《Conquering The Game&#x27;s World》


 Chapter 1: Blood In The Slums.

    <h4>Chapter 1: Blood In The Slums.</h4>

    In the slums of the city of Lurandal. In the shadows of the night, under the silvery moonlight of the bright full moon, and the crimson light of Velmaur, the neighboring. It was as if the slums were shrouded in the eerie, bloody darkness of the ominous night.

    *Bang* *Bang*

    Sounds of multiple gunshots were heard across the back alley. The residents of the slum closed themselves in their houses or hid far away from the source of themotion. The residents were too afraid toe out to check the situation.

    A young, dark-haired boy was running across the street with an anxious expression on his blood-covered face. The blood continued dripping down from the wound on his forehead and exhaustion started taking over his body.

    From time to time, he nced back to see if he managed to escape the trail. He was sprinting to stay alive. He doesn''t know if he managed to escape, but he knows if he stops here, he will die.

    The fear of death was the only driving force that helped him live in his current predicament. While taking deep breaths, he took another turn. But in front of him stood a person covered in ck clothes from head to toe, with only a ck dragon tattoo on his bare neck. He gritted his teeth in frustration and desperation and started running in the opposite direction.

    His grip tightened on the pistol he was holding. He immediately fired at the ck-clothed figure behind him without looking back. One would believe it''s ast-ditch struggle for him to survive. Those aimless bullets can only be dependent on luck to hit their mark.

    But, miraculously, from the trajectory of those bullets, no one can believe those shots were aimless. The precision of all those shots was like that of an expert. All the bullets were shot at the vital points of the enemy. This level of handling and control of guns can only be described as godly.

    But regardless of how precise those shots were. That boy didn''t dare to stop. He continued running as if knowing it was all meaningless.

    And that is what happened. The ck-clothed figure calmly took out a knife and

    *Pang*

    *Pang*

    *Pang*

    *Pang*

    Sounds of metal hitting metal were heard, and all the bullets were deflected by that curved knife he held. None of those bullets even managed to scratch him.

    "Haa... Damn it... Haa."

    The boy cursed under his breath. He knew it would end up like that. But he has to buy some time for his escape. He can''t find any other solution to his situation. He tried essing a bracelet-like thing on his hand. But it was broken. Because his mana bracelet was broken, he couldn''t contact anyone. Only the storage function was working somewhat. But too bad he only had some magazines for his pistol and other things were not useful in his current situation. After all, he wasn''t an awakened so he couldn''t use any artifacts.

    The ck-clothed figure chased him like a predator chasing its prey. Soon he increased his speed as if the game of run and chase was about to end.

    The dark-haired boy continued firing bullets. Even if they were precise, what does it matter? All of them were blocked with a single knife.

    "Haah... Haah."

    While reloading those bullets, he didn''t dare stop. Letting out hoarse grunting sounds each time he breathed. The muddy water on the road sshed everywhere as he continued running. His body was long past the exhaustion point. But what does it matter? His life depended on it.

    ''Will I die today?''

    ''If only I had mana.'' He has yet to go through his awakening, so he hadn''t formed a mana core yet. Hence, neither could he ess mana nor his element.

    Many thoughts resurfaced in his mind. But soon everything stopped as he felt a bone-breaking pain in the back of his head. Didn''t know when the ck-clothed figure already approached him and, with a violent punch on his back, sent his tattered body flying dozens of meters.

    "Paah."

    Blood sttered out of his mouth and from the various wounds on his body. His blood-dripping eyelids turned to his right leg, which was now pointing in the wrong direction.

    The boy didn''t know how many bones he got broken after thatst attack. But the pain all over his body, especially on the back of his head, made his senses numb.

    ''Even my brain can''t handle so much pain.''

    ''But why am I in this situation? What did I do wrong? I don''t even know why does someone wants to kill me.''

    Even in his near-death state, the boy wanted answers.

    ''Is it one of my parents'' enemies?''

    *Tap*

    *Tap*

    *Tap*

    With the sounds of closing footsteps, the boy barely managed to turn his eyes in the direction from where the sound wasing.

    There he saw his killer, his unknown nemesis,ing in his direction patiently, without any rush. Like he was waiting to give him a slow, painful death. As if he didn''t want it to end so soon.

    A desperate smile formed across the blood-dripping mouth of the boy.

    "... W... Why?"

    He barely managed to utter a word. His voice was almost inaudible, with barely any strength behind it. But the Assassin heard it clearly.

    "You want to know why you are going to die, right?" The Assassin asked, as if amused by the situation.

    The boy could imagine the mocking expression on his face even with his face covered. ''He is enjoying it.''

    "It seems you don''t even have the strength to answer me." The Assassin shook his head in pity.

    "Welp doesn''t matter. You are going to die, anyway. As for why you are dying, it''s because someone powerful wants to kill you."

    ''Someone powerful? Who?'' the boy thought. Even on the brink of death, he was puzzled. He knew with his current self it was impossible to escape. As for waiting for help, it was even more ridiculous. Because no one knew where he was.

    He didn''t tell anyone that he came to the city of Lurandal to take things off his mind because of certain matters at home. But who would expect to be targeted by an Assassin? He regrets his decision now.

 Chapter 2: The Last Stand

    <h4>Chapter 2: The Last Stand</h4>

    "I don''t sell out my clients." The Assassin said while shaking his head. Then he gazed at the dying boy, whose entire body was covered in blood. To his surprise, even with his broken limbs and tattered body, he tightly clung onto his pistol as if ready to kill him as soon as he let his guard down.

    To be honest, the Assassin was a little impressed by the boy. But he was the unfortunate one who became ''that'' person''s target. So he had to die.

    "It''s just business, boy. At least we had a good time before you died." The Assassin said.

    Just as he wanted to finish this now, he was surprised to see the gray, blood-dripping eyes of the boy facing him with killing intent.

    The Assassin got goosebumps on his body. ''What a fierce boy.''

    "Okay, boy, our game ends here." The Assassin said as he plunged his knife into the boy''s heart while muttering. "For giving me a good time before dying. And your tenacious will, which I came to respect now. I''ll let you die with aplete body."

    On hisst breath, the boy used all his strength to lift his still-intact hand-

    ''Is he still trying to struggle?'' Assassin thought.

    -and showed a middle finger.

    The next moment, the light in his gray eyes faded, and the boy died.

    "Ha, Hahaha." The assassinughed hysterically.

    "You boy. Interesting, even until the very end."

    "Hahaha."

    He found today''s mission very fun.

    ***

    "Now let''s clean up your body." The Assassin muttered while taking out a vial from his pocket. If someone pours the liquid inside the vial on a dead body. The body will melt until there''s nothing left, not even bones or ashes. It''s a good way to clear the evidence.

    "The hell!!" The Assassin cursed as he found the vial was broken.

    "D*mn boy, even after your death, you are giving me trouble." He understood one of the bullets must have hit it.

    "Sigh, we can only use the old way now." Muttering at that, the Assassin carried his dead body and threw it inside the river, connecting the outer area of the slums.

    "That does it. Be a good fish food, boy." Patting both his hands while watching the drowning body, the Assassin took out a device from his pocket and clicked on the mission''s column. "Mission 226pleted - Target ''Luis Suarez'' eliminated."

    "Boss will reward me handsomely." The Assassin uttered while thinking about the background of the target he killed. He made his escape while erasing his trails. "It would bring a lot of changes in this country once his death is announced. Not like it''s my problem."

    ***

    Deep inside the river.

    The blood from Luis'' body started affecting the surrounding water, even attracting the carnivorous creatures inside the river.

    When those creatures were ready to shred his body to pieces and have their banquet tonight. Something incredulous happened. The dead body of Luis Suarez opened his eyes with a golden glint in them. His finger twitched and his body started emitting sparks. Until the power increased so much that it electrocuted those creatures alive.

    In the next moment, the space around Luis'' body twisted, and the body vanished from the river as if it had never existed.

    The only proof of its existence would have been the roasted creatures in the river and the human blood in that particr odd area.

    ***

    *Aaahhh*

    With a sharp, painful cry, Luis woke up sensing severe pain from the broken parts all over his body.

    *Aaah*

    *ARGH*

    He tried gritting his teeth to endure the pain. But it was too much for him to bear. Tears starteding out of his eyes. He bit his lips to stop himself from crying in pain, but failed miserably.

    ''Why? Why am I suffering from so much pain? What happened to me? How did I end up this way?''

    He thought, while suppressing his painful cries. He felt a deep pain in his chest. His eyes widened as he saw a deep stab wound on his chest.

    ''What? Was I killed?'' His confusion grew and so did his pain.

    He saw his leg twisted in the wrong direction. His tears can''t stop falling down his eyes.

    ''Who did this to me?''

    ''I can''t bear so much pain.''

    ''Someone stop this. Please...''

    Those were his desperate screams inside his mind. The pain in his lungs didn''t let him speak.

    At this moment, as if subconsciously, he felt something changing inside his body and sparks came out all over his body. Those sparks grew stronger and stronger. After some time, his entire body was covered in yellow lightning.

    To his horror and relief, the pain dimmed and the wounds in his body started healing by themselves. The deep stab wound on his chest was slowly healing as the lightning-sparked on it intensely. The twisted leg was slowly turning in the right direction.

    ''What is this? Some superpower? Magic?'' He was confused. He didn''t know what was happening with his body.

    At this moment, he caught sight of something that made him forget all his pain and the miracle that he was witnessing. He saw a mirror on his side, but the reflection on it was an unfamiliar person. Just like him, the boy in the reflection of the mirror was also floating in the air covered in yellow lightning, but the body of that person was someone he didn''t know.

    ''Who is he?''

    ''Why am I in someone else''s body?''

    ''Is this a dream? If it is, it''s very painful.''

    At that moment, a sharp pain assaulted him from the back of his head. He felt as if thousands of needles piercing his brain continuously.

    *ARGH*

    He screamed and went unconscious. That was his limit. He couldn''t handle any more of this pain.

    But his body continued floating in the air as the lighting kept sparkling around his body. Slowly healing itself.

    At this moment, all the memories left in the body of Luis slowly started merging with the intruder''s soul. The memories were being yed in front of him, a memory of the whole 16 years of the life of ''Luis Suarez'', who had an untimely death at the hands of an Assassin.

    As such, two days went by as the unconscious Luis, or rather the certain intruder soul who took over his body, received Luis'' memories.

    ***

 Chapter 3: The Holy Dragon Knight.

    <h4>Chapter 3: The Holy Dragon Knight.</h4>

    Waking up from his two days slumber, Luis groggily opened his gray eyes. There was no panic or anxious expression on his face like before. He waspletely calm.

    He noticed his body wasn''t floating anymore, and he was lying on a bloodied, dry bed. All the injuries he received from his murder were already healed. He held his head while still trying to get over his experience.

    He sat up, feeling his hands and then his legs. It was a familiar yet unfamiliar feeling.

    ''How long has it been since I moved around on my own?''

    Looking around the room where he was unconscious for the past two days while his body was healing itself, covered in yellow lightning. He found the room familiar within a separate set of memories of that his own.

    His gaze fell on the room he was in. He was familiar cause it was his room. Not in his house but in a separate high-ss apartment in Lurandal city that he had purchased some time ago.

    He stood up after getting familiar with the unfamiliar body and walked in front of the human-sized mirror where he saw his reflection. A handsome dark-haired teenage boy with gray color eyes. His lean, chiseled body was healed but still covered in dried blood, whose disgusting smell made him nauseous.

    There were a lot of thoughts in his mind. But he pushed them aside, deciding to take a bath first because the smell was unbearable.

    He hurriedly went inside the bathroom to take a 1-hour long shower to remove the dried blood from his body patiently.

    He changed into a new set of clothes and went to a different room, then slumped on his bed and stared at the ceiling. Tears trickled down his eyes as hey there silently. Thinking about all that happened to him, he couldn''t help but cry tears in grief.

    ''I am sorry... Sis.'' His name was Ethan Gray. A 27-year-old man, a terminally ill patient whose only family left were his elder sister, her husband, and his nephew. Ever since his illness was discovered, he had been a great weight on his sister and her family, and even in his final moments, he felt remorseful for all the difficulty he had brought them. He had already epted his death when his consciousness faded from the sudden attack he had. He thought that was his end as he will fall into eternal slumber.

    At least that''s what it should have happened until he found himself in the body of someone else who was already murdered.

    From the memories he received, he found he was in a different world from his own. But because his soul merged with the memories of Luis left in his body, he had a somewhat understanding of his situation. Now that he had received Luis'' memory, he had already epted his new identity as Luis Suarez.

    ''I''m not Ethan anymore, I''m Luis. Luis Suarez, son of Ronald Suarez and Lumine Desmond.'' Thinking of this, Luis couldn''t help but sigh.

    "Now that I have taken over your body. I''ll live a good life for both of us and also take revenge for you. You can rest assured." Although he knew there was no point in saying all that, after all, old Luis was already dead. But maybe it was for his self-conscience, he decided to take that vow.

    Remembering the Assassin and how he brutally murdered the old Luis, his eyes were filled with hatred. Luis'' gray eyes had a dangerous glimmer on them.

    He took out the spare mana bracelet from the drawer and wore it. As soon as it was attached to his skin, it automatically registered Luis'' ID through his DNA.

    When Luis saw the number of missed calls from his parents, a cold sweat ran down his spine.

    [216 Missed Calls from Lumine Desmond.]

    [112 Missed Calls from Ronald Suarez.]

    There were also calls from his family butler but he had no time to check anymore as a beep sounded and another call came from his mother.

    *Beep*

    "Hey, Mom." Luis greeted her casually, as he normally does.

    The hologram of his mother''s face appeared in front of him as she nkly looked at him with a myriad of emotions. Relief, anxiety, anger, guilt, sorrow.

    "WHAT THE H*LL DO YOU MEAN ''Hey, Mom.''? WHERE WERE YOU THE LAST THREE DAYS? WHERE ARE YOU RIGHT NOW?", Lumine shouted in a rage, which he had expected.

    Luis felt guilty seeing her seething in anger.

    "Calm down Mom, I am fine." Hearing this, Lumine narrowed her eyes. "Remember the apartment I purchased in Lurandal City?" With her nod, he continued. "I''ll exin everything once I return home." Seeing his serious expression, Lumine calmed down. But regardless, she was angry.

    "Stay right there." Without waiting for his further exnation, she ended the call.

    *Beep*

    "Aw man, she is pissed."

    After the call ended, Luis'' eyes turned serious as he started searching for information on the inte confirming some information from his memories.

    "Ha, Haha." Augh escaped his mouth when he found how correct his assumption was. Then he became depressed because his assumption was correct.

    The world he was in was very familiar to Luis, not only in Luis'' memory but also in Ethan''s memory. The world he was in was extremely simr to the world in a game that he used to y with his nephew in the hospital bed.

    [The Holy Dragon Knight]

    This game was introduced to him by his nephew Mark, who was a 16-year-old teenager. Ethan and his sister had a big age difference between them. After he was admitted to the hospital, Mark would spend most of his time with Ethan after school.

    They were very close, and this was the game they yed together.

    Ethan doesn''t know much about the history of this game or the developers, but he still enjoyed the vast and interesting world depicted inside it.

