections where further investigations could be made. With the thick wall, there was enough space to hold offices inside and even house people who had committed crimes. As she moved away from the beginning of the gate, the light slowly began to dim, and large mana lamps were hung to provide illumination for everyone doing their jobs.

As people went about their duties, they occasionally greeted her before returning to what they were doing, which she enjoyed seeing. Despite her position, she had never been the type to flaunt her political power inside the City. It was why she didn't mind that not everyone ran up to greet her as she made her way through the entrance.

Even with the people camping outside the walls, everyone was busy admitting merchants, residents, and visitors into the City. She watched as members of the City Wall Company ran back and forth with documents or merchants filling out their information about their purpose and how long their visit would be. There were also lines of students returning for their assignments or duties with the Adventurer's Guild. Though other cities were similar in filtering people coming and going, it was nowhere close to the number of safeguards put into place inside Illumin. It was something she was proud of as the Lady Knight, having the knowledge that people inside Illumin would be secure from danger.

Soon, the light began to increase as they reached the other side. Just like when they first entered, another line of people was waiting to leave the City, talking with the City Wall Company guards. She nodded her head to the members of the Company before entering the outer area of Illumin.

Compared to Leaf Village, Illumin was entirely different, just with the number of people and structures housed inside the City. Though the sun provided some light, the outer area was still covered in shadow from the wall and the multiple levels. Using the wall as a support structure, levels were created in order to properly use the limited space inside the City. Looking up at the different levels, she watched as wagons traveled the paths after being lifted up with large elevators to help them reach where they needed to travel.

On the ground street, staring at the numerous levels above her was like being at the bottom of a canyon. She could see the bridges connecting different parts of the levels, allowing people to navigate their way through the maze. Walking along the paths or crossing the bridges, humans, and non-humans of various species went about their day.

Despite the large number of people walking on the main path, they quickly stepped out of her way when they noticed her insignia. Some of the people moving out of her way had smiles, but the number of happy people was balanced with those who looked with distrust. The mana lamps hanging on various poles and walls created shadows on their faces, giving the ones with frowns a more menacing appearance.

Passing by shops, Valessandria noticed students inside them. The ones she saw picking out food gave information about their financial situation. She gripped her fist, angered by the difference in opportunities between those with financial means and those without. It did make her appreciate that the Adventurer's Guild had a branch inside Illumin since it enabled those who didn't have funds to earn a living and help support their educational expenditures.

Moving deeper into the City, the number of levels above them began to decrease. She couldn't help but feel her mood lift, feeling the warmth on her skin. There was also a decrease in mana lamps turned on, with more of the light reaching the ground level. As they made their way closer to the Academy, the surrounding noise decreased and gave a calmer air.

With the number of levels decreasing, she could begin to see the wall of the Academy. They weren't as imposing as the wall around the City, but they still served the purpose of separating the City into an inner and outer area. The closer they approached the walls, she noticed more students hanging out at cafes with their friends or shopping for supplies for their classes.

She couldn't help but think of her circumstances when she arrived at Illumin, hanging out with friends close to the wall, enjoying the sticks of meat the stores sold where they played. There often weren't places for people to sit and relax as they enjoyed their food. However, some business owners had worked together to build counters on which people could place their meals while they stood and ate. But closer to the Academy, a few of the cafes had a sectioned-off area where customers could comfortably sit together as they enjoyed meals that she hadn't been exposed to until much later in her life -- closer to when she became the Lady Knight. A feeling of bitterness bubbled inside her, knowing that the other council members were raised in an environment where they could casually dine and not be concerned about when their next meal would arrive.

The path began to widen as they neared the wall of the Academy, and soon the people walking about were primarily students. Even the shops became ones that catered more to the needs of students and what younger people would enjoy, especially those who had significant financial resources readily at hand to spend on luxury items.

Valessandria scanned the area as they moved onto the road that encircled the Academy, providing a barrier between the outer and inner regions of the City. The road even had lines indicating how merchants were supposed to enter the Academy and provide space for them to be searched. Past the road, there was only the wall. Sighing, she tried to remind herself that the road was merely to make it convenient for traffic to reach the numerous gates and help with the flow of students and guests entering, something the gate into Illumin struggled with due to only having one. While it helped to defend when the Overflow occurred, the single entrance into the City perpetually had a line that sometimes stretched as far as the eye could see.

She chuckled at herself, knowing of a small temporary village of tents created to provide housing to those traveling to the City and unable to enter before the gates closed for the night. It had grown to a significant size with the trade opportunities presented.

But as she looked at the road that surrounded the Academy, all she could see was a border that marked those with means and those without.

Approaching the wall, she checked the line of wagons waiting to enter the Academy to deliver supplies to the various departments through the commercial entrance -- a massive gate to allow multiple wagons to enter at the same time in case something special was being delivered to a professor or teacher. It was also pleasant to see that the merchants waiting to enter the Academy were relaxed and didn't appear impatient for sometimes waiting more than a few hours. But seeing the Disciplinary Committee having several platoons of the General Purpose department going through multiple wagons at a time as they questioned the merchants gave her confidence that the line would proceed at an efficient pace. The Security Division of the Academy Guards had an equal number of platoons doing a quick sweep of wagons. They also had a few members close to the line of students and guests waiting to enter through the smaller gate for only people. The members were easy to spot with their black uniforms and red accents.