    From what Ethan had learned from Mark, this game was very popr, and he believed it so.

 Chapter 4: The Game!!!

    <h4>Chapter 4: The Game!!!</h4>

    It was a hard-core game with more than thousands of different scenarios and only a very few happy endings. An adventure-action romance game where you have to chase girls and increase affection points with the characters to unlock many routes and scenarios for the adventures.

    A game full of Romance, Action, Tragedy, Drama, Gore, and Adventure. It was indeed an extremely violent game.

    You have to increase affection points with characters, but more than that, you had to survive. Even a single wrong choice may end up with the death of a certain character or the failure of that route.

    Thisplicated yet interesting game aroused the interest of many. So was the case for Ethan and Mark.

    There were many sequels of the game with multiple protagonists. So for thest 2 years of his life on the hospital bed, Ethan spent it ying this game with Mark.

    And now for some reason, Ethan was inside the body of someone who is in an extremely simr world to that of the world of [The Holy Dragon Knight.]

    ''I don''t remember any character named Luis Suarez.'' Luis understood the reason behind it must have been his death. Which he supposes happened even before the start of the story. ''But there was a mention of Suarez''s family in the storyline.''

    Before he could think anymore, he heard his doorbell ring. Standing in front of his apartment was a middle-aged man in a butler''s uniform.

    "Young master, as per My Lady''s orders, I''m here to escort you back."

    ''That was fast.'' Luis thought as he walked to the door. Coming out of his apartment, he said, "Let''s go."

    ***

    As the car started moving toward the transport junction of Lurandal City. Luis couldn''t help but take a look through the window of the car.

    ''I''m really in a different world.'' That thought came to his mind. Though he had known it in the memories of Luis, witnessing it from his own eyes, he couldn''t help but marvel at how mystical this world was.

    This world, which is also depicted in the game of [The Holy Dragon Knight] is known as Alnaur. Simr to the crimson neighboring known as Velmaur.

    It was not always like this. 800 years ago, a dimension break urred, which everyone believed would be the end of the world. But to everyone''s relief and horror, the dimension break led to the mixture of two separate worlds from different dimensions, which is now the current world known as Alnaur.

    Several humanoid species appeared. At first, things were drastic, everything was chaotic. Humans had no way to counter the powerful humanoid species in this newbined world. Plus, the influx of monsters and mana made everything chaotic.

    Over the years, many wars urred as everyone started adapting to the new world. Millions of people died, and many legends formed and ended. Humans poption was now down to 8 billion. They also managed to gain some firm foothold in the new chaotic world as they fought for their survival. Everything remained the same until 50 years ago.

    It was the era of ''The Great War''. Where several species band together and fought each other. It was at that time humanity''s heroes banded together with the heroes of their allied species and came forward to lead the war to victory and bring an era of peace.

    Species such as Elves, Humans, Dwarves, Beast-kin, and many others signed a peace treaty. Since then was the start of the development era. Humans also developed greatly with the technologies of other species.

    Now, since thest Great War, the world is at peace. At least on the surface. Because Luis knows once the story starts. The uing cmities would eventuallye.

    "Young Master, we have arrived." Butler''s words snapped him out of his thoughts as he noticed they have already arrived at their destination.

    A few men came to greet them warmly and took the lead, taking them to the VIP section. Luis'' expression was calm, already expecting this kind of behavior. After all, with his family''s status, this kind of behavior was normal.

    "The transport circle is already prepared, sir." The person who seemed to be in charge here said while leading them to the VIP room.

    Entering the room, Luis saw a 4-meter-wide magic circle drawn on the marble floor shining in white light. It was fully charged with magical energy. He knew that it was being fueled by mana stones.

    Mana stones are one of the most important resources in this world after the dimensional break 800 years ago. Whether it''s technology, mage craft, witchcraft, spell craft, and many others. Mana stones are an essential resource in this world.

    ''So, this magic circle can teleport me from here to another city in an instant? Amazing!!!'' Although Luis had experienced it a lot of times in his memory, which he always found normal, his knowledge ofmon sense is still affected by his previous life.

    ''In the game, I always used this magic circle. But using it in real life is unbelievable.'' Luis was very excited inwardly, but on the outside, he was as calm as a stillke.

    After he and his butler entered the magic circle. It was activated, and they both disappeared from there. In the next moment, the light on the magic circle dimmed, and it returned to normal.

    ***

    Luis opened his eyes and found himself in another room with the same magic circle drawn on the floor.

    He knew he had returned home. Inside the Suarez family estate, they have a personal magic circle drawn. Which is normally not allowed to be kept as private property because it is also heavy on the expense side.

    This can exin how much influence the Suarez family has. Because Luis'' grandfather was one of the heroes who participated in the great war 50 years ago. Though Luis had never met him, neither does he know if his grandfather was alive or not.

    Still, the Suarez family''s influence is one of the strongest in this country.

 Chapter 5: Return Home

    <h4>Chapter 5: Return Home</h4>

    Walking out of the room. Luis walked towards the mansion. The Suarez estate has a lot of properties inside it. The Main mansion, separate vis for guests and friends, residential quarters for servants, separate practice grounds for guards and family members, a vast garden with a variety of flowers, and herbs, and many other facilities. Overall, the entire estate is covered in an area of around 5000 square meters.

    Ignoring the mesmerizing scenery around him, Luis'' sole focus was on returning to the mansion as nervousness crept up on him, thinking of his mother, who was waiting for him.

    He knows that she is angry, and that got him even more nervous.

    Being greeted by the maids and the surrounding servants, Luis made his way to the mansion. As soon as he entered, he saw a figuree crashing down on him for a hug.

    "LUUIIISSS!!!"

    A beautiful woman with sliver blue hair and emerald green eyes, a voluptuous body, and a face that''s in no way middle-aged.

    Yes, it was Lumine, his mother. Even if she is in herte thirties, her looks are the same as that of a young woman in her early twenties. Even if she didn''t look young, human lifespans are long in this world, so she can''t be considered middle-aged.

    Seeing Lumine crying while hugging him, Luis couldn''t help but smile lightly as he also hugged her back.

    "I''m back, Mom." He said softly, with his heart full of emotions. It seems with Luis'' memories, he had already epted them as his parents. Though he does feel a little guilty about acting as their son who is, in fact, dead. But there''s nothing he can do about it after he became Luis, so he just epted he is who he is.

    Still in his arms, Lumine nodded and calmed down her burst of emotions. Then she looked into his eyes and gave him a death re.

    "I want an exnation." She said coldly while pulling him toward the sofa.

    Luis gulped and nodded his head, following her.

    "LUIS!"

    It didn''t take long for another shout toe. It was his father, Ronald Suarez. Jet ck hair with a handsome stature and gray eyes like his own. But seeing the dark circles under his eyes, Luis felt bad thinking about how much trouble he must have caused.

    "I''m back Dad." He replied with a smile while getting pulled by Lumine.

    Looking at his son, who seemed alright, Ronald breathed out a sigh of relief. He had been worried about his son for the past few days. Not being able to contact him or find him after all the searches made him restless. Ronald wanted to scold him for disappearing suddenly but seeing him alright, all his anger faded and Ronald was d.

    But seeing his wife dragging him to the sofa, Ronald felt a little pity for his son for the interrogation that was bound to happen. He also moved toward them. After all, he also wanted to talk with them.

    ***

    Luis sat on the sofa while looking at his mother and father, who sat opposite him, folding their arms. Lumine was squinting her brows, maybe showing her dissatisfaction or anger towards him. Ronald just sat calmly, letting his wife talk first.

    "Why did you leave without telling us?" Lumine asked with a frown on her face.

    Luis was a little hesitant to speak as he knew very well previous Luis'' thoughts and his reasons. Luis was suddenly informed that his parents were going to adopt his cousin, who is currently living with her sick mother, and that matter was eptable. As he was also close with her. But the other news of his sudden engagement, which was arranged by his family years back, shocked him.

    It''s not that he had any lover or any girl he was attracted to. It''s just that he was a little dissatisfied that he didn''t know about this engagement all these years. So he wanted to spend some time alone, and he went to Lurandal City to stay in his apartment to calm his emotions and that was a big mistake. As he was without protection and got assassinated.

    Thinking of all this, Luis couldn''t help but sigh. What''s done is done. He can''t me previous Luis for his choices or mistakes. Even though now it''s be a headache for him.

    "I wanted to spend some time alone to calm myself," Luis said calmly.

    Lumine wasn''t satisfied with his answer. She became a little angry and scolded.

    "THEN WHY DIDN''T YOU CONTACT US AND TELL US ANYTHING? YOU WERE MISSING FOR THE WHOLE THREE DAYS. AT LEAST YOU COULD HAVE ANSWERED ME BACK. We were worried sick." Lumine was exasperated. At the end of her sentence, tears starteding out of her eyes.

    Ronald patted Lumine''s back and also said. "Yeah, your Mom is right Luis. Although you wanted to spend some time alone. You should have informed us."

    Luis'' parents loved him a lot. His sudden disappearance caused them a lot of grief for which he felt guilty. Ronaldforted Lumine for some time and Luis sat silently watching them. Soon, his mother calmed down and started thinking back on his words. "Is it because of the engagement?"

    Hearing his wife''s words, Ronald also quickly followed up as he said. "If you didn''t want that engagement, you could have said so. We can cancel it. We only want the best for you."

    Ronald also assumed the same as his wife. His son might have a crush on someone, that''s why he didn''t want this engagement and left home.

    Hearing Ronald''s words, Lumine also calmed down and started thinking things calmly.

    ''Although Luis'' fiancee is a pretty good girl. If he likes someone else, that exins why he was against the engagement even before he met her.'' Lumine came to this conclusion as she thought of a love drama she used to watch.

    "Yeah, Luis, if you have a girlfriend or have someone you like, just tell us we will cancel the engagement right now." Although Lumine was a little sad because she couldn''t fulfill her promise to her best friend, she can''t go against her child''s happiness. She will fully support him.

 Chapter 6: The Assassination Attempt.

    <h4>Chapter 6: The Assassination Attempt.</h4>

    Luis smiled wryly at hearing his parent''s words. He knew they misunderstood him, so he decided to clear the misunderstanding first.

    Shaking his head, he said, "No, Mom, although I was a little dissatisfied that no one told me about the engagement before. It''s not the reason why I couldn''t contact you."

    ""Couldn''t?"" Both Ronald and Lumine raised their brows at his choice of words.

    Luis took a deep breath and said. "I was attacked by assassins."

    *Boom*

    Like a bombshell was dropped out of nowhere. As if thunderstruck inside their minds at this sudden revtion. Their faces turned extremely serious and bloodlust started emitting from their bodies.

    Luis felt a bit ufortable under the intense pressure, so they immediately retracted it. Lumine jumped out of the sofa and hurriedly check Luis for any injuries. Tracing her hands all over his body, she asked worriedly.

    "Are you hurt anywhere?" Her voice was shaky as she held him close to her.

    "I am fine, Mom," Luis cradled her hand and calmly looked into her eyes, assuring her. "I''m alright."

    Hearing his calm words, Lumine''s eyes turned moist as she hugged him tightly while tears dripped out of her eyes.

    He gently patted her back, trying to calm her down as he saw his father''s expression, which had turned extremely ugly in anger.

    Lumine broke the hug as she turned to Ronald. Her expression was fierce while tears kept bawling out of her eyes."I want them dead."

    Ronald wasn''t surprised, as he also felt the same. "Someone dared to attempt an assassination on my son." He was full of rage, but Luis cut him off.

    "It wasn''t just an attempt, they were almost sessful."

    ""WHAT?"" His words shook their souls.

    Luis started recounting what had happened. Three days ago, when he decided to have some alone time to calm his mind. He went to Lurandal City''s Botanical Vige Park. It''s one of the popr attractions of Lurandal City. It wasn''t the first time he went out alone, but it was definitely the first time something like this transpired.

    Anyway, after his tour, while returning, he was met with an unfortunate encounter when a passerby ''identally'' brushed past his mana bracelet, destroying it. Because he wasn''t awakened, he could only use the basic features of mana bracelets that an unawakened can use. As such, its hiding option was not avable.

    That passerby apologized and wanted to make up for it. He was with a child, so Luis let down his guard a little. They told him they resided near the slums and wanted to apologize to him with a meal, as they didn''t have money topensate him.

    Under the child''s urging, Luis, who wanted to take his mind off things, didn''t think much of it and agreed. It was only after he was slowly cornered and separated from the crowd, Luis felt the area was deserted, so out of instinct, he tried checking his back to feel the pistol he hid in his back.

    Though he was cautious against someone truly strong, how could that pistol be effective? That was what happened. That man and child disappeared out of thin air and a trap artifact activated, leading him directly to the Assassin. The Assassin was very powerful. Also, Luis wasn''t an awakened.

    Luis recounted his struggles to survive, how he was injured, and how his body was thrown into the river by the Assassin who thought Luis was dead.

    Hearing Luis'' experiences, both Ronald and Lumine were petrified on the spot. Their son suffered so much. They were ming themselves for not being able to protect him.

    Ronald''s self-ming eyes suddenly looked at Luis, as if wanting to ask something. It is not that he doubts Luis'' words. But he wanted to know how was he rescued. And what about his injuries? He couldn''t ess his mana bracelet, so he didn''t have a high-grade healing elixir with him.

    Without waiting for them to question it, Luis did something that shocked them speechless.

    "You have awakened!!?" Both Lumine and Ronald eximed out loud as they felt the mana energy around him. Though they were shocked and happy, they were still having a serious conversation, so they immediatelyposed themselves.

    Luis nodded his head in agreement and raised his right hand. Small yellow sparks formed on his fingers and vanished a secondter when put his hand down.

    "Li - Lightning!!?" This time theirposure broke as they stared at their son in disbelief.

    Why wouldn''t they be? After all, the Lightning attribute is one of the rarest attributes in this world. A person born with a Lightning attribute and good talents can easily be considered a genius.

    Although they didn''t know their son''s talents, the Lightning attribute already gave them a big enough shock. No more importantly.

    "Natural awakening!!?"

    Luis nodded calmly and said.

    "Inside the river when I felt myself dying as I was surrounded by Sea Hyenas I felt something inside me changing and I awakened Lightning attribute and roasted them with the sparks of my attribute awakening."

    ''Huh? Luis was already dead by then so, How do I know this? Weird.'' This thought came to his mind, but he didn''t understand what happened. So he kept this matter aside for now.

    Hearing Luis'' words, they were worried for their son who escaped death, and happy that he was safe. But they were still furious and wanted to find those assassins and cut them to pieces and find the person who wanted to kill their son and roast him alive. But they still held their anger inside them to not affect their son with the pressure.

    Lumine hugged him tightly and said. "You have suffered so much, my son. I''m sorry, Mother wasn''t there for you when you experienced such hardships." Lumine bit her lips to hold back her tears. She felt ashamed of herself for being angry at her son and med herself for being an ipetent mother who almost lost her son.

    In his mother''s embrace, Luis felt a warm sensation enveloping his body. Although he acted calmly before, he was still a little ufortable epting them as his new parents, only based on Luis'' memories. He thought it might be difficult for him. But for some reason, he could feel his sincere emotions toward them. At this moment, a question came to his mind.

    ''Was it only his memories and body that I inherited?''

 Chapter 7: "How long will you hold my hand for?"

    <h4>Chapter 7: "How long will you hold my hand for?"</h4>

    Shaking his head, he said. "It''s not your fault, Mom. Everything is because I was foolish and acted rashly. But I''m fine now, see."

    Luis wiped the tears from her eyes, then he continued. "I don''t know how it happened, but when I woke up, I found myself inside our apartment in Droverk Towers."

    Luis didn''t say the part where the previous Luis died and he (Ethan) took over.

    "The wounds on my body were very painful. At that moment, my Lightning attribute activated and covered my entire body. At first, I was shocked, but then I noticed that my wounds were healing rapidly. But my mind was way past the exhaustion point, so I went unconscious and woke up today." Luis said all that in one breath. He saw their expressions and, as expected, they were stunned speechless.

    "... Lightning attribute has healing ability?" Ronald asked after a long pause. Because this was the first time he heard something like this.

    Lumine was the same, looking at her son with bright eyes.

    "I don''t know," Luis said with a shrug. It was the truth. After all, even in previous Luis'' memories, he never heard of something like that. At first, he wanted to hide it, but decided against it. It doesn''t matter. He can tell this to his parents. If he can''t trust his loving parents, he might as well die in this cruel world.

    Ronald had a thoughtful look on his face. After some time, he nodded, thinking of something as if he made up his mind.

    "Luis, you go rest first and we will talk in an hour. I have something to prepare." With those words, Ronald turned to Lumine and said in a soft voice, "Prepare something for him to eat first. He must be hungry."

    "Un" Lumine nodded and pulled Luis'' hand toward his room. She ordered a maid to bring Luis food to his bedroom before taking him towards his bedroom.

    As soon as they left his sight, Ronald''s eyes turned extremely cold. He clenched his fist tightly, holding his anger. He closed his eyes to take a deep breath and calm himself down.

    "Jack." His voice was cold without emotions.

    Soon, a shadow of a person appeared near him. It was a man with blue hair and a small scar near his right eye.

    "Find out who is behind this." Jack nodded and left.

    Ronald was left behind alone in silence. Many thoughts crossed his mind. What would he have done if he lost his son? This dangerous thought alone made him shiver.

    He stood up and walked out of the mansion. Now that his son had awakened, naturally, he had some things to prepare.

    ***

    On the other side, Lumine took Luis to his room. All this time, she didn''t let his hand go. As if afraid if she did so, something bad might happen to him.

    Luis felt strangely warm in his heart. In his previous life, his parents died when he was very young. His elder sister, who was already a working adult, took care of him in their ce. He was always grateful for his sister, who took care of him for all those years. He was also saddened by the fact that he died without doing anything for his sister. Even until thest moment, he thought of himself as a burden for her.

    If only he didn''t exist, she would have been happy with her husband and son, instead of wasting her time and money on him. Those kinds of thoughts always filled his mind.

    But now that he thinks about it, he never knew what his sister felt when she took care of him. He never thought about it from her perspective. He only listened to people cursing him for being a nuisance in his sister''s life.

    Those sharp words of society were like sharp knives for the young Ethan who lost his parents. Slowly, he started ming himself for everything. Even though he tried to act fine inwardly, he was at a breaking point. When his illness was discovered. He knew his end wasing and, at some point; he died.

    Now here he was living in someone else''s body and acting like their son who is long dead. When he looked at the small hand that was holding him tightly as if afraid of letting him go. He couldn''t help but think about what would have happened if he didn''t enter Luis'' body.

    Would they know their son died? Or will they keep searching for him in the hopes of finding him?

    Luis now knew in the game when the Suarez family was mentioned, Luis was long dead. Because in a certain back story, there was a mention of the son of Ronald Suarez and Lumine Desmond, who went missing and was never found again. It was a mystery what happened to him. But now he knows.

    While he was still in his thoughts, he was already in front of his bedroom door. With her other hand, Lumine pushed open the door and walked inside, pulling his hand.

    She walked to his massive king-sized bed and let him sit there while she sat beside him, still holding his hand.

    "Um, Mom,"

    "What is it, honey?" Lumine asked softly. Wondering if Luis is feeling ufortable somewhere. "Don''t worry, I''ve called the doctor. He will be arriving soon."

    "You called a doctor?" Luis was stunned. Because he already mentioned that he was fine. There''s no need for a doctor.

    As if she read his mind, she said. "Even if you are fine, it''s not a bad idea to get yourself checked."

    Resigning to her words and nodding his head, he answered her first question with a question. "How long are you going to hold my hand?"

    "Until the doctores."

    "I see."

    "..."

    There was silence in the room as Luis didn''t know what to say at this moment. He knew previously Luis used to talk with her a lot, so this silence was abnormal. But what can he do? He was still awkwardly adjusting to Luis'' life.

 Chapter 8: Determination

    <h4>Chapter 8: Determination</h4>

    Lumine didn''t find his change abnormal. After all the life and death experiences Luis went through. It was normal for there to be a change in his mentality. But Lumine was still worried about him. She was worried if her son was really alright or just acting tough.

    She knew his physical wounds might have been healed, but the near-death experience could have be a trauma for him. That is why she didn''t want to leave him alone. She wanted him to let out everything. But she couldn''t find the right words toe out of her mouth.

    So she just touched his cheek gently and said, "I''m d you are alright, son." Her eyes started turning moist. "W-When I imagine myself losing you. I don''t know what I would have done." Her voice was shaky.

    Luis felt his heart tighten seeing his mother like this. He gentlyforted her with his words. "I''m alright now, Mom," he stopped and Lumine turned to look into his eyes to check whether he was lying for her sake.

    But what she saw were bright, determined eyes as he continued. "I don''t want a repeat of this feeling of being weak. That''s why I will get stronger. I''ll be so strong that nothing can threaten my life. Then you won''t have to worry."

    His words were domineering. Some might think of him as na?ve and childish, or a pampered youth who don''t know the world. It might have been the case for the old Luis. Because he was unaware of the true dangers of the world.

    But for the new Luis, that was not the case. In his memory from the game, he was certain this world was very dangerous. Even in the game, he died a lot of times and still couldn''tplete all the routes and someter sequels.

    Now he didn''t even have the protagonist''s power, and this was a real world where there was no restart. He knows the dangers in the real world are far stronger than he can ascertain from the game''s knowledge. Still knowing all that, Luis wanted to be the strongest. Because he knew that was the only way for him to survive in this strong eats weak world. Even if his parents were strong, they can''t always protect him. He can only depend on his strength to live.

    Before Lumine could say anything, there was a knock on the door.

    "Mydy. Young master. The food is here."

    Lumine immediatelyposed herself, as she said in a calm tone.

    "Come in."

    After getting permission, the maids entered the room and served the food to Young Master Luis.

    Luis saw the variety of dishes and couldn''t help but gulp his saliva in anticipation. After all, he went unconscious for three days just aftering to this world and he has yet to eat anything.

    Seeing the number of dishes in front of him, Luis couldn''t wait anymore. He immediately grabbed a te and started munching down on the food, not caring about table manners.

    The maids were dumbfounded seeing their young master act like this. After all, they all know how refined the young master always is. From his table manners to his temperament, everything is so refined, as if it''s a performance of art.

    But now the same young master is eating food without caring about anything. Which made them wonder what happened to the young master while he was out.

    Luis left the home three days ago. So all the servants knew that the young master went missing and has just returned. That''s why they were happy. After all, everyone loved him because he always treated them with care.

    But seeing him munching food hungrily, they felt something must have happened, which worried them.

    As Luis kept eating and his hunger calmed down, his actions became refined and he started eating the food gracefully. Luis was dumbfounded by his body''s natural body movements. They were so refined and graceful, as if he was performing.

    From his memory, he knew it was normal for the past Luis, so he couldn''t help but wonder, ''Is this one of Luis'' talents?''

    He felt this was the most probable reason. Because other than basic etiquette and some basic piano lessons. The old Luis had never studied it seriously. But everything was just so natural for him.

    In his memory, after his first introduction to piano, he never practiced it again. Or took sses to learn it. But he can y it very well.

    So this was the only conclusion Luis came to. It must be one of Luis'' talents.

    Talents.

    In this world, people are born with some kind of talent that differentiates a genius from an ordinary. The majority of the people don''t have any talents. So they can only push through with hard work.

    But having a talent is an entirely different matter. If one has talent and puts in hard work, refining their talents. Their growth can be many times faster than a person with no talent.

    The better the talent you have, the higher the potential. Normally, knowing what talent someone possesses is not possible. But what world we are in? Here, even magic is possible. Why can''t someone know about their talents? One of the conditions to know one''s talents is that one needs to possess some sort of energy. For example, an awakened can ess and use mana energy, which is the mostmon form of energy for many species.

    But that is just one of the conditions. Luis knew that just being awakened is not enough to know his talents.

    ''I better find out my talents first before I start making my future ns.'' With this thought, he had already finished eating his meal. He took out a tissue to wipe his mouth off the leftovers of his previous munching.

    When they noticed his actions, everyone sighed in relief. ''It seems young master was just a little hungry.'' Seeing everything was alright and the young master had his meal. They took the empty tes and made their way out of the room, and bowed respectfully as they left.

 Chapter 9: "Is my fiancee beautiful?"

    <h4>Chapter 9: "Is my fiancee beautiful?"</h4>

    After sending off the doctor and ensuring Luis was safe. Now Luis and Lumine were left alone inside the room. When Luis was eating, Lumine had sent a message to her father (Luis'' maternal grandfather) to help in searching for Luis'' assassins. After all, the Desmond family''s informationwork is one of the best in this country. So she believed they will be able to find them.

    Now focusing on Luis, she asked. "So, you aren''t against the engagement?" Lumine just wanted to change the topic and let their minds focus on something else instead of the incident.

    Luis didn''t know why she asked this suddenly, but he calmly replied. "I haven''t met her yet and I don''t know anything about her. So I don''t agree yet."

    Lumine nodded her head slightly, and a mischievous smile formed across her face. "Ara, that''s good news. I thought you had a girlfriend or something. It would have been a shame to let go of such a wonderful daughter-inw."

    Hearing this, Luis'' interest was piqued. After all, he still doesn''t know who his fiance is.

    "By the way, who is my fiancee?"

    "Are you curious?" Lumine asked with a raised eyebrow.

    Luis nodded his head.

    "Do you want to know if she is beautiful?" She asked again.

    "Yes," Luis nodded his head in anticipation.

    "Then listen..." she closed in near him and said. "I won''t tell you."

    "..."

    Luis was dumbfounded. He wanted to scream. ''What the hell was all that build-up for?'' But he knew his mother was enjoying this, so he could only smile bitterly.

    Lumine was having fun seeing Luis'' reaction. "If you want to know, you should just meet her."

    Thinking of something, her face changed into a sigh as she said. "Well, you two were supposed to meet two days ago. But you weren''t here. So the new appointment should be arranged soon."

    Luis nodded his head in understanding. To be honest, it''s fine by him if he gets a good wife arranged by his parents because he knows very well that with his experience of previous life, he could never woo a girl.

    So it''s better if his parents arrange for a good girl to be his future wife. He doesn''t care about her beauty as long as she is pleasing to his eyes. It''s fine by him.

    At this moment, they heard the butler knocking outside the door.

    "Mydy. Young master. Master is awaiting your presence."

    Lumine and Luis stood up wondering what does Ronald want to do. Coming back to the living room, they saw Ronald standing there with a ck box in his arms.

    The box was very well designed, but one can also notice its sturdiness at a nce. Though they were curious, they waited for Ronald to speak first.

    Ronald gestured for them to follow him and took them out of the mansion toward the mana training room.

    As the name suggests, it was a facility inside the estate to train the mana. Although the resources are very expensive so it''s not used frequently. Also, after reaching a certain level of strength, it''s not much effective. Inside the room is a mana-gathering magic formation that densely concentrates the mana energy from the mana cores and surroundings.

    So training of mana is very effective in this room. But that''s not all. This room can also be used for artificial awakening.

    "Now that Luis had already awakened, there''s no need to go through artificial awakening. So why are we here, dear?" Lumine was puzzled as she asked.

    "I know," Ronald nodded in affirmation, then he nced at Luis and said, "But his mana core is still not stable, so we should help him." He continued. "I have prepared an S-rank mana gem for his awakening. Now it can help to stabilize and strengthen his mana core."

    As said, people may go through a Natural awakening or an Artificial awakening. When Luis died and Ethan''s soul entered his body. It was at that moment he naturally awakened.

    For artificial awakening, people use Mana gems in a ce with high-density mana and use outside force, such as a strong awakened to guide the mana energy manually and open mana channels inside the body, helping it create a core. Natural awakening is not torturous or painful as artificial awakening is.

    In Artificial awakening, there''s a chance of deteriorating the individual''s potential in case a low-quality gem is used or if there''s a mistake in the process, it can very well be deadly.

    Mana gems are not the same as mana stones. Mana stones are a mineral that can be mined from dungeons or ces with highly concentrated mana. Mana gems are like a rare treasure that can only be found in and above the C-rank monster bosses.

    The S-rank Mana gem which Ronald brought for Luis was the rarest, as finding a mana gem from a boss of the S-rank dungeon is no easy task.

    When they arrived at the dome structured building. Ronald leads them inside a room. As soon as he entered the room, Luis could feel high-density mana there, making his body full of vigor.

    "Take off your shirt and sit cross-leg at the center, Luis," Ronald instructed while pointing at the center of the magic circle.

    Luis nodded his head with a solemn expression and took off his shirt, showing his chiseled body. He sat at the center of the magic circle as instructed by Ronald.

    Ronald then opened the ck box he was holding, taking out a purple gem half the size of his finger. It was the S-grade mana gem, a treasure so rare that people could die for.

    ''Is it the difference between the rich and the ordinary in the world?'' Luis shook off unnecessary thoughts and focused on the gem which Ronald put in his palm.

    "Swallow it and don''t resist the energy." With those words, Ronald took a seat behind him and put his palms on his back.

    Luis did what he was told and closed his eyes to concentrate on the flow of the mana energy inside him. As soon as he swallowed the gem, he felt as if a dam broke inside him.

 Chapter 10: Talents

    <h4>Chapter 10: Talents</h4>

    Highly concentrated pure unrefined mana surged out of the mana gem, entering his body. If he can''t control the energy flow in time, his weak body won''t be able to handle such a vast amount of mana and he may explode from mana overdose.

    That is also the reason why someone powerful with good control over mana is needed to help control this energy. In Luis'' case, Ronald started controlling the vast amount of mana and let them merge with the existing mana inside his body. It was easy for him to let the energy flow through the mana channels, which were already opened because of Luis'' natural awakening.

    In the process of artificial awakening forcefully opening those channels is taxing to the person controlling the energy and very torturous and painful for the person being awakened.

    But for Luis now, it was a very refreshing experience. As if he was soaking in a hot spring. His body was full of vigor. He felt a vast amount of energy inside him.

    Though sometimes there was a slight pain. It was manageable. After all, he had experienced much worse. This process continued for the next 5 hours. Luis'' entire body was soaking in sweat by the time they were done.

    Ronald took a deep breath and said, "Done."