A few of the General Purpose Department members turned their heads to check who was approaching the gate from the incorrect angle, not getting in line but riding their horses directly toward the entrance. One of them pointed at two members and conveyed their orders before making their way toward her horse and the Special Division members behind her.

Seeing the Disciplinary Committee members approaching her, several students looked in her direction. Recognizing Valessandria, many of the female students began to cheer and try to catch her attention.

"Lady Knight! We love you!"

Hearing the cheers from the female students, Valessandria couldn't help but feel her cheeks become slightly warm. She raised a hand, acknowledging their loving and kind words. Being a member of the Student Council in charge of discipline, it was difficult to adjust to the positive attention she received from portions of the student population. Even though she wasn't a popular figure for many, there was still a percentage of students that showered her with adoration.

It reminded her of the report she received about how a fan club was dedicated to her, written up by a member of the Intelligence Department. What made the information worse was how William would often tease her about having a fan club. A few of the members of the Auditors Department put it upon themselves to keep track of relevant sales of merchandise related to her, even going so far as separating them between the Inner and Outer regions of the City. Many in the Disciplinary Committee would whisper amongst themselves and giggle, enjoying how their leader was popular. Even though Valessandria knew it was all done in good fun, the knowledge still made her self-conscious of the attention.

"Lady Knight! We are glad that you have returned safely!" A long blonde-haired woman in the white uniform of the General Purpose department of the Disciplinary Committee gave a salute before her eyes flickered to the black uniforms with silver accents of the Special Division of the Academy Guards.

Valessandria smiled approvingly at how her subordinate kept her thoughts to herself, not antagonizing the Special Division. Though she understood that seeing a superior treated like a criminal wasn't palatable, it was understandable after what she had done. They needed to accept punishment when appropriate if they, as the Disciplinary Committee, were going to set the proper example for the students inside the Academy.

"It looks like you are having quite a time." Valessandria casually said to her subordinate.

Nodding, the woman smiled, "Yes. There seem to be new stores that have become popular with some of the students. One of the stores is offering some type of deal for new customers, a free slice of limited-time cake for new customers." She giggled at the end.

"Did you get a chance to have a slice?"

Letting out a sigh, the woman shook her head, "Unfortunately, I have not. I tried to go when I had some time, but they were out for the day by the time I could order. The lines are quite long."

Raising an eyebrow, Valessandria wondered if she should stop by and see if she could get a slice. The only downside was looking inconspicuous so no one would know it was her. Seeing her subordinate's long face, she didn't want to use her power to cut through the line. At the same time, she couldn't help but think it would be a fun day. But her mood took a nose dive, remembering that it was likely that she would be punished and miss the promotional period.

Her subordinate opened her mouth but then decided against it, returning to pay attention in front of her as she walked next to the horse.

With the other members recognizing her, they gave a quick salute as she reached the gate and entered through.

"Thank you for your hard work, Lady Knight." The woman saluted.

"All of you are doing a great job. Continue to protect the Academy." Valessandria waved a hand to all her subordinates as she entered the Academy.

Compared to the Outer region of the City, the Academy was open and had large grassy fields with tiny forests. While the Outer region focused on the efficiency of space, the Academy was designed with a particular aesthetics. Students could be seen enjoying the lovely day, walking on the paths, or enjoying a relaxing picnic. Younger students could be seen playing tag in the forest or on one of the playground sites scattered throughout the Academy.

Entering the Academy felt as though she had stepped outside but without the monsters and threat of the horrifying natural disaster of the hurricane of monsters that would sweep across the lands and devastate communities. In front of them were tall structures that seemed to reach for the sky and elegant buildings where classes would teach thousands of students. The center of the Academy was a tower stretching higher than all the others like a bridge to the gods above them.

Valessandria's eyes stared at the tower that seemed to defy what humans were able to accomplish, a place that controlled all matters related to not just the Academy but also the City. It was also where she and the other members of the Student Council would meet. The place they were approaching and where she would inevitably be lectured about her negligent behavior.

Continuing down one of the main paths that led to the center of the Academy, where all the buildings were located, Valessandria couldn't help but smile at seeing all the students happily enjoying the open fields or studiously pouring over the textbooks. She noticed a few flashes of light from students attempting to improve their connection with the mana in the air.

"Though I enjoy exploring the Outer part of the City, there is always something magical upon entering the Academy. There is nothing more that I treasure than this place."

Turning her head to look back at Samantha, Valessandria couldn't help but crack a smile. Even though Samantha was escorting her to the Student Council, it was true that the Academy felt like a unique and magical place that couldn't be replicated anywhere else on the continent. Though Valessandria knew little of the people that lived beyond the endless land of sand south of the Kingdom and the nations they lived inside, thinking that there was a place better than the Academy was difficult for her to imagine. "It truly is a magical place." She nodded.

"I have so much to owe this place since the Academy accepted my sister and me, even if we came from a fallen House." Samantha stared at the students going about their daily activities, likely with classes over for the day. Her eyes then slowly looked sideways at Valessandria.

Valessandria continued to look at the sights of the Academy, feeling it was a common tale. It wasn't unexpected to discover that Samantha was from the nobility. There weren't many in the Special Division of the Academy Guards not from a prestigious family background. Instead, she would've been surprised if the woman was from a commoner family as she had been.

"Lady Knight!" A student waved her hand. Next to her was a classmate whose face was red -- embarrassed by her friend. However, the classmate shyly glanced in Valessandria's direction.

Valessandria happily waved at the student and the classmate. "The two of you paying attention to your classes?" She shouted to the two students.

"Yes, Lady Knight!" The student who had waved said in a loud voice. In contrast, the classmate's voice was significantly lower, as though not wanting to attract attention.

She tried to hold back a giggle, seeing that the two had notepads that clearly had her face drawn on the back. The sight of the notepads was evidence that the two students were fans of hers. Though she never understood the benefit of purchasing items with her likeness on them, it wasn't likely she would admonish the students. Valessandria may not have enjoyed the distribution of such goods, but deep down, she sensed that many students admired her due to her background and what she was able to accomplish, and the items purchased were used as a way to motivate them. A few nobles may be part of her fan club, but she knew that most members were from a simple background.

As they traveled toward the center of the Academy, she looked at the long buildings with windows scattered densely on the sides, the top levels having balconies with a few students unwinding under the sun. Each row of windows indicating the floor where students would be housed. The student dormitories were clustered together and built to circle the Academy. They weren't as tall as many of the other structures or as elaborately designed. But a benefit was how they were sometimes closer to class buildings or other resources often used by the students.

The rooms weren't special, but for many, they would be better than they had before arriving at the Academy. Brushing back some of her hair as the lazy breeze blew past, she fondly remembered the one she stayed at when first arriving at the school as a child. It was a simple unit she was assigned to, with multiple rooms that allowed two students to stay inside each one. There was even a basic kitchen available for them since they couldn't afford to get school meals. Valessandria couldn't help but smile, reminiscing how she'd stay up late giggling with her roommates in the small common area where they also ate their modest meals.

Students emerged from the dorms, many appearing as though they had just awoken. Of course, as students left to head to class, some returned to the dorm to get ready to sleep. The bags under some of the students' eyes hinted at how much time they had dedicated to their classes and other activities.

Along the road were small temporary shops that sold snacks and other food items. A student could be seen behind the counter, taking orders from the line of students, many of who didn't have time to head into the Outer area of the City to pick up food for the morning before or after class. The shops that were dispersed near the basic dormitory area were helpful since they allowed people to avoid taking time out of their busy schedule to shop at the stores in the Outer area of the City.

A few of the students looked to see who was making their way through the dormitory area of the Academy before their eyes widened upon seeing that it was Valessandria and the Special Division of the Academy Guards.

"Good morning, My Lady," Several students greeted her.

Nodding, she greeted them back, waving at a few while passing them by. Compared to the Outer area, where people needed to move out of the way due to how busy the City was in the morning, the roads were relatively empty, with the students mainly using the sidewalks. The few students walking on the side of the road would occasionally look behind them, making sure that no wagons or horses were traveling toward the central area of the Academy.

"I imagine all of you are pretty busy juggling your duties as Academic Guards and being a student?" Seeing all the students, she couldn't help but feel social.

Sighing, Samantha nodded, "I am fortunate to not have too many classes that I have signed up for, but after my shift is over for the day, I will need to head to the library and read up on the chapters." Her shoulder slumped, not enjoying the idea of having more work to do after work was finished.

Valessandria's eyes casually looked at the large building with different sections between the dormitories. The size was nearly double the size of the neighboring structures, with dozens of large windows to let in natural light. A flow of students entered, walking up the steps and entering to reach their class. There were a few that frantically ran towards the building, gently pushing aside other students in their haste. She chuckled as she shook her head, thinking that the student would not have a fun time being late.

As they traveled deeper into the Academy, the buildings became larger and more scattered -- further away from the dormitories. A few buildings were significantly larger than the dormitories and could be seen upon entering the Academy. Some didn't have as many windows but still maintained the natural feel with their smooth and curved exterior. She could imagine the activities taking place inside them, some training areas for students to practice entering into areas where monsters would congregate. These were also helpful for student clubs that needed the space to develop their skills in a safe environment -- one of the many areas available for them.

One of the major libraries in the Academy was in the shape of a massive dome. Inside the library would be a sea of bookshelves -- feeling like a cave with how little light entered into the deeper areas. The Academy had designed the structure to help preserve books due to how light could negatively impact and damage them. Mana lamps would help provide light for students delving deep into the caverns of knowledge. As a member of the Student Council, she was aware of the underground tunnels filled to the brim with books, scrolls, and artwork to be protected from not just monsters but factions that would desire them destroyed.