    After a moment, Luis stood and felt as if his control over mana has increased and his body has be powerful, and the quality of mana is much purer than before.

    "How do you feel?" Ronald asked with a smile.

    "It''s amazing," Luis replied excitedly.

    "Come, let''s check your talents and confirm your affinity."

    Luis nodded his head while taking the towel from Lumine and wiping his sweat.

    Ronald took them to another room inside the same building. This room was very in, with white marble on all sides. There was no magic circle or anything, just an ancient te near the front wall.

    Luis knew what it was, but Ronald still introduced it.

    "It''s an ancient talent detection stone. Once you pass your mana energy on that tablet, it will determine your talents. Then you can connect the data with your mana bracelet."

    Though the stone was ancient with the advancement of technology and mage craft. They were able to infuse ancient technology into modern technology and use them.

    As Luis said, it is one of the methods of determining talents. But this one with the ancient talent detection stone gives the most urate data of all.

    Those who are born with talents are called geniuses among the ordinary. But among geniuses also there are grades. A talent is graded from

    E --> D --> C --> B --> A -->S

    E is the lowest and S is the highest potential.

    The higher the grade, the higher the talent and potential of that individual in that certain field.

    In this world, people can awaken up to three talents at their birth. At least that''s what general knowledge says. An individual with a fighting talent of B-grade can be considered very good. A-grade is praised as geniuses and if someone has S-grade talent, then they are just considered monsters.

    It doesn''t mean that only people with those talents can learn it. Even if they don''t have talent for a certain aspect, they can learn it with practice. It just there will be a certain gap between people with talent and people without talent.

    For example, if a person doesn''t have a talent for swordsmanship. If he works hard, he can still be powerful and learn the techniques. Though it may take years. But a person with talent can learn the same technique in less time. The higher the talent more easily theyprehend it. If a person has A-rank talent, he may take a few hours to a day toprehend the techniques, while a person without talent may take years or maybe even decades.

    Of course, effort needs to be put into practice.

    But normally, even if people don''t have talents, they still practice it. Because having talents doesn''t mean everything if they can''t use them properly. Though if a person has Archery Talent and they practice swordsmanship, then it''s a waste of talent. But it doesn''t mean they can''t be a strong swordsman. Just it will take a lot more effort.

    Luis knew very well once the story of the game starts, individuals with A and S-grade talents will be asmon as melons in summer. Anyway, most of the heroines and other important characters have A and S-grade talents. As for the first protagonist, Luis was sure he had 4 S-grade talents. Just like the heroes of humanity who fought in the great war 50 years ago.

    It is said that people can only have up to three talents, but there are individuals with four or more talents. But they are all powerhouses, so the general popce is unaware.

    Anyway, for bing stronger in this world, talent matters a lot. That''s why Luis was a little anxious, wondering what kind of talents he had.

    Now that he had awakened, he can find out the answer. This result will decide whether he will involve himself in the game story or stay far away from it.

    The te was connected to a screen which will not only show the data of his talents but his attribute and other information. Such as bloodline, rank, physique, skills, techniques, and titles.

    Luis stepped towards the tablet with slow and steady steps and ced his palm on it, channeling his mana energy into it.

    Ronald and Lumine were also looking at the screen in anticipation.

    ''If I don''t have at least one A-grade talent, I''ll just leave this country and go far away from here and wait for the story to end. Either everyone survives or everyone dies.'' With that thought, he opened his eyes to see the final result.

    His eyes were wide open in shock, as if he had seen a ghost. The same was the case for Luis'' parents, who were watching from aside. They were in disbelief.

 Chapter 11: Overwhelming

    <h4>Chapter 11: Overwhelming</h4>

    ***

    [Name] : Luis Suarez

    [Race] : Human

    [Age] : 16

    [Rank] : Rookie ������(G)

    [Affinity] : Lightning (Hidden : Space)

    [Talent Awakened] : Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent] : Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique] : None

    [Bloodline] : Unawakened

    [Titles] : None

    [Skills] : None

    [Techniques] : Basic Martial Arts

    [Mana Core] : Rank E -

    ***

    ''Even if I said there are people with more than 4 talents. I have never heard of anyone, even in the game with 6 talents. Furthermore, 5 of them are S-grade.'' Luis rubbed his eyes, again and again, to confirm whether he was seeing wrong.

    But no matter how many times he did that, the result was the same, and [Hidden : Space]

    ''Dual attribute? Is that even possible? I know that attributes can mutate, but having two attributes is unprecedented. Moreover, one is Lightning, which is already considered a rarity, and the other is Space, which can be considered a legend.''

    Augh escaped his mouth. ''It seems I can push through with the n to be the strongest.''

    He paused for a moment and thought.

    ''Is it because of this Space attribute talent that I somehow managed to return to the apartment from the river?'' While this question was on his mind, his eyes stopped at a certain information and another question came to his mind.

    ''Hm? I have an S-Grade Martial arts talent. Then shouldn''t it have been easy for Luis to learn Martial art forms that his parents taught in his childhood? Why was his learning talent average for martial arts?''

    Luis was thinking then, as if realization struck him and an answer came to his mind.

    ''Is it because my soul merged with Luis'' body?''

    This was the only conclusion he came to. This also exins why he has 6 talents and two attributes. Maybe the original Luis had a Lightning affinity and three talents. While Ethan had Space Affinity and three talents.

    In Ethan''s previous world, magic was only fictional, so that may be the reason why he couldn''t ess his Space attribute and even if he had talents for Illusionist and Sorceror, he couldn''t learn them. As for Martial arts, he never tried it.

    ''So if my guess is true, I could have be a martial artist in my previous life. Maybe even the best in the world. Well, it doesn''t matter anymore.''

    ''Sharpshooter exins why I''m good with guns. Technician, I need to figure it out slowly. Performer, hmm, so that talent was in effect while I was eating. Illusionist and Sorcerer both of them will be important to me in the future. As I have Martial arts talent, I won''t be weak in closebat. I don''t have any special Physique nor my Bloodline is awakened. My Mana core is rank E-, awesome. As for my overall rank, is Rookie one star, which is normal as I am newly awakened.'' While Luis was still thinking inwardly and imagining the things he would do in the future with a gleam on his face.

    Luis'' parents were petrified in shock at the information revealed in front of them.

    Ronald looked at his son as if he was looking at some unknown entity. While Lumine was overjoyed. Though she was surprised, she was happy for her son. ''That means his words weren''t all talk. My son can really be the strongest.''

    Lumine closed her mouth, and a small tear escaped her eyes. She felt proud of her son.

    "Luis," Ronald called in a small whisper, but audible enough for them to hear.

    "Hm?" Luis turns to his father, snapping out of his thoughts.

    "Is-Is that correct?" Ronald''s voice cracked as he pointed his finger where the information was shown.

    Only now did Luis remember how muchmotion this information could cause. He smiled wryly while letting out a sigh, thinking, ''So troublesome.''

    "Yeah, I guess."

    Hearing his t tone, Ronald''s lips twitched. But then he shook his head and smiled happily.

    "Hahaha, as expected of my son, you have fully inherited my genes. You are born to do great things."

    Lumine was a little annoyed with Ronald''s narcissism. But she was too happy to rebuke him.

    She moved forward and hugged Luis happily. She continued praising him and telling him how proud she was. With all the praises, Luis was a little embarrassed, but with his Performer talent, he hid it perfectly under a confident and cool expression.

    Coming out of the mana training room, Ronald said. "But really, I am so proud of you. My son." Then his expression turned serious as he said.

    "Also, Luis, I think you should hide one of your attributes."

    Ronald had updated Luis''s information with his Mana bracelet after it scanned Luis'' DNA. So now all its functions are avable to Luis. Ronald wasn''t worried about his data being leaked because Mana Bracelet can''t be hacked. It can only be essed by the person''s DNA, so without the individual''s permission, no one can ess his data.

    Though still, people can make their spections about his talents and attribute by just witnessing it.

    Luis nodded his head and said, "That''s what I n to do, Dad." He also understands where his father ising from. Although their family has a lot of power in this country. They also have many enemies and people with ill intentions toward them. So revealing Luis as a dual attribute user or a person with 6 talents will only arouse jealousy and may create unnecessary problems. Though Luis was confident, they would be jealous regardless. But the troubles will be less.

    He knew Ronald was probably investigating his enemies on suspicion of Luis'' assassination attempt. But Luis knew his search would be meaningless because that organization is under ''that'' person and they are hidden very deep. Though Luis has an idea of how to find clues about them from the game. But for now, he will let his father handle it to some extent and involve himselfter.

    ''It''s better if he thoroughly investigates our enemies because of this incident. That will be useful in the future.''

    Thinking of this with his parents, he returned to the Mansion. A butler was standing near the entrance. But Luis didn''t find him familiar. "It''s not someone who works for us." He murmured.

    Lumine seemed to have heard him as she generously answered his doubt.

    "Of course, he is a butler from your fiancee''s family."

 Chapter 12: Narcissist

    <h4>Chapter 12: Narcissist</h4>

    "How can someone be so handsome?" Luis uttered, looking at his reflection in the mirror.

    ''Even in my previous life, I''ve never seen someone so handsome. Not that I am interested in guys, but I just have to mention I am very handsome.''

    The maid who stood near the door seemed to have heard him. Her eyes subconsciously nced at Luis. She nodded secretly as she admired his manly body. ''Indeed, very handsome.'' She thought, but she kept those thoughts to herself.

    ''But it was unusual for the Young master to be so narcissistic.'' Though she couldn''t deny him, as it was the truth and she had no intentions of letting her thoughts known.

    As the maid left, Luis was done admiring himself as he sat on his bed, crossing his leg in a meditative posture, and started practicing the mana breathing method given by his father.

    Mana Breathing, as the name suggests, is the raw intake of mana from the surroundings and refining it inside the body. Although the exnation is simple, it''s actually not easy, as it requires a series of steps to be followed.

    This can be used to recover the mana inside the body, or refine or strengthen the mana core.

    There are several breathing methods out there, but the one Luis was following was hereditary. Only members of their family are allowed to practice it. Why? because it''s stronger than normal breathing methods and mana refining is much more efficient and stronger.

    Normally, the time it takes for people to learn Mana breathing methods is from a few days to a month. In the worst case, even half a year.

    But who was Luis? Would he need that much time? Of course not. Because of his awesome talents, it wasn''t difficult for him to start practicing this breathing method.

    As his breathing became steady, his mind became calm and the mana particles in the surrounding started gathering towards him. Slowly, they entered Luis'' body, traveling through the mana channels and finally into the mana core to stabilize it. It was a very slow and tedious process. Luis was getting ustomed to mana breathing.

    After a few hours, he didn''t have to be in a meditative state to do mana breathing. He could walk around and keep using mana breathing. He wanted his mana breathing to be as normal and casual as his normal breathing. Though it did take him some effort.

    Now that he was able to do it casually, he decided to think about the other matters.

    "It will be tonight."

    It''s been a day since his fiancee''s family butler came to their mansion. Both families have made an appointment for tonight''s dinner. So the talk about his engagement, which was dyed until today, will be finalized.

    "I wonder who she is?" Luis had tried asking Lumine about his fiancee but he didn''t get any answer from her, she even stopped Ronald from telling him.

    ''What kind of surprise is she nning?'' Waiting in anticipation, Luis started thinking of different scenarios, running his imagination wild.

    ''Is the girl so beautiful that she will blow my mind? Maybe not.''

    ''Don''t tell me it''s an older woman? Nah, Luis'' parents aren''t that heartless towards their son. They dote on him a lot.''

    ''Also, even if my mental age is higher than my physical age. I won''t go around chasing older women. I mean, why should I?''

    ''Will she be cute and cheerful type? That may be good, but I''m not good at hyping up.''

    ''Maybe she is smart and into research and stuff?''

    ''Hm? Why am I thinking about the types of heroines in The Holy Dragon Knight?'' Shaking his head, Luis thought.

    ''There''s no way it''s one of them. Right? I don''t remember any plot like that.''

    ''Well, whoever it is. I''ll get to meet them tonight.''

    ''There''s only three months left before I join the academy and also the start of the first game. I have a lot to prepare.'' Although Luis thought so, he had already stopped thinking of this world as a game. After all, this world was as real as it can get.

    His parents, his life, this, everything was real for him. So instead of treating it as a game, he preferred to use the game as a reference for his actions.

    Time flew by as the sun had already set and the entire estate was brightly lit in illuminance, waiting to wee their guest. Though it was just a dinner between families. It was an important asion as such all the maids gave their all in preparing for the wee and the chefs made the finest dishes they could. After all, today''s guest may end up bing their futuredy. So they can''t be careless (or so they thought).

    Seeing that it was almost time. Luis opened his wardrobe and took out a in suit and dressed up casually. He indeed looked formal and not too shy. Because of his dashing looks, his in clothes ended up boosting his mour. It can be said the clothes did a perfect job showing off his natural charm.

    "It should be fine." Looking at himself, Luis thought, ''Handsome people look good in anything.''

    *Knock* *Knock*

    "Luis, are you ready?"

    Luis opened the door in response. Lumine stood there in front of him. She wore a green dress matching her beautiful eyes and styled her hair into braids, then folded them into a bun.

    "You look gorgeous, Mom." Luis praised her, just like how the previous Luis used to. As expected, Lumine was delighted as she also looked at him carefully.

    "Hm, simple and handsome. As expected of my son."

    Luis smiled slightly and both of them went downstairs to see Ronald waiting for them.

    "I can understand Lumine taking time to get ready. But why did you take so long, Luis?" Ronald seemed a little dissatisfied while waiting too long.

    Luis was embarrassed and didn''t know what to say. ''I was busy admiring myself. No way I can say that.''

 Chapter 13: Alicia Raven

    <h4>Chapter 13: Alicia Raven</h4>

    "I was checking some interesting articles online."

    "Oh?" Hearing this, Ronald''s interest piqued.

    "It''s about an unusual low-level dungeon. I''ll tell you about itter." Though Luis was bull-shitting. Half of what he said was true. Such a dungeon exists, but it''s not the time to deal with it. Of course, it''s better if his father''s guild purchases the right for that dungeon.

    Putting that matter aside.

    "Are they not here yet?"

    "They have arrived at the Transportation room just now. Will be arriving at the mansion any minute."

    "Ah, here they are." With Lumine''s words, Luis'' eyes subconsciously nced toward the entrance.

    Luis'' mind went nk of any unnecessary thoughts, and only one thought remained.

    ''So beautiful.''

    Blue eyes as deep as the ocean and as beautiful as aquamarine, the treasure of mermaids. Her skin was a perfect porcin white, with no blemishes and a smoothness that seemed tock any impurities. Her thin eyebrows and those delicate yet small rose-colored lips. Her raven-like hair was so smooth and reflecting, like obsidian, and as soft as ck silk threads. She had a cold and indifferent expression on her face. As if she was close yet distant. Even though she was here but she wasn''t within anyone''s reach.

    An Otherworldly beauty, which was true for Luis, as he was in another world indeed.

    ''Holy cr*p, she is so beautiful.''

    ''Is it normal for people in this world to be so beautiful?'' He felt that might be the case, given his handsome face.

    ''Is that my fiancee?''