For most of the younger students, the main libraries weren't used -- instead, the smaller locations were preferable. She didn't envy the staff responsible for maintaining the facilities and organizing everything. At the same time, the Academy's vast library was what allowed them to continue to push the boundaries of knowledge.

Valessandria watched as students made their way into the buildings on their way to their daily activities, wondering what the world looked like for them. She hoped that they remained ignorant of the horrors of the world while also worrying that they were ill-prepared to handle what could be waiting for them.

Reaching the center, her eyes couldn't help but look at the imposing tower which dominated her field of view. The base was broad, close to a mile in diameter. With white walls that were smooth and curved, they caught the light to the point where the tower seemed to glow. Surrounding the base was arched entryways with students coming in and out, going about their day.

"It truly is something I can not imagine to be made by man," She smiled and gazed at the structure that filled her with wonder.

Approaching one of the entryways, she noticed several students in black and white uniforms approach them, indicating their position with the Administration Division of the Academy Guards. Seeing how young they were, it was clear that they were lower-level guards of the division tasked with guiding students.

"My Lady," One of the guards, a boy with short black hair, bowed to her.

Valessandria casually dismounted her horse. Giving the animal an affectionate pat on its neck, she directed her attention at the young guard, "Please hand over my horse to the Disciplinary Committee's area. Let them know to give her some snacks to reward her hard work, getting to Leaf Village and back to Illumin. She will also need to be brushed down and examined for the usual after such a hard run."

"As you wish, your commands will be fulfilled," The boy indicated for one of the other guards to take the horse.

A young girl with braided brunette hair respectfully approached the horse. She accepted the reins from Valessandria before guiding it away toward one of the entrances to the underground stables beneath the tower.

Samantha and the other Special Division members dismounted and handed them to the other Administration Division guards. The horses would be taken to the stables controlled by the Academy Guards.

A few students casually glanced in their direction, curious about what was happening since people with horses would head to a different area to access the tower. Mainly, students would walk to where they needed to go, not including the large carriages that transported students along set routes to different parts of the Academy.

Going inside the tower, Valessandria enjoyed the open area with how high the ceiling was. It felt open and free. What helped was how there were windows on the ceiling, allowing sunlight to enter and light up the interior. Hanging from the top were large crystal balls with several mana lamps inside for when the sun set for the night.

Just like any other time, the interior was filled with students. With how the tower's ground floor was designed, there were plenty of areas for students to relax and hang out with their classmates. Couches and comfortable chairs were organized close to one another.

Plants were scattered throughout the area, even groups of trees that created tiny forests. The forested area created a nice contrast to the seats, desks, and other constructed items used throughout by students and staff. Considering how being outside instead of stuck inside, the greenery relieved mental stress that could be built up as students studied for classes or turned in items for their various courses.

In the nearby forest, elves were resting against the trunks as they socialized with one another. There were also beast people that also tended to enjoy nature, similar to the elves. A few students were taking a short nap in the branches after a hard day of work.

Navigating through the students, Valessandria checked whether any obvious issues could be seen. It was a habit that she developed with her position, needing to check if anything nefarious or detrimental to the Academy was occurring. Typical of a school, there were a few students that were arguing about some matter, but it was only a short time until Disciplinary Committee members approached them to see if there were any issues. She nodded in approval, glad to see the peace maintained inside the tower.

"Busy as usual."

Valessandria looked to Samantha, who was looking at the line of students waiting to talk to someone at the Administration Division. Ahead of the line was a row of stations where members of the Administration Division were assisting students.

Some of the students were next to carts with monsters lying on top, having been hunted by the group. The creature would be presented to the Administrative Division to show that the assignment had been completed, so the students would get credit. It would then be taken away by members of the Logistic arm of the Support Division to be dismantled and turned into resources for the various departments in the Academy.

"That is one of the nice things I like about Illumin, how it never gets quiet. People are constantly doing something, whether related to their studies or connected to the Adventurer's Guild." Valessandria grinned.

Due to the sheer size of the tower, it took some time until they reached the stairs, which would lead to the next level. But despite the distance, she didn't mind since being back in Illumin was something she enjoyed -- the reason why she never left despite the offers.

Matching the architecture of the tower, the stairs were like ivy, growing along the side of the central area where students not part of an organization were not allowed access. Compared to the buildings outside for classes, training for different departments, or libraries, many organizations that helped keep running Illumin were located inside the tower. This meant that the central area was restricted to only those who had permission.

Reaching the wide stairs carved into the wall that separated the public and private areas, students made their way to the upper levels. With how the stairs curved along the walls, the journey was a significant effort but enjoyed by most since it allowed them to see the sight of the ground floor.

Students walking down the stairs bowed their heads to Valessandria as she made her way toward the second floor. Smiling at the students and curious about what the students that passed her by would be doing for the day, she also appreciated the time walking up the stairs as a form of meditation. Being back inside the Academy couldn't help but make her feel joy, her steps feeling lighter than when she journeyed outside the city.