    ''Did the Lady luck bless me? Is it my time for spring?''

    ''I''ve never seen a girl so beautiful, even in my previous life. She would put all those top celebrities to shame with just her looks.''

    Luis was freaking out inwardly. But on the outside, he had a poker face on. As usual, he was so calm, as if her beauty didn''t affect him in the slightest.

    ''I''m so d to have Performer (S) talent. Otherwise, I would have been embarrassed to death if they saw me freaking out.''

    Only now did Luis notice that beside her was another person. Dark auburn hair, a stern expression on his face, a light moustache, and a beard. It was a person he was a little familiar with.

    ''Isn''t that David Raven?''

    Raven family was also one of the strongest families in Tryston city, just like the Suarez family. Though the Suarez family still had more influencepared to the Raven family because of Ronald''s father. Henry Suarez, who was one of the heroes of humanity. David Raven and Ronald Suarez were good friends. But Luis had only met David a few times when he came to discuss guild matters with Ronald.

    ''Wait, if he is David Raven, that means?'' A sudden thought came to his mind, but he didn''t want to believe in it.

    "That''s Alicia Raven, your fiancee. How is she? Beautiful, right?" Lumine whispered near him. Trying to tease him or at least get a reaction out of him.

    Luis still maintained a poker face. But inwardly he was screaming.

    ''WHYYY?''

    ''What is going on?''

    ''What kind of plot is this?''

    ''Alicia Raven, of course, I know her. She is one of the heroines.''

    ''Why is a heroine here?''

    ''There was no plot like this.''

    ''No wait. In the game, there wasn''t supposed to be any Luis. Maybe as per the plot, Luis was considered missing, so the engagement was broken and all this happened before the start of the first game.'' That is the most probable reason.

    ''But now that I''m alive. The talk about the engagement will continue. I guess.''

    While all these thoughts were going on inside Luis'' mind. He gently weed them with a smile.

    Ronald warmly walked up to David with a smile, "Hello, David."

    "Hi, Ronald."

    Both of them bumped their fists and greeted each other with a grin on their faces.

    "Let''s have a drink tonight." Ronald seemed happy meeting his friend.

    "Okay stop, stop, both of you can discuss thatter." Lumine stopped them before they could run off to the wine cer.

    David''s attention turned to Lumine, who stopped them.

    "You look gorgeous, Lumine," David said with a teasing smile on his face as he nced at Ronald.

    "Thank you, David," Lumine replied sweetly.

    Ronald snorted and didn''t say anything.

    David then turned to look at Luis. "You have grown into a handsome young man."

    "Thank you, Uncle David," Luis replied with a polite smile. But inwardly, his narcissism was very active. ''Of course, I''m so handsome that I''ve begun to admire myself.''

    David smiled and immediately turned everyone''s attention to Alicia.

    "Meet my daughter."

    Alicia gave a small nod and walked forward.

    "I''m Alicia Raven. Nice to meet you." Her face wasn''t indifferent or cold, but she still maintained her poker face. It seems she was trying her best to be polite.

    Her less-than-friendly attitude didn''t bother Luis one bit, as he knew the reason behind it. So he still smiled politely and replied.

    "I''m Luis Suarez. It''s a pleasure to meet you." He gave a small bow and didn''t try to get too close to her.

    Alicia looked into his eyes and didn''t show much of a reaction.

    "Hello Uncle, Hello Auntie."

    As Alicia greeted them, Lumine warmly walked up to her.

    "You look gorgeous, dear."

    "Thank you, Auntie."

    Then everyone made their way to the dining table. The maids served the sumptuous meal prepared by the chefs. Many varieties of dishes were prepared for tonight''s dinner.

    As everyone started eating dinner and chatted happily. For some reason, Luis felt like he was being excluded.

    ''It''s only my imagination, right?''

    He nced to his right where Ronald and David were chatting together andughing out loud about some funny jokes which he couldn''t find the humor in.

    Then to his left, where Lumine was excitedly talking to Alicia, and her indifferent expression also softened a little. Luis was a little curious and wondered what kind of talk could make Alicia Raven soften her expression.

    She was, after all, famous for her cold attitude and indifference.

 Chapter 14: Garden Tour

    <h4>Chapter 14: Garden Tour</h4>

    As the dinner continued, there was a harmonious atmosphere in the dining hall. But none of them brought up the engagement. David felt something was off, but he didn''t say anything and went with the flow.

    After all, he was too familiar with his daughter''s personality. The chances that the engagement will be canceled are too high. Though Luis is handsome and seems to have a good personality. It''s difficult to enter into his daughter''s eyes.

    Maybe because of her mother, she might agree to the engagement. But he wanted her to be happy, so if she was dissatisfied with the engagement, he would cancel it.

    David knew his friendship with Ronald and Lumine. Their bond wasn''t so fragile that it would break over a canceled engagement. Maybe they might be a little angry but he can calm them down. It was, after all, for his daughter''s happiness.

    ''If only you were here Maria.'' Thinking of histe wife. He couldn''t help but feel saddened and lonely.

    After their first greeting, Luis and Alicia didn''t have much of an interaction. Others seemed to have also noticed this. But they also understood it was their first meeting. So they must be rather awkward.

    That was also why they didn''t rush into things. But things can''t be in a stalemate like this. ''I should create them an opportunity.''

    Lumine smiled and expertly shifted the conversation about flowers that she was having with Alicia.

    "Oh really, then you should also see our garden. You can find many beautiful flowers there. Some are extremely radiant under the moonlight."

    Without waiting for her to respond. Lumine immediately looked at Luis.

    "Luis, apany Alicia on a tour around the garden. Your father and Uncle David have some matters to discuss."

    Lumine gave a small nce to Ronald and David. With her eye gesture, they also understood and followed up.

    "Yeah, you young people should go take a stroll and chat. Let us adult handle boring matters." David said, looking at Alicia.

    Ronald also nodded, folding his hands.

    How could Luis and Alicia not understand what these adults were scheming? But they didn''t expose them and instead followed their wishes.

    Luis stood up from his seat and moved towards Alicia. He didn''t offer his hand or tried doing anything intimate. He politely smiled while maintaining some distance and said, "Let''s go, Miss Alicia. I''ll tour you around the garden."

    Alicia nodded with her usual indifferent expression and went with him. Watching the two of them leave, the three couldn''t help but sigh.

    "What do you think?" Ronald asked.

    "It''s difficult," Lumine said while shaking her head.

    "I thoughts so." Ronald sighed and agreed with her.

    "I pretty much expected Alicia''s reaction to be like this, but Luis'' reaction also seemed pretty indifferent. Does he not think my daughter is beautiful?" Davidined, thinking how Luis was unfazed by his daughter''s beauty.

    His thoughts were contrasting with each other. On the one hand, he was proud to have a son-inw who wasn''t fazed by his daughter''s beauty. But on the other hand, he was annoyed thinking about whether Luis didn''t find his daughter beautiful.

    Lumine and Ronald looked at each then, and then at David, who seemed pretty annoyed.

    "I don''t think you have to worry about him," Lumine said while rolling her eyes.

    "Yeah," Ronald also nodded, agreeing with Lumine.

    "Eh really?" David didn''t understand why they said so. Only they understood the reason.

    Of course, that guy has an S-grade Performer talent, and they were 90% sure his previous calmness was all an act.

    Thinking of this, Ronald found this situation quite funny. ''I wonder what Luis'' real thoughts are?''

    "Let''s leave the children to talk this out amongst themselves," Lumine stated, to which both Ronald and David agreed.

    "Anyway, you said you wanted to discuss that S-grade dungeon that your guild is going to raid." Ronald brought up the guild matters while having a dessert.

    "Yeah." David''s expression also turned serious as he ate the Ice cream.

    ***

    Coming out of the Mansion, Luis guided Alicia to tour around the garden. As stated earlier, the Suarez family estate has arge garden separated by many blocks. Hundreds of varieties of flowers, nts, and herbs can be found here. Though normal nts and the ones used as ingredients for potion making, food, alchemy, etc. are nted separately.

    The Suarez family has a few herbologists, alchemists, and potion makers who take care of the herbs and manage them inside the estate.

    For other parts of the garden, a few gardeners are appointed to tend the flowers and take care of the garden.

    Though it was night, the garden wasn''t dark because the lights were spread across the whole garden. Even if the lights weren''t on, under the moonlight and the crimson light from Velmaur, the garden would have been visible enough, as the flowers will look enchanted under the night''s beauty.

    Currently, only the two of them were in the garden. All the servants have vacated that ce to give them some private space.

    Luis was a very good guide. He introduced all the flowers they found on the way. Alicia wasn''t giving any reply and just listened to him.

    "This one is Candytuft." Luis pointed at the white flower near him. He smiled and continued. "They represent Indifference."

    There was a small smile on his face, which could easily be misunderstood as a smirk. As if he was hinting at something.

    ''You get me, right? About whom I am talking?''

    He felt a cold chill behind his back. So he decisively changed the focus to another flower.

    "These are Bluebell. They are a symbol of Humility." As expected, he received no response.

    Alicia nced at the flower, then continued walking towards the next one and didn''t show much of a reaction. He wasn''t bothered by it because he knew Alicia''s personality well.

    ''Alicia Raven, also known as the unfortunate heroine of The Holy Dragon Knight game.'' Thinking of her fate in the game story. Luis couldn''t help but sigh.

 Chapter 15: The White Rose

    <h4>Chapter 15: The White Rose</h4>

    Stopping in front of a purple flower, Luis showed a mncholic expression inadvertently, but the next moment, he hid that expression perfectly under a smile.

    Alicia seems to have caught the slight change in his expression. She curiously looked at the purple flower waiting for Luis to introduce it.

    "That''s Hyacinth." She continued looking into his eyes as if waiting for him to exin in flowernguage. "The purple hyacinth is a popr symbol of sorrow and regret."

    Hearing this, Alicia seems to understand the reason behind his change of expression. But then she was puzzled, thinking what kind of sorrow and regret could he have?

    Luis was thinking about his regrets in his past life. He regrets being a burden to his sister. Regretting that he died before he could repay her for all she had done for him.

    But he knew there was no point thinking about that anymore because now he could only live with those regrets for the rest of his life. ''But if someday I get the chance to meet her again. I want to thank her for everything.''

    Now that Luis suddenly stopped talking, the atmosphere turned a bit awkward because of the silence. ''I understand her reasons. But man, how long am I gonna talk alone?''

    This time, Luis tried initiating a conversation with her directly. ''She doesn''t seem as cold as before. Maybe she will reply.''

    "By the way, Miss Alicia." Seeing that he suddenly called out to her, Alicia was a little surprised. "What kind of flower do you like?"

    There was not much thought into it when he asked this question, but Alicia seems to have taken it seriously. After a long silence, she uttered.

    "... A white rose."

    Luis was surprised not because of her choice of flower but because she answered back. Suddenly he understood the feelings of parents who hear their child talk for the first time. Though the reference is odd, the feeling is simr.

    If not for his Performer talent, he would have cried tears of joy.

    "Why a white rose?" Luis decided to go along with the conversation. Because she seemed interested.

    After hesitating for a while, Alicia said.

    "... A friend of mine told me that a white rose is a symbol of sadness and sorrow. That''s why I feel very attached to it." She said in a t voice. But Luis seemed to have understood her feelings and what she wanted to express.

    He was dumbstruck because he didn''t expect the discussion about flowers to turn into something so extreme.

    Alicia shook her head and her expression immediately turned cold and indifferent like before.

    "Mr. Luis, I want you to give me a straight answer." Alicia''s extremely cold tone seems to have taken Luis by surprise. ''Here I thought we were getting close.''

    In her cold tone, she continued. "Are you not interested in this engagement?"

    Luis seems to have realized something as he asked with an innocent smile, "Why do you say so?"

    Alicia continued looking at him with her cold and indifferent expression. "Because the previous engagement was postponed, and Mr. Luis doesn''t seem to have any interest in me. I have also heard of a rumour that Mr. Luis left his home because he is against the engagement, but I don''t know if it is true."

    Luis nodded his head with an ''as expected'' expression on his face. He smiled slightly and said. "Who says I''m against the engagement?"

    His words caught her by surprise, but she continued listening. "I do have an interest in you. But I don''t like the idea of being too chummy with my fiancee whom I''ve never met in my whole life. So I want to get to know you first."

    Alicia seems to have understood his reasoning and agreed with his idea. She also preferred it this way. Suddenly she seems to have a favorable opinion of him. But there was another question that troubled her.

    "So, why did you cancel the previous appointment?" If there was no important matter, then there must be no reason to cancel such an important appointment.

    Luis thought for a moment as he looked into her eyes, who were waiting for his answer. He knows if he decides to tell the truth or lie. His answer might change both of their fates.

    "I was attacked by assassins."

    But so what? His fate was already going in an unknown direction. Now maybe he could save her from her unfortunate ending.

    Hearing Luis'' answer. Alicia gave the strongest reaction since her arrival.

    "Tell me everything." Her voice cracked, and her fingers trembled a little when she asked this.

    Luis noticed everything, and he also knew the reason behind her strong reaction, but he ignored it for the time being and decided to answer her question.

    He pointed at the sitting area near the artificial pond, which was at the center of the garden.

    "Let''s sit there. It will take some time."

    Alicia didn''t mind and sat there. Her entire focus was on Luis.

    "Well, I was surprised to hear about the sudden engagement."

    Luis continued telling her all about his experience four days ago. How he went to Lurandal city to how he was cornered and attacked by Assassin.

    His voice was in as if he had nothing to do with the experience. But Alicia felt it. She felt his despair, his anxiety, his pain.

    Her cold and indifferent expression was already broken long ago as she silently listened to his story.

    "I was saved from the river and drank a high-grade elixir, but the pain and exhaustion were too much for me. So I went unconscious for three days."

    "..."

    "Hence, the appointment was postponed," Luis answered and gave her a small smile.

    No matter how good of a Performer Talent he had. At that moment, Alicia seemed to have seen through that fake smile of his as her heart trembled.

    She clutched her skirt and asked.

    "Did they find out who was behind this?" The ''they'' mentioned here were Luis'' parents. Alicia thought that with the Suarez family''s influence, they might have already found the culprit.

 Chapter 16: The Ice Phoenix - Maria Raven

    <h4>Chapter 16: The Ice Phoenix - Maria Raven</h4>

    Luis shook his head and replied, "Not yet. My father has yet to find any lead. But I do have some clues, so I''ll take part in the investigation soon."

    "What clues?" Alicia asked.

    If anyone else saw Alicia''s change, they might be pretty surprised, but Luis found her reaction pretty normal.

    Luis looked at the pond thoughtfully and said. "That Assassin had a dragon tattoo on his neck."

    As soon as the dragon tattoo was mentioned, Alicia''s eyes widened in shock. Her lips trembled and her breathing became unstable.

    "Are you sure it was a dragon tattoo?" Alicia asked again while trying to calm the waves inside her heart.

    Luis looked into her eyes and said while nodding. "I''m certain."

    Saying that, he turned his attention to the pond. He knew why she reacted like that at the mention of the dragon tattoo.

    ''Because it was the same organization that killed her mother.''

    Getting her answer, Alicia didn''t know what to say. Her previous cold attitude and indifference were long gone.

    Looking at Luis, who turned his attention to the pond again. Alicia took deep breaths, trying topose herself.

    She wanted to say something but hesitated.

    Since her mother''s death, Alicia has always been keen on not showing weakness in front of anyone. She maintained a chilly demeanour around everyone, as she was unsure who would betray her. She has yet to find her mother''s killer. She was concerned that her enemies could be one of those people who were trying to get close to her. At one point in time, she even suspected the Suarez family was behind it. But there was no reason to doubt them. Still, she didn''t let down her guard.

    Now she was going to take that risk. Because even after searching for so long she couldn''t find anything but now that she finally got a lead, so how could she hesitate?

    In the end, she finally requested, "Is it alright if I take part in your investigation?"

    Luis looked at her, surprised, because he didn''t expect her to make this choice so fast. ''It seems her desire for revenge burns far stronger than I expected.''

    But he wasn''t going to agree just like that. "Why?"

    It was a simple word, but it was also the most heavy question for Alicia at that moment.

    Why does she want to help?

    Why is she so concerned about his affairs when their engagement isn''t even official?

    With her personality, why would she care about him who is almost a stranger?

    Alicia understood that what she was doing was out of her character. But even so.

    "... Will you listen to a story?"

    She can''t back down now.

    ***

    Luis nced at her and gestured for her to go on.

    Alicia took a deep breath, remembering that incident still made her tremble. That was the day she lost her mother.

    "Do you know about my mother?"

    Of course, he knew. Maria Raven, the wife of David Raven and thedy of the Raven family. A Peak Overlord (S) rank human only a step away from Transcendent (SS). She was also known as the Ice Phoenix. A Legendary human whose feats and achievements are famous all around the world. Even David, Ronald, and Lumine, who are also in Overlord rank (S) are far weaker than what Maria used to be. She was an extraordinary genius of her generation. s, she is no longer here.

    "Yes, Maria Raven, the Legendary Ice Phoenix," Luis stated admirably. Although in his previous life, she was just a game character. But from Luis'' memories, she was like a legend for him to admire.

    Alicia was stunned when Luis mentioned her mother''s name with her title. A little smile formed on her face.

    "Yes, but do you know how such a strong person is no longer here with us?"

    Luis wanted to say something, but he stopped and finally uttered a single word, "No."

    "My mother was a strong and kind person. I loved her a lot. Though she was mostly busy, she always found time to spend with me. Whenever I heard of her achievements, I was proud to be her daughter." Remembering her mother, a smile formed on Alicia''s face.

    Seeing her smile, Luis felt her strong feelings towards her mother.

    "I always wanted to be like my mother. She was the coolest person for me. More than my father, more than anyone else." Alicia''s face turned a little sad as she continued.

    "My mother went on an expedition to an S-rank dungeon with our guild members. But the S-rank gate had an SS-rank monster as the final boss. While fighting the SS rank boss monster, my mother got injured in the process of saving the guild members." Although this achievement was huge, Alicia''s expression was sad.

    "She used a forbidden technique and went beyond her limits, breaking through Transcendent (SS) rank for a short time, and defeated the monster. The short power-up was huge, but the cost was her severely damaged mana core." Alicia said with a mncholic expression on her face.

    She took a breath and continued. "And that was how the legend of the Ice Phoenix came to an end."

    She then looked into the night sky and uttered. "The Ice Phoenix then became a bird without wings."

    "She lost her ability to fight. She received a severe bacsh from mana, which weakened her body. My father tried everything but couldn''t find a cure."

    "But, even after all that, she was still my coolest mother. I was determined to be strong and find a way to cure her."

    Suddenly Luis felt the temperature around him cool down a bit as the atmosphere grew heavy.

    "It was then it happened." Alicia''s voice was full of sadness and grief.

    "That evening, my father was summoned to the Imperial city. To have an audience with the king regarding a new S-rank dungeon."

    "My mother and I were inside our mansion when those assassins attacked. All the guards were King (A) rank and below. But, They were all ruthlessly murdered."

    ----------------

    A.N. - Oh right if this week''s Power stones reaches 100. I''ll upload a bonus chapter.

 Chapter 17: Death of a Legend.

    <h4>Chapter 17: Death of a Legend.</h4>

    "My mother hid me in a small secretpartment big enough for one person to hide."

    "..."

    "I was na?ve back then. I followed whatever my mother asked me to do."

    "Hiding inside, I saw those men appear as my mother faced them."

    "She fought against them. But she was weakened, and they were strong. Finally, she was overwhelmed, and a sword pierced her heart." Tears starteding out of her eyes as she recalled everything.

    *Sniff*

    "Without caring about anything. I ran out of the hiding ce towards my mother. I cried a lot as I held her dead body in my arms." Alicia raised both her arms as if she still remembers that feeling and continued while tears fell from her eyes. "I thought everything was an Illusion but when I held her lifeless body, I lost all my senses and just wanted to kill them and take revenge."

    "I thought even if I die. I will die fighting."

    "I was prepared to end my life there. But you know what they did." She looked at Luis and asked aggrievedly.

    "They left me alive." She was barely catching her breath as she said.

    "They let me live as the only survivor of that incident." She shouted, showing her anguish.

    "Since then, I have tried everything possible to search for the culprit behind it."

    "All these years I found no clue." Then she looked at Luis and said.

    "But all those assassins had one thing inmon."

    Luis knew, but he waited for her to say it.

    "They all had the dragon tattoos exposed in different parts of their bodies."

    As she finished her story, tears kept falling down her eyes. Luis just gave her a handkerchief and silently sat there, letting her calm down.

    A few minutester, when Alicia calmed down, she asked.

    "Now I finally got a lead. That''s why I want to help in your investigation and find the culprit."

    "I see." It was a short reply from Luis, which didn''t answer whether he epted her proposal or not.

    Alicia looked at him with a small frown and asked.

    "... You don''t think it''s right for me to take revenge?"

    Luis shook his head and said. "Of course not."

    "Who am I to judge that? I also experienced something simr and, of course, I want revenge."

    "Then.." Hearing Luis'' words, Alicia looked at him in anticipation.

    "But I want to ask you something first."

    "Ask something?" Alicia frowned and looked at him in confusion wondering, what he wants to ask now.

    Luis took a deep breath and looked at Alicia while thinking of her fate as per the game''s story.

    Alicia Raven was the most beautiful heroine of the Holy Dragon Knight game. But she was also the most unfortunate one. In Alicia''s route, no matter the choices Protagonist makes, there will be no happy ending for her.

    (Note:- Alicia''s happy ending doesn''t mean the game''s happy ending. It''s the ending of Alicia Raven''s conquest route.)

    Either she dies ormits suicide because she couldn''t take revenge for her mother and lost all hope or the protagonist makes her choose between friendship and revenge. That counts as thepletion of her route, but in either case, Alicia wasn''t happy. Because she was forced to choose between friendship and her revenge.

    As for the option of taking revenge. It was not possible. Because Alicia''s enemy is an important part of the main game story and for the development of the protagonist. So the protagonist won''t kill him if he wants to get stronger. But that is not the case for Luis, since he doesn''t care.

    "What do you want to do after you aplish your revenge?"

    This question was unexpected for Alicia.

    "What do you mean?"

    Luis took a deep look at her and said, "Since your mother''s death, you have been living for the sake of revenge."

    Alicia didn''t say anything and waited for him to continue since she agreed with his words and didn''t understand what he wanted to say.

    "For all these years, you have been searching for your enemies in your desire for revenge."

    "Don''t you also want revenge for what happened to you?" She asked, looking into his eyes.

    "Of course I want revenge." He replied without hesitation.

    "So-" she wanted to say something but was cut off.

    "But I don''t want to lose myself in the process of revenge."

    "..."

    "In the process of searching for your mother''s enemies, you stopped living the life which your mother lost her life to protect."

    "I agree with your desire for revenge. But this revenge should just be a part of your life, not your life''s goal. Because once youplete your revenge, you will be left with nothing."

    "I don''t want my life to end up like that," Luis said as he looked at Alicia. His words struck her deeply.

    Seeing that Alicia was silent and thinking his words seriously, Luis suddenly asked with a small smile.

    "Miss Alicia, didn''t you say you find yourself very attached to a white rose?"

    Alicia didn''t understand why he asked this, but she replied with a nod.

    "Then do you know? The white rose is not just a symbol of sadness and sorrow. It is also a ssic symbol of beauty and purity, often used to represent love and new beginnings."

    Alicia didn''t know what to say at this moment. So she asked in a low voice. "Then what do you want me to do?"

    He gently got close to her and ced his hand on her cheek. She didn''t resist his actions, but her body stiffened a bit. Luis gave a charming smile and, while wiping her tears, he said. "I also think you are simr to a white rose."

    Alicia looked into his deep gray eyes, which were directly looking at her affectionately. He continued speaking in a gentle voice.

    "I don''t want you to sumb to sadness and sorrow. I want you to have a new beginning in your life and your desire for revenge to be just a part of your life. I want you to live your life to the fullest from now on. Not just make revenge your life''s goal. Maybe even fall in love. I''ll be happy to be with you, who are just as pure and beautiful as a white rose."

    --------------------

    A.N. - Was that a confession? Tell me guys how will Alicia react?

    1) She ps him and they treat it like nothing happened.

    2) She will throw him in the pond.

    3) She will hug him and ept.

    4) She will cancel the engagement.

    5) None of the above.

 Chapter 18: Taking advantage

    <h4>Chapter 18: Taking advantage</h4>

    "I don''t want you to sumb to sadness and sorrow. I want you to have a new beginning in your life and your desire for revenge to be just a part of your life. I want you to live your life to the fullest from now on. Not just make revenge your life''s goal. Maybe even fall in love. I''ll be happy to be with you, who are just as pure and beautiful as a white rose."

    His words were sincere and full of affection, which broke all her defenses as she hugged him tightly and wailed, letting out her emotions.

    *Sniff*

    *Sniff*

    "I.. *Sniff* miss her. I was so afraid. *Sniff*"

    Alicia continued crying as Luis patted her back, gentlyforting her.

    ***

    It took a few minutes for her to calm down. By the time she stopped crying, her eyes were all puffy red. Her face was flushed red in embarrassment at what she had done just now.

    Trying to recover her dignity a bit. She coughed and said.

    "Then I presume you will let me take part in the investigation."

    "Yes." Luis nodded.

    "I am grateful," Alicia said politely.

    Seeing her trying to act all serious, Luis couldn''t help but give a smallugh and said teasingly.

    "Hehe, I didn''t expect the most beautiful and cold girl to turn out to be a crybaby."

    Alicia''s face flushed red in embarrassment. She snorted and said.

    "Didn''t you just propose to me a moment ago? How could you call me cold?"

    Luis thought back on his words, and indeed, it was a type of proposal. Though he said that in the heat of the moment. But he had no intention of taking back his words.

    Seeing him sitting there silently. Alicia was a little annoyed.

    "Don''t tell me it was all a lie. You even took advantage of me and hugged me."

    "What? Who took advantage of you?." Luis tried denying her usation.

    But she didn''t stop. "I''ll tell my father. I''m sure Uncle and Aunty will do me justice." She tried to act pitifully.

    Luis looked at her nkly as he saw the teasing expression on her face.

    "Stop teasing me."

    Seeing that she was caught. She smiled mischievously. She was a little disappointed as she didn''t get to see a flustered expression on his face. "Fine."

    Luis smiled slightly and asked. "That means you agree with the engagement."

    Alicia''s face turned red again as she looked down and nodded.

    Luis gave a big smile and offered her his hand. "Shall we go back to the mansion?"

    Alicia epted his hand as they started walking towards the mansion.

    Seeing Luis'' grinning face, Alicia was a little annoyed.

    "I-I only agreed to the engagement. I didn''t agree with your proposal yet. You understand?"

    "Yes, yes," Luis replied perfunctorily.

    ''It''s the same thing, either way,'' he thought, though he had no intention of mentioning it.

    Seeing her smile, thinking that she had got a win over him, Luis had only one thought in mind: ''What is this cute creature?''

    At that moment, Luis felt like spending his whole life with this sweet and mischievous girl beside him would not be a bad idea.

    "By the way,"

    Luis turned to Alicia, seeing that she wanted to say something.

    "Don''t everpare me to Candytuft." She said with a stern expression.

    "Sure," Luis nodded his head sheepishly.

    ''I''m d that we had this talk. If not, I don''t think I could ever get to see this side of her.''

    ***

    Inside the Mansion, the talk between Ronald and David was already over and they were now waiting for Luis and Alicia toe back.

    "What do you think is taking them so long?" Ronald asked while drinking his third cup of Mana tea.

    "It''s odd," David murmured.

    "What''s odd?" Lumine asked.

    David looked up at the two of them and said, "There''s no way Alicia is going to talk much, as she didn''t seem interested in Luis, so they should havee by now."

    "Yeah, I also think it will be quite awkward for them." Ronald agreed with him.

    "I don''t think so." Hearing Lumine''s words, they were surprised.

    "Why?" they both asked simultaneously.

    "Because Luis is my son, and he is very kind, I''m sure he will melt Alicia''s heart," Lumine exined with a smile of a doting mother.

    Ronald and David looked at each other and sighed.

    Lumine was a bit annoyed. "You don''t believe me?"

    "Yeah, yeah, we believe you," Ronald said perfunctorily.

    Shaking his head, David said, "There''s no way my Alicia would-"

    His words stopped with his mouth agape. He rubbed his eyes to check if he was seeing an illusion.

    Seeing his unusual reaction, Lumine and Ronald also turned in the direction where David''s eyes were looking.

    Their eyes also widen in surprise. At the entrance of the mansion, they saw Luis and Aliciaing back together.

    Luis was holding Alicia''s hand, but more than that, the cold expression on Alicia''s face was nowhere to be seen. She was smiling.

    ''What the hell happened?'' They all had the same doubts in their mind.

    "Hehe, as expected of my son. He fully inherited my genes." Ronald smirked proudly.

    Lumine looked at Ronald and wondered, what if Luis inherited Ronald''s narcissism too?

    ''But still, although I said that everything will be fine. I didn''t expect Luis to melt her heart so fast.'' Seeing Alicia''s smile, she also felt happy.

    After Maria''s death, she had seen how devastated Alicia was when she went to visit her. It was as if Alicia had built up a protective wall around her to not let anyone approach her. But that wall also worked as a prison for her.

    Lumine wanted to help her, but she had no idea what to do. Years went by and Alicia also became cold and distant from everyone.

    That was also the reason why she was worried thinking about their engagement. It was, after all, a promise she made to Maria.

    But seeing her genuine smile now, she couldn''t express how happy she was. ''Maria, I wish you were here.''

    "H-How?" David looked at his daughter as if he was seeing her for the first time.

    After her mother''s death, this was the first time he saw her smiling. His daughter, whom he tried everything to make her smile, was now smiling.

    His eyes became moist, but he held himself back from jumping in excitement.

    Luis and Alicia didn''t seem to notice the changes in their parent''s faces.

    ----------------------

    A.N. - Some people might argue about Alicia''s situation. But you should know a human heart is unpredictable. Sometimes someone''s casual words or even the smallest of actions may affect the whole life of another person.