Time quietly flowed by as she took each step closer to the first floor's ceiling.

Like how the first floor had been noisy with all the students turning in their assignments or hanging out with one another, voices soon cascaded down the stairs. Valessandria stepped onto the second floor and took a moment to look around. Her eyes widened slightly, seeing the number of students waiting in lines; some hanging out with their classmates and talking about the day.

"I see some of the upperclassmen preparing for their combat exams," Samantha said.

Looking at some of the students and noticing their grades, Valessandria nodded, realizing it was about that time in the year for students to reserve some of the practice rooms inside the tower. "I do not expect you will have difficulty gaining access to a training room?" She smiled at Samantha.

Samantha shrugged and raised both hands, "I am fortunate to be connected with the Academy Guards, so I will be able to use the official training rooms. I suspect it is the same with the Disciplinary Committee? Even the opportunity to train with the older students?" Her eyes looked curiously at Valessandria as though unsure whether the Lady Knight would answer.

Seeing Samantha's attempt to gain information in such a juvenile manner was amusing; it reminded her of her younger days when she had to gather information for her missions. Valessandria nodded, "That is correct. Just like with the Academy Guards, we try to reward our members with small perks to help them with their school work. With how much our members spend time keeping the city safe, I think it is reasonable to support them in their journey to becoming better students."

Though each organization inside Illumin kept some things secret from the others, especially the Disciplinary Committee, she didn't think there was any reason to keep something as minor as student training a secret since everyone else was doing something similar. There may be elements that are unique to each organization. However, the training was relatively identical for those who still needed to pass their general studies and enter their specialization years.

Valessandria couldn't help but feel inspired, seeing the students waiting in line to reserve one of the training rooms and check out rental weapons. Watching everyone working hard to improve themselves made her optimistic about the future, whether it was related to the Overflow or some other event that dared to threaten the peace around Illumin and inside the Kingdom. She was also reassured that the Academy was moving in the right direction with its curriculum to provide enough training in simulated combats and applied theory. Even if there were issues inside Illumin, there was a sense that things would work out in the end with the growth of the next generation. It made her wonder if she was in the presence of the next Student Council members after the current members stepped down due to age.

Compared to the first floor, the second was not nearly as open. Most of the space was used for the training rooms. The area around the stairs to the first floor was the only part where students could chat with one another while they waited for their rooms to become available.

Not wanting to take up any more time, she made her way toward the elevator next to the stairs. Though it was nice to take a moment to observe how the older students were performing in their classes, there was no need to keep the President waiting. He was already in a poor mood, and she didn't see a reason to make things worse.

"I assume you will be taking the elevator?" Samantha smiled.

Valessandria raised a hand to her mouth as she chuckled. "If we were to take the stairs, I suspect the Council would be waiting for several days. Though, if you are interested in training with me, I invite you to join me sometime."

Samantha smirked.

Though the stairs reached all the way to the top, the number of steps involved was measured in the thousands. But this was why some students enjoyed taking the stairs as a form of intense training to increase their stamina. The journey up the stairs would take a day or two, depending on the individual's stamina, so students would often bring along supplies. Knowing the stairs were often used for training, the Council had set up numerous stations where people could rest. There were even tiny inns where people could rest before continuing their journey.

She thought back to the times she challenged the Tower, climbing up the stairs while carrying full gear on her, sweating and breathing deeply -- stubborn to reach as high as possible. If she wasn't so busy, trying to see if she could walk to the top as quickly as possible while wearing all her gear was an interesting thought and something she would be okay with attempting. Even if she didn't consider herself an old woman, her body was definitely not like it was back when she was younger.

Making their way on the perimeter of the open area, they made their way toward the elevator.

In front of them were several lines of students waiting for one of the many elevators to open. Even with how many there were, due to the height of the Tower, it would still take time for people to enter one of them. She was glad that they would be able to take one of the elevators reserved for employees of the Academy -- specifically the one for Council members.

Reaching the elevators, she couldn't help but look in the direction of the stairs. Compared to the first floor, these were isolated, so the only thing seen was the white steps that seemed to endlessly spiral toward the heavens. Being unable to see the outside made walking up the stair a test of mental stamina.

"The perk of being able to use the reserved elevators is one of the reasons why I enjoy working as an Academy Guard."

Valessandria grinned at the young guard, nodding her head slightly. Though it wasn't good to flaunt or brag about having special access, it was something that they tried to casually mention as a way to attract more students to sign up to join one of the many organizations in the Academy. Since all the organizations are made up of students, it was necessary to offer incentives since students would already be busy with their classes.

Samantha turned to the other Academy Guards, "I will escort the Lady Knight. Head back to the main office for your next assignment."

Saluting to Samantha, her comrades made their way to one of the other reserved elevators that would lead to the floors that the Academy Guards used for administrative work.

Having already pressed the button to summon an elevator, Valessandria raised an eyebrow, "You are still planning on escorting me?"