    In her case, thefort Luis gave was something she needed most. If the same words came out of another person''s mouth it wouldn''t have such an effect and she wouldn''t have listened. It was only possible because Luis himself experienced the assassination attempt which made her listen to his words seriously.

    Well, you can discuss more in our Discord:-

    https://discord.gg/FBSufmXzN5

    Oh right if this week''s Power stones reaches 100. I''ll upload a bonus chapter.

 Chapter 19: David’s Request.

    <h4>Chapter 19: David''s Request.</h4>

    Lumine asked with a smile as she walked up to Alicia. "So, how was the tour?"

    "It was good," Alicia replied calmly, but there was a small smile on her face.

    Lumine raised her brows as she thought, ''What kind of magic did that brat used to make her change like this?''

    Giving a nce at Luis, she asked, "Did Luis trouble you?"

    Following her eyes, Alicia looked at Luis. He was also looking back at her. She gave him a teasing smirk.

    Luis looked at her smirk and thought if they weren''t in front of their parents. He would have taught her a lesson for teasing him. ''But still, this mischievous girl is really cute.''

    Alicia turned back to Lumine and said. "No, he didn''t trouble me. He was a good guide."

    Lumine raised her brow. Their small interaction didn''t miss her eyes. ''Howe they be so close in such a short time?''

    Luis walked close to David while holding Alicia''s soft and white hand.

    "Uncle David, I agree with the engagement."

    His words made everyone overjoyed, but they waited for Alicia''s decision. Alicia looked up at all of them. Her face returned to cold and indifferent, but there was still a small rosy blush on her face.

    "I agree."

    Her two simple words made everyone overjoyed and the family dinner became more joyous.

    "Hahaha, David, it seems we are going to be inws," Ronald said with heartyughter.

    "Yeah," David smiled back, but his eyes were still moist.

    Lumine was also happy as she sped Alicia''s hand and walked to the sofa where they could chat some more.

    David also went near them. As he chatted with his daughter.

    Ronald came over, patted Luis'' shoulder and gave him a thumbs up.

    "Even at handling girls, you have inherited my talent."

    Luis smiled wryly and wondered whether Ronald wasn''t worried that Lumine might have heard him.

    He called for a maid and asked her to bring dessert for him and Alicia.

    Soon after, as Luis was eating his ice cream, he heard David call out to him.

    "Luis,"

    "Yes, Uncle David."

    "I want to talk to you alone."

    "Okay?" Luis nodded his head and left the cup on the table near him as he followed David outside the mansion.

    "What does Uncle David want to talk about?" Luis asked, confused.

    After a long silence, David asked."... What did you do to Alicia?"

    This question surprised Luis, and he became a little nervous. ''Don''t tell me she told him for real that I took advantage of her? But it was she who hugged me first.'' Luis thought he couldn''t be med for that.

    ''I just enjoyed the touch of her soft body for a few minutes. Everything was her initiative. It''s not my fault.''

    ''Yeah, I was just a gentleman who gave his shoulder and chest to support a crying girl.'' Suddenly, he felt that he was very righteous.

    On the outside, Luis'' Performer talent was in effect as he listened to David seriously.

    "For all these years I tried everything I could to make Alicia smile. But everything ended up in naught. I have given up hope, thinking she would never smile like that for the rest of her life."

    "But today I got to see her smile again. Just like how she used to years back." David sped Luis'' hands and said, "Thank you, Luis."

    Luis smiled and said, "No problem Uncle, she is my fiancee after all."

    David smiled and said, "Yeah, you need to be a responsible man and take care of her otherwise get ready to face my fist."

    "Haha," Luis gave a nervousugh. Then his eyes suddenly changed and now they were brightened with determination. "Don''t worry, Uncle. I''ll take care of her. I promise."

    David was satisfied with Luis'' words. Soon, they both made their way back to the mansion.

    ***

    "Let''s find a time to announce their engagement officiallyter," Ronald said, to which everyone agreed.

    "Alicia, your things will be prepared in the room on the second floor," Lumine said suddenly, to which Alicia nodded just like the obedient daughter-inw she was.

    "Huh?" Luis let out a confused sound. "She is staying here?"

    "Oh, we didn''t tell you?" Lumine had an expression that said shepletely forgot. But Luis knew she did it on purpose.

    Seeing Luis'' nk look, Lumine pouted and said, "Yeah, she will be staying with us for some time."

    She then gave him a mischievous look. "What? Are you getting excited to live under the same roof with your fiancee? Hehe."

    Luispletely ignored her and looked at David, asking for an exnation.

    "I will be leading an S-rank dungeon exploration with my guild. So I will be away for a month or two." Hearing this, Luis wasn''t surprised because there are lots of vast dungeons with a lot of resources inside them. But he still didn''t understand why would Alicia be staying with them.

    Understanding Luis'' doubts, David continued. "As both you and Alicia will be joining the academy 3 monthster. It is the prime time to prepare. I have heard from your parents that you have Naturally Awakened. Also, your training will start tomorrow."

    Luis nodded his head and gestured for him to continue.

    "So, I asked Lumine to train Alicia together with you. Also, it''s best to leave Alicia''s training in Lumine''s hands rather than some outsider''s."

    Luis nodded his head in understanding. His mother was an Overlord (S) rank, awakened. One of the powerhouses of this country. Her experiences and training would be very beneficial for Alicia and him.

    "If it weren''t for the dungeon, I would have trained her personally." David sighed.

    "Is it necessary for you to go?" Luis asked, seeing his unwillingness.

    "It is a request from the king for me to manage it personally." Sighing, he continued. "I have to go."

    Luis'' eyes became sharp for a moment at the mention of the king. But no one seemed to have noticed that.

    ----------------------

    Join our discord:-

    https://discord.gg/FBSufmXzN5

 Chapter 20: Mana Coating

    <h4>Chapter 20: Mana Coating</h4>

    A new day in the city of Tryston. Today, in the estate of the Suarez family, the servants and maids seemed to be in a good mood. After all, the engagement between their young master and the youngdy of the Raven family became official.

    As mentioned before, the Suarez family has two training grounds, One for the guards and servants. Another for the family members.

    Today is the day Luis and Alicia''s training under Lumine will begin. Walking past the guards and getting greeted by many servants, Luis finally arrived at the private training grounds. He found Lumine and Alicia already waiting for him.

    "You guys arrived early," He said, getting closer to them.

    "It''s you who iste." Lumine snorted in dissatisfaction. "Since when did you start taking so long to get ready?"

    Luis was a little embarrassed. How could he say he wasn''t used to his handsomeness? So, he lost track of time admiring himself.

    Seeing him standing there awkwardly. Lumine snorted and said, "Whatever, let''s begin."

    "But before we start, Alicia." She suddenly looked at Alicia.

    "Yes?" Alicia asked.

    "Can you tell me your attribute?" Lumine asked.

    Alicia nodded and activated her Mana. Soon, the surrounding temperature became a little colder and an ice shard formed in the air.

    "I-Ice." Lumine was surprised and then became happy. Ice attribute is also one of the rarest attributes, just like lightning. But that wasn''t the reason for her happiness. "You have the same attribute as Maria."

    Alicia nodded gently.

    "Hehe, this will be interesting. I am going to be teaching a pair of geniuses." Lumine became a little smug about something and expectant for the future.

    Alicia nced at Luis, wondering what element he has.

    "Okay, first show me how much control you have over Mana."

    Both of them did as they were told and started channeling mana.

    "Hmm, It''s good enough. Well, we can get to the next step then." To be honest, Lumine was a little shocked looking at the little monsters in front of her. But she wasn''t here to praise them.

    "The first thing I am going to teach you is Mana coating." Both Alicia and Luis listened to her seriously.

    "For yourbat, no matter the type of weapon you use. Mana coating is the basic thing you must know."

    "Mana coating just as the name suggests is coating your mana around your body or weapon to increase the destructiveness." Although the meaning is simple, the process was long and tiring.

    "Your mana needs to be stable."

    "Luis, you are putting more mana than required."

    "That''s right, Alicia, you got it."

    "Try changing the coating you did in some other forms."

    "Try maintaining your form."

    "Your mana is not enough to maintain a form for long."

    ...

    ...

    After hours of intense training, both Alicia and Luisy on the ground panting heavily for breaths. They werepletely dried off mana. Their cores were empty.

    "Drink this Mana potion and recover fast. We will repeat the training." Lumine said with a smile.

    At that moment, Luis felt like his mom had a hidden sadist personality.

    After drinking the potion and recovering their mana, they started again. This cycle continued until it was dinner time.

    "Okay, that''s enough for today. Good work, guys." Lumine walked off with a smile on her face, leaving Luis and Alicia lying on the ground.

    "Alicia..." Luis called her, looking at the dark sky.

    "..." Alicia didn''t reply.

    "You alive?"

    "... Barely," Alicia replied in a low voice.

    "Did your rank increase?" Luis asked.

    "Yeah, you too?"

    "Yeah."

    Looking at the pile of used mana potion bottles, Luis felt the world of the rich was amazing. ''It seems our growth will be faster than I expected.''

    After some time, Luis recovered enough to stand up. He also helped Alicia walk her to her room.

    "See you at dinner," Luis said, to which Alicia replied with a wave of her hand. She was too exhausted to reply. She just wanted to have a good shower now.

    Returning to his room. Luis hopped in the shower and cooled his mind while cleaning his exhausted body.

    ***

    At the dinner table, four people could be seen eating dinner peacefully. "So, how was the training?"

    "They have a lot to learn," Lumine replied.

    Ronald looked into her eyes and decided to ask her the truthter. "I see," he nodded, then looked at the two of them. "You guys will need to put in a lot of effort."

    Luis and Alicia had grim expressions on their faces, but they nodded, nheless.

    Suddenly Luis changed the topic and asked, "Dad, did you find anything about them?"

    Luis'' sudden question caught him off-guard. Ronald looked at Luis, then gave a nce at Alicia.

    "I have told her."

    Ronald nodded his head and said, a little frustrated, "Not yet. We couldn''t find any traces."

    "We did a thorough investigation of our enemies and found many of their secrets. But no trace of anything rted to your incident."

    Alicia''s expression also became a little disappointed. That was the same result she got after all the efforts she put in searching them over these years.

    Luis lightly patted her head and said, "Dad, let me do the investigation."

    Ronald and Lumine, who were looking at their intimate actions, became stunned. "You want to search for them yourself?"

    Luis sighed and exined, "Dad, I need to learn a lot of things. I can''t always be under your or Mom''s protection. I want to take my revenge myself. So let us do the investigation."

    Taking revenge himself doesn''t mean he is going to kill them himself. He will only lead the team.

    "Us? Is Alicia also taking part in this?" Lumine asked.

    Luis nodded and said, "They are from the same organization that killed Alicia''s mom."

    "What?" Lumine stood up from her seat at this sudden revtion. She looked at Alicia to confirm again, "Is this true?"

    Seeing Alicia nod, Lumine''s breathing became intense. She was furious. The same organization that killed her best friend now tried to kill her son, too. How can she retain her calmness?

 Chapter 21: Skill Book

    <h4>Chapter 21: Skill Book</h4>

    "So we want to do this ourselves," Luis said as he gave a nce to Alicia.

    She nodded and said, "Uncle, Aunt, I have been living for the sake of revenge until now. After years of fruitless search, I finally got a chance, so please let me take part in this investigation."

    Seeing that, they still didn''t agree. Luis used another move. His Performer talent came into effect and he said, "Please, Dad. Please, Mom."

    His acting skills were top-notch. He looked almost on the verge of tears. His pitiful expression could make anyone give in.

    "Ugh, stop that." Ronald sighed and said, "If I didn''t know better, I would have been fooled."

    Luis smirked and prompted him, "You agree, right?"

    "Fine," Ronald eventually gave in.

    Lumine looked at her son and wondered, ''How versatile is his Performer (S) talent?''

    "Jack," Ronald called out.

    "Yes, master." A man with blue hair and a small scar near his right eye appeared.

    "Let the team follow their orders in this investigation. But remember, their safetyes first." Ronald would rest assured keeping Jack by Luis'' side.

    He then looked at Luis and said, "You can do what you want. But remember, you can always ask for my help."

    Ronald was also a little interested in seeing how the kids will handle things on their own.

    Lumine thought of something and said, "In that case, I should up the intensity of their training."

    Luis and Alicia looked at Lumine in horror. With the short conversation, the dinner came to an end.

    ***

    Before Luis could return to his room, Ronald stopped him.

    "Luis,e with me for a moment." With those words, Ronald started walking away.

    Luis wondered what was up with him, so he followed. Soon he arrived at his father''s study.

    "Come in."

    Following Ronald''s words, Luis went after him. Entering the study, Luis was hit by the smell of roasted coffee beans. ''Just how much coffee does he drink?'' He wondered.

    "What is it, Dad?" Luis asked.

    But Ronald didn''t reply to him, instead, he took out a box from the drawer.

    ''Another mysterious box. Dad sure likes this kind of stuff.'' Luis knew that Ronald was going to give him something. So he waited.

    Ronald looked at Luis and said. "After I saw your talents. I searched for items or artifacts that can be helpful to you."

    He then pointed at the box and said, "This is what I found."

    ''As expected.'' Luis'' eyes brightened as he looked at the box with interest.

    Opening the box, Ronald took out a white book. "This is a skillbook I obtained from an A-rank dungeon. It''s called Perception."

    Luis looked at the skillbook with interest. Ronald continued.

    "This is a passive and a growth-type skill. That means its effects will improve as you be stronger."

    Luis was looking at the skillbook like a hungry shark.

    "This skill will be verypatible with your Sharp Shooter and other talents," Ronald expressed his thoughts. To which Luis agreed wholeheartedly.

    Yes, this will be very useful for him. Because he knew the effects of this skill. This skill was something the protagonist from the second sequel can get once he helps Luis'' cousin, who will soon be adopted by his parents.

    Shaking those thoughts out of his head, he asked, "Can I use it now?"

    "Of course, go ahead. You know what to do, right?" Ronald asked, just in case.

    "Yeah, I just need to channel my mana, right?" Luis said while looking at the white book with interest.

    "Yeah," Ronald nodded, and without wasting any time, Luis channeled his mana.

    As soon as Luis'' Mana touched the book''s surface. The book shone with white light as it disintegrated into thin air.

    Luis felt a slight pain in his eyes, which subsided almost instantly.

    Rubbing his eyes when he opened them again. He felt like his vision improved.

    "Your rank is still low, so the effect isn''t much," Luis nodded his head at Ronald''s words. He knew all too well how useful this skill was, especially for him. So he wasn''t disappointed in the least.

    "It''s great Dad, thanks."

    Ronald gave a soft smile, looking at his son''s bright smile. He was happy that Luis liked it. "Don''t be too happy yet. I have another thing prepared for you."

    Hearing this, Luis looked at his dad and wondered, how can his dad be so cool?

    Ronald took out a ck book this time.

    "Another skillbook." Luis'' eyes were that of a predator. But Ronald threw cold water on his excitement. "It''s not a skillbook."

    Luis was a little disappointed, but immediately calmed down. It''s something that his dad brought for him. Surely it will be something good. As he curiously looked at the ck book, he got a mysterious feeling from it. ''What is this feeling?'' He felt some sort of familiarity with this book.