"I understand that it may appear as though I am disrespecting your authority, but I still have my order that I need to fulfill. Once the elevator reaches the top, I will make my way to the office and move on to my other duties. I hope you can understand." Samantha slightly bowed her head.

Valessandria stared at the young woman before taking a breath, wanting to roll her eyes. Since she was a Council member, it was still within her authority to order Samantha to not continue escorting her. The problem was that it didn't sit well with her to do such actions considering the girl was only doing her job. It was annoying, but she dismissed it as punishment for ignoring the President's wishes. If it were any other time, there was no chance she would put up with such insolence. Even if she didn't enjoy throwing her weight around, it was also essential to make sure that others didn't view the Disciplinary Committee as a weak and toothless group with no authority; as the leader of her organization, it was up to her to show others that she and her people weren't easy to push around.

There was a ring that indicated that their elevator had reached them.

As the door opened, the two entered the small room.

Valessandria made her way to the controls and pressed the button for the highest level. There was a slight tingle on her finger as something scanned to confirm her identity before the button lit up. The elevator then began to move upwards with a slight tremble.

Leaning against the wall, she rested her head on it. She closed her eyes, enjoying the silence, which would last for a little bit with how tall the structure was. Aside from Samantha being inside the elevator with her, Valessandria appreciated the moment of rest that she got; the young woman even seemed to give her some space. She hadn't gotten any sleep, and her body was complaining. Relaxing, her mind slowly drifted off. But as soon as her eyelids closed, the images of what she had seen beyond the pyramid returned.

---

"Lady..."

"Lady Knight..."

Valessandria jerked and bolted awake, slightly raising her arms, her eyes wide in alarm as her heart pounded in her chest, racing as fast as her horse did that night towards Leaf Village. Her eyes quickly tried to grasp what had happened, her conditioning switching on, searching for any threat, but soon landed on Samantha's face in front of her. Slowly the haze of sleep lifted from her mind as she recognized where she was. As she relaxed, a warmth was felt on her face.

"Are you alright, Lady Knight?" Samantha raised an eyebrow in concern.

Valessandria nodded her head. Wanting to hide her face, she fought the urge and took a deep breath, slowly letting it out past her lips. She laughed lightly, knowing how she must have appeared, "Sorry. I did not get any rest and must have dozed."

There was a chime of the elevator before the doors opened.

Turning to look outside, she could see the glossy marble floor, walls, and numerous potted plants. The deep black columns were also a remarkable contrast to the white marble, presenting a mysterious tone for guests of the Student Council. There was also the lack of voices in such a large open area with ceilings taller than any other floors besides the main floor. Shifting her attention back to Samantha, Valessandria said, "I guess we reached the floor where I need to step off. I hope we encounter each other in a better light when you are not escorting me to be disciplined." She attempted to make her words lighthearted as she gave a brief wave and entered the floor of the Student Council.

"May your day be better," Samantha bowed as the doors gradually closed.

Running a hand through her blonde hair, trying to relieve some of the embarrassment she felt, Valessandria grabbed a moment to collect her thoughts. The last thing she wanted was to show up in front of Nathanial with her face red as a tomato. Though it was understandable that she was exhausted from her excursion, it wasn't acceptable for her to be so defenseless in front of others. The last thing she needed was for William to hear about what happened. He would tease her, but she knew he would be troubled and even more of a mother hen.

Smirking, sometimes she didn't know who was in charge of the Disciplinary Committee.

Frowning, what she didn't enjoy was how there was a slight echo in the deep shadows of her mind, still rebounding from what she dreamt about. It felt like a wound still trying to mend, tender to the touch.

Feeling better, she determined it was time to get what would happen over with. Prolonging the inevitable would do no one any good, likely only worsening her situation. She took a breath before eyeing the wooden desk with a marble counter. Behind it were several stunning women quietly performing their duties, such as organizing the President's calendar and tasks that needed to be handled throughout the day. She walked up towards the desk and tried not to look too directly at them. She knew that the women were aware of her presence, another of their duties being a type of bodyguard for the President. While they may make any man pause, mesmerized by their celestial appearance, she wasn't foolish enough to look down at them. Their physical beauty may give the impression of being only valid as decoration. Still, even she would have difficulty fighting off the women if they were to act in a coordinated fashion against her.

"The Council is waiting for you."

Valessandria raised an eyebrow considering the voice came from one of the women who didn't even bother looking up to greet her. She felt a slight twitch on her face. It was as if their duties were more important than interacting with the head of the Disciplinary Committee and a current Council member. Even with her authority, the reception helped put her current tenuous position into perspective. Seeing the main hallway past the desk, she made her way toward the chamber where the Council would be waiting for her. There was no reason to make a commotion with guards just doing their duty.

The hallway leading to the chamber of the Council was long with tall black archways. Though no windows allowed natural light to filter into the area, there wasn't a sense of being cramped. She imagined that even beast people wouldn't struggle with their often larger frames.

Her eyes slowly scanned the floor, walls, and ceiling. "It does create a sense that one is entering into the space of power," Valessandria chuckled, thinking of how often she had to walk through the hallway ready to be chastised for her behaviors of disciplining the students connected to powerful noble families. It was an experience different from when she walked with her fellow council members to a meeting to decide on new policies or change the curriculum for the coming year.

Her footsteps echoed on the marble floors as she stepped fearlessly forward. Even if she knew that her actions were bordering on abusing her authority, if she were given the same opportunity, there wasn't a shred of doubt that she would not regret charging out to aid people in danger again. She was comforted by the knowledge that the people under her would reach the same decision. It was one reason why she felt safe approaching the Council. She did nothing she should be ashamed of, allowing her to face what was ahead.

As she approached the doors to the chamber, a loud creaking noise rumbled as though the air was shuddering around her -- a reminder to anyone that entered that the Council had sole power inside Illumin.

Near the back of the large and open area chamber was a crescent table with each member of the Council already seated, save one. Numerous colored flags draped from the ceiling to the ground representing each organization that made up the Council. Each member sat in front of their respective flag. One lone chair was near the end of the table to her right. Behind the chair was her flag, a white background with her organization's coat of arms -- a gavel and sword crossed behind the head of a noble wolf howling towards the heavens. The white symbolized her role to be pure and without bias, not tied to any other organization at the Academy -- separated even from the Student Council.

Nathanial sat in the middle of the table in front of his black flag that had a large red sun with a longsword in front. It helped to make clear what the position of the President represented, the sole power of the Academy with the ability to enforce their word. The imagery fit with what was about to happen to her, being in front of the President under the heat of the sun. If it was anyone else outside of the Council, they would pause for a moment before they spoke. This was especially true with Nathanial, who preferred people show deference to him and his words. His eyes penetrated into anyone he cast his attention on.

Valessandria casually glanced at members of the Special Division of the Academy Guards lined up on either side of the black carpet leading to the Council's table. The Academy Guards provided security and ensured the safety of each member of the Council. They were lightly armored, holding a spear and sword at their waists. The way they dressed demonstrated the authority of the Council and prevented any guests from acting up and showing proper decorum inside the chamber. Seeing them wasn't new for her and often appreciated since it helped provide some leverage whenever anyone had an audience with them. Still, at that moment, she couldn't help but feel their sharp eyes directed at her.

She confidently walked down the carpeted black path without allowing anyone to intimidate her.

Instead of making her way toward her seat, she continued until reaching the end of the carpet. Stopping, she stood silently and looked directly at Nathanial, trying not to appear too defiant but also letting him know she wouldn't be pushed around.

In front of her, Nathanial rested his chin on his thumbs, and his fingers intertwined. His expression was flat as though trying to understand what had gone through her mind to defy his ruling. The other members of the Council remained silent -- waiting for him to speak. There was an oppressive atmosphere as the silence continued, the only sounds made by Valessandria approaching them upon entering the chamber.

"Do you understand why you have been summoned to stand before the Student Council?" Nathanial finally broke the silence with his low voice, similar to a parent tired of lecturing a child who wouldn't listen to the household rules. His eyes narrowed.

Not wanting to deny anything, she said, "Yes. Despite your words to not get involved with what was happening to Leaf Village by the invasion of the Empire, I decided to take members of my organization to support them."

A few members gasped, shocked by how she answered. There were whispers and a few glares thrown her way, annoyed by her behavior and disregard for the sanctity of the Council. They especially didn't care for how she stood straight without any appearance of regret for her actions.

Behind her was a creaking of metal as members of the Special Division moved slightly in astonishment. Their discipline and devotion to their position prevented them from making any sound.

"I would like a justification for your actions. As we had previously discussed, there was nothing that could have been done. Though we may have been able to protect them against the Empire if we had sent a significant amount of our military forces, it would have left us vulnerable to other threats. On top of that, it would ultimately accomplish nothing since the Empire would just send more troops. Not only did your presence likely antagonize the Empire, but it accomplished nothing in the end." Nathanial's voice remained calm, despite the heat slowly beginning to build.

"Are you saying there was nothing wrong with staying off to the side when even the Kingdom has continually kept their armies within the central area and abandoned the out regions?" Valessandria narrowed her eyes, already knowing the answer from the last time they had debated about sending aid to Leaf Village.

"How else do you expect us to stay neutral?" His voice slowly rose, "Your actions jeopardized this Academies policy of neutrality that we have maintained for decades! DECADES! Woman, do you not understand what you have done?!" Nathanial slammed an open palm on the table, the sound cracking through the air. The heat from the words was like the coat of arms behind him and his tongue as sharp as a sword.

A few members flinched from the noise, but their focus stayed on Valessandria.

Valessandria could empathize with Nathanial. Though he sometimes seemed to care more about the nobility inside the city and often dismissed the plight of the common students, she knew that deep down, he truly cared for the welfare of Illumin. Just as much as he was angered by her actions, he feared the future and the consequences that could fall onto all of them. At the same time, she knew that what she did was the best for all of them. The Empire needed to know that people were willing to stand up against them. Understanding that what she did was ultimately the correct answer allowed her to stand tall and firm against the onslaught of anger directed her way.

"Though I may disagree, I will still abide by the wishes of my fellow Council members and accept any punishment. I only ask for all of you to understand my actions and why I deemed them necessary." She lowered her head as she waited for Nathanial's answer.

Hearing her answer, there was silence as though none of them knew what to say by such a statement. A few couldn't believe how audacious she behaved for someone summoned to receive punishment.

A light cough was heard, making Valessandria raise her head. She turned her head to the right and saw Alice holding a hand in front of her mouth.

Nathanial raised an eyebrow and asked Alice, "Does the Treasurer have anything to add before I make my decision?" His lips were white, pressed tightly together.

Alice looked at Valessandria before her eyes shifted to Nathanial. She smiled coyly before saying, "I want to first say that I officially disagree with the actions of the Lady Knight and feel that they have put our city in a potentially precarious situation..." Seeing Nathanial clenching his jaws, "There may be something that the council should hear before reaching a decision."

Some members leaned closer to others as they whispered, likely trying to figure out what kind of game Alice was playing.

As if enjoying the suspense in the room and having everyone's attention, Alice lazily continued, "Before the respected Lady Knight arrived, I had received information that she carried back a large sum of money in the form of platinum bars."

Nathanial's eyes widened slightly, glancing at Valessandria before shifting back to Alice. Tilting his head slightly to his right, he sneered, "Are you saying that a few bars of platinum are enough to dismiss what the Lady Knight has potentially done? Are the lives of our students so cheap?"

"President, when did I say it was a single bar?" Alice smiled as she leaned back in her seat, a cat playing with her food. "We still need to measure how many ounces are inside the chest containing the bar, but at a quick glance, I was told that the chest holds an amount greater than half a million IAC coins."

One of the members began coughing, struggling to recover after hearing the staggering number.

Nathanial whipped his head towards Valessandria, "Valessandria. Explain." His voice cracked near the end.

Valessandria nodded, "I was surprised by the amount as well, but what Alice says is true. I should start from the beginning. By the time we had reached Leaf Village, the Empire forces had already been defeated." She frowned as the words left her mouth. "I soon met with a young noble who informed me of his desire to attend our academy." Taking a breath in an attempt to center herself, still finding what happened to be a blur in her mind, she continued, "After I told him the cost of attending the Academy and hearing his wish to be accompanied by his servants, the young lord presented to me an amount that would even make the Lunar Empire's Emperor pause."

Nathanial was silent, furrowing his brow. His eyes looked at Alice and then back to Valessandria. He was clearly struggling to believe her words, but Alice's support made it difficult to doubt the story.

"With that said, I suggest that we provide this young lord with the best that we have to offer," Alice looked at Nathanial, finding the situation both intoxicating and amusing. "Considering the sum and the number of servants this lord is planning on bringing, we will need to select one of the mansions close to the Tower. He could become a great asset to Illumin... and this Council."

Seeing how Alice reacted to the news of the amount Yi had paid for his tuition, Valessandria had no doubt that Alice was already thinking about how to get closer to the mysterious young noble. She wouldn't be surprised if Alice began openly salivating like a pack of wild dogs discovering a heap of roasted meat prepared in the middle of the forest. It may give her a moment of pause, not expecting such good fortune in front of her, but her instincts would override any caution.

Nathanial coughed, attempting to clear his throat, spreading his hands, "Lady Knight, while I am still angered by your actions and still believe that they merit some kind of punishment," He coughed again, "I have also decided to put into consideration your contributions to this Academy." Though the ends were crooked, he attempted to smile as if it was his first time. Turning to look to the other members on either side of him, "I believe that we are all in agreement that we, the Council, be merciful towards our fellow member. All of us can agree that the Lady Knight is an honorable woman with our best interests at heart." He placed a hand on his chest, "I would be pained to condemn someone I have so much respect for. Does anyone disagree with my decision?"

There was silence in the room aside from an occasional uncomfortable cough.

Slapping the table, Nathanial smiled broadly as he successfully shifted gears to the reality in front of him, "With that finished, I would like the Lady Knight to take her seat. We will now move to what is next on our agenda."

Alice began clapping, followed by the rest of the Council.

Valessandria smiled lightly, glancing at Alice, knowing the woman had saved her. "That woman is good at the game. I guess I should not be surprised by a noble like her." She thought to herself.

Making her way toward her seat at the end of the table, Valessandria couldn't help but sigh. With the help of Alice bringing up the platinum bars and the amount she delivered from Leaf Village, she was able to evade any significant punishment. However, she may end up with more paperwork from the Council to remind her that even if they are pleased with the money, it doesn't mean they forgot the disrespect she showed them.

Reaching her chair, she nodded at Olivia, who oversaw the support of Illumin, such as dealing with logistics, janitorial, medical services, and other functions less respected by many of the other members.

Olivia shyly nodded a greeting to Valessandria.