    Ronald''s words broke him out of his thoughts. "This is a treasure that your grandfather got from an SS-grade dungeon in the past."

    Hearing this, Luis'' eyes widen in disbelief. ''It seems this thing is something far more valuable than a skillbook.''

    Seeing the change in Luis'' expression, Ronald continued. "It was kept inside the family treasury for decades."

    "What is this book, Dad?" Luis couldn''t shake off this feeling of familiarity from this book.

    "It is called the Ancient Magic Book of a Sage." Hearing the name of this book, Luis became even more interested. "But we don''t know what''s inside it. The title is the only thing we got from your grandfather''s item-appraisal skill."

    "Why?" Luis asked.

    "Because all these years, no one in the family had the talent required to understand what''s written in this book. That''s why it was kept inside the treasury for years." Ronald said with a little disappointment in his tone.

    Luis nodded his head in understanding. ''It was a treasure from an SS-grade dungeon. There''s no way it would be allowed in the hands of an outsider. So they waited, hoping someone from the future generations will have the talent to understand this book.''

    Now that Luis had a Sorcerer (S) talent, Ronald wondered if his son might be the one.

 Chapter 22: Who is the Mastermind?

    <h4>Chapter 22: Who is the Mastermind?</h4>

    "I understand Dad." with those words, he took the book from Ronald''s hands and looked through it.

    Ronald''s palms were a little sweaty. As he waited for Luis to go through the book. He saw the change in Luis'' expression. From normal to shocked and then to disbelief. Luis closed the book and uttered, "I can understand it, Dad."

    "Really?"

    "Yeah."

    "... What''s in it?"

    "Ancient Magic."

    Ronald immediately became happy and asked, "Can you learn it?"

    "Yes,"

    "Haha, good, good. You inherited my genes very well." Ronald said whileughing out loud.

    Luis was a little dissatisfied. "But Dad, you didn''t have the talent to read it either, right?"

    Ronald gave an awkwardugh and said, "Yeah, but I never said anything about talent. It''s the genes I''m talking about."

    Luis looked at his father speechlessly.

    "Anyway, go back to your room now. Study it well from that book. Also, remember to show me what you learnedter, and try it first under my watch." Ronald won''t let Luis practice some dangerous magic alone. So he asked him to learn it for now and use it under his watch so he can rest assured.

    Who knows what kind of magic is in there? If there''s some forbidden magic that is dangerous for the user, Ronald will stop him.

    Luis smiled warmly and said, "Okay, good night, Dad."

    "Yeah, good night." Ronald was left alone in the study wondering what kind of existence his son will be in the future.

    ***

    After Luis returned to his room, he didn''t sleep and started reading the book he got from his father. The more he read, the more shocked his expression was. Sweat formed on his forehead and his hands trembled in excitement.

    He wondered, ''Just what kind of existence was this, Sage?''

    The book contained a variety of ancient magic spells. From different attributes to attribute less magic. "It seems my Sorceror Talent will shine as I master these spells."

    But what Luis was most interested in was the Illusion magic spells contained inside this book.

    ''I can''t believe something like this exists.''

    ''But with the amount of mana I currently possess. There is no way I can use these spells.''

    He saw some spells for his Lightning and Space attribute, which made him interested. ''Hmm, so once I master my element to a certain extent, I won''t need any spells and can freely use them with my imagination. Provided I have enough mana for it.''

    After going through the book, he became a little interested in some spells with low mana consumption, which he believed could use soon.

    *Plop*

    Keeping the book beside him with a plop, Luis sighed and mumbled. "I have a lot of things to do before the game story starts."

    With that, Luis drifted off to sleep.

    ***

    Inside her room, Alicia had a hard time sleeping. Whenever she closes her eyes, she remembers the scene near the pond and Luis'' words at that time.

    "What''s wrong with me?" She mumbled in annoyance.

    ***

    The next morning, Luis woke up early and didn''t admire himself like always, as he had something important to do. Beside him was Alicia, who couldn''t have a good sleepst night. In front of him stood Jack, his father''s loyal subordinate. Can also be referred to as his father''s shadow.

    Luis had seen Jack since his childhood, but he still doesn''t know much about him. Jack doesn''t have a surname and only ever acted on his father''s orders.

    He was highlypetent and powerful. He is also the one who manages many things on Ronald''s behalf. Most of all, Jack was trustworthy.

    Luis kept on swiping the hologram files in front of him. Alicia waited for a while. When she saw Luis was done with whatever he was doing, she couldn''t help but ask. "Why did you suddenly want to check these reports? In all the results, we got nothing."

    The disappointment was written on her face. Luis was currently checking all the reports of the investigation Alicia had done over thest few years.

    "You didn''t find anything wrong. Isn''t that the most suspicious thing?"

    "What do you mean?" Alicia didn''t understand what Luis was getting at.

    "Are you telling me these reports are false?" Alicia asked while knitting her brows.

    "How would I know? Also, all the reports can''t be false, right? It may be possible to receive a false report once or twice. But not all of them, when many people had done the investigation." Luis replied with a shrug.

    Alicia nodded her head, thinking back to Luis'' words. "So what is the suspicious thing you are talking about?"

    Luis just smiled and didn''t answer her question. Instead, he looked at Jack and asked. "Did you do what I had asked of you?"

    Jack nodded his head and said in an emotionless voice, "Yes, young master."

    Luis nodded and then looked at Alicia, who was waiting for his answer. "I''ll exin, but before that, tell me something, Alicia."

    Alicia looked at him, waiting for his question.

    "Why do you think even after all these years you couldn''t find any information about them?"

    "Why?" Alicia raised her brow as if thinking of an answer.

    "Indeed, why it is?" Luis nodded and said, "Even with the Raven family, the Suarez family, and the Desmond family''s informationwork, we couldn''t find a clue."

    "Why do you think that is?" He asked again.

    "Cause they are hidden so well," Alicia replied.

    "Of course, they are hidden well. But, I want to know, how can they be hidden so well?" Luis'' words made her rethink everything.

    Alicia had tried everything to search for them yet couldn''t find any clue. Raven family''s informationwork is one of the best so it should be possible to find their traces at the very least. But they couldn''t find anything. So why was it?

    "Either they are so powerful that we can''t even find their traces or... someone powerful is hiding them," Alicia murmured.

    Luis smiled and asked, "Now who has enough power and influence over this country that can hide things, even from 3 of the major families?"

    ***

    ------------------------

    Quiz Time:-

    A.N. - Who could the mastermind be?

    1) This Country''s King

    2) The King''s aide

    3) Maria Raven''s enemies

    4) Crown Prince

    5) Other species

    6) None of the Above

    Leave Paragraphments in the answer you choose.

 Chapter 23: Martial Arts

    <h4>Chapter 23: Martial Arts</h4>

    "Are you suggesting the King is behind this?" Alicia asked.

    Luis neither agreed nor denied. He just continued looking at her with a smile.

    Alicia stared at him and stated, "If he wanted to kill Mom or even you. There was no need to go in such a roundabout way. He could have easily done so."

    "Well, that''s true." Luis nodded his head, agreeing with her statement. The King was a Transcendent (SS) rank-awakened being. Even if Maria was at her full strength, he could have easily killed her without leaving any traces. There was no need to send some assassins and erase their traces afterwards.

    "Did I neglect him too much?" Alicia touched her chin and started thinking seriously. She thought back to the time when she was suspicious of the King too. "I have been suspicious of him too, but never got any proof."

    "You were suspicious of him?" Luis asked.

    Alicia nodded and replied, "The incident happened when my Dad was called to the Imperial City. It made me suspicious of him."

    Luis thought this girl was sharp. He was sure with his help she would figure out the real mastermind soon.

    ''I could have directly revealed it. But I don''t have any evidence.'' Luis sighed inwardly.

    "Yeah, that is why I asked Jack to make the preparation," Luis stated.

    "What do you mean?" Alicia asked.

    Luis looked at her and started speaking. "After the family dinner, I talked with your father."

    ***

    Back in time - After the family dinner.

    "Uncle David."

    "Hm? What is it, Luis?" David turned back to see Luis, who was calling for him.

    Luis came closer to him and said, "I have a small request."

    "What do you want?" David asked, wondering what his son-inw wanted from him.

    "Can you hide the fact that Alicia is living with us now when you go to the dungeon?" Luis stated his request.

    David looked at Luis in confusion, wondering why he wanted to do that. ''What is he nning?''

    But he didn''t ask his purpose but asked another question, "Whatever you are doing won''t harm her, right?"

    Luis was silent for a moment, then said, "I am doing this for our better future uncle." At first, he just wanted to take revenge for the previous Luis, but now he has another reason. That was Alicia.

    That was all David wanted to know. He could see Luis wasn''t lying. He will care for his daughter.

    "Okay, the information will be spread as such; Alicia and I returned to the Raven Mansion after this dinner and 2 dayster, I went to the dungeon with my guild."

    "Thank you, Uncle." Luis was very grateful that David didn''t ask any questions. It would have been troublesome to exin everything.

    ***

    "Then I left your mansion''s monitoring at Jack''s hands," Luis said, pointing at Jack.

    "Are you saying they are going to attack me next?" Alicia asked.

    "It''s not bad to be cautious, right?" Luis said with a slight smile.

    "Well, that''s true," Alicia murmured thoughtfully.

    *Knock* *Knock*

    "Luis, Alicia, it''s time." Lumine''s voice sounded from outside the door.

    "Tell me if you find anything suspicious." With those words, Luis left Jack with Alicia beside him.

    ***

    At the training grounds, Lumine looked at both of them and nodded in satisfaction.

    "This battle-suit looks good on you two."

    Luis was wearing a blue battle suit that covered his whole body. It looked more like an advanced version of a body-tight athletic suit.

    "Why does it have to be pink?" Alicia asked. She was wearing a pink version of the same suit.

    "But you look cute. If you don''t believe me, ask Luis." Lumine said and pointed at Luis.

    "Yeah, you look cute," Luis answered without wasting a breath.

    "I-I see." Alicia shuttered and shyly nced at him.

    "These suit is made of Giant Badger''s skin. So they are very tough and will do a good job protecting you." Lumine exined.

    Giant Badgers are B-rank monsters. Their thick skin is so tough that normal-ded weapons can''t even scratch it.

    Luis and Alicia looked at Lumine as they had a premonition about today''s training.

    "In today''s practice, both of you will be fighting me." Lumine smiled as she pointed her thumb toward herself.

    "Won''t we die fighting you?" Luis was extremely serious.

    "Don''t worry, I''ll hold back and won''t fight back." Hearing this, Luis was a little relieved, but still slightly worried.

    "Let''s not waste any more time, okay? I have a lot to teach you guys. Alicia, you are first. Show me all your moves." Lumine said as she stood in the middle of the ground and prompted Alicia to make the move.

    Alicia tied her hair so it wouldn''t trouble her while fighting. Luis was captivated for a second, but immediately shifted his focus to the fighting stance she took.

    "Let begin," Lumine uttered.

    Alicia closed the distance between her and Lumine and started using her martial arts.

    Her moves were beautiful and urate, which showed her years of practice and amazing talent. But all her moves were either blocked or easily partied by Lumine.

    ''As expected, her Martial arts talent is good.'' Luis thought inwardly. What Alicia was using were the techniques she learned from Maria when she was alive.

    Lumine was also surprised to see her moves. ''She has talent but.''

    She blocked Alicia''s punch and asked lightly, "Why aren''t you using Mana coating?"

    Alicia stopped in her tracks. Until now, she had only practiced Martial arts without mana.

    "With just physical moves, you won''t be able to do anything." Hearing Lumine''s words, Alicia didn''t hesitate anymore as she covered her fists with mana.

    Now her punches became destructive, but Lumine stopped blocking her punches and kicks. Instead, she dodged all of them while staying in one ce.

    ''How the hell is she doing that?'' Luis wondered, with shocked eyes. His vision was better than other people''s because of his skill, but he still couldn''t get a trace of her movements.

    ''With our current strength, we can''t survive.'' Luis thought inwardly as he remembered the dangerous events in the game that would probably happen in real life too.

 Chapter 24: Mother’s Jealously.

    <h4>Chapter 24: Mother''s Jealously.</h4>

    "Haa... Haa..." After a few minutes of constantly swinging her limbs without even being able to touch Lumine, Alicia was also getting a little tired.

    "Okay, we can stop now." With Lumine''s words, Alicia stopped using her moves and panted heavily.

    Alicia was bbergasted, thinking, ''I have practiced martial arts for way longer than this. How can I get tired so fast?''

    As if reading her thoughts, Lumine said, "You were using Mana coating while doing martial arts. So you needed to focus more than before. Which mentally exhausted you."

    Alicia nodded in understanding. When Luis came near them, he gave Alicia a bottle of mana potion and a towel to wipe her sweat.

    "Thank you," Alicia whispered. Luis just gave a charming smile and said, "No problem."

    *p*

    "Okay, it''s your turn, Luis." Lumine disturbed their little flirting without hesitation.

    ***

    Alicia was a little distance far from them as they stood in front of each other.

    "Mom, are you angry about something?" Luis asked carefully, as he saw the annoyed look on his mother''s face.

    Lumine gave a fake smile and said, "Why would I be angry when my unfilial son brought a towel and drinks for his fiancee when he didn''t even care about his mother?"

    Luis looked at her weirdly and retorted, "But you didn''t even break a sweat."

    That was true. With her rank, there was no way she would break a sweat over something like this.

    "Does it matter?" Lumine pouted.

    ''Isn''t it?'' Luis felt a headacheing, so he instantly changed his words. "I will remember next time."

    "Good boy~," Lumine said sweetly. "Let''s start."

    Luis took a fighting stance and covered his fists with mana coating as he started throwing punches and kicks at Lumine. Expectedly, none of them could break her defenses.

    This was the first time he was using martial arts since he entered Luis'' body. The only experience he had was from the memories of Luis. The reason he could use them properly was because of his high talent.

    As he continued fighting, and as every moment passed, his moves improved. Lumine had a wide grin on her face as she noticed the changes in Luis'' moves.

    "Sweety, don''t think I''ll let you off so easily." Her sudden words caught him off guard.

    "What do you mean?" Luis wondered what she was talking about now.

    "Oh, did you forget? Then let me remind you." Lumine saw the confused expression on his face and said.

    "For years I felt sad because my son didn''t have much talent in martial arts, but I still pressed him to practice them. I always felt guilty in my heart for pushing him so much." When she said that, she had an expression as if her heart was breaking and tears wille out of her eyes.

    But suddenly her expression changed to surprise. "Until recently, when I suddenly found out that the bad boy was just pretending. When I saw his Martial arts talent was S-rank."

    Then she had a thoughtful look on her face. "At first, I thought there was something wrong. Because the pain and effort he put into practice all looked so real." She said, remembering the past few years when she trained Luis.

    "But he also had a talent for acting, which made all my guilt disappear as I decided to punish that bad son of mine." She had a fake smile on her face, but Luis could hear the irritation in her voice.

    ''It''s a misunderstanding!!!'' Luis wanted to scream, but all the facts were against him. He wanted to say everything was real. All the hard work the previous Luis put in and the pain he went through. Everything was real. It wasn''t an act.

    But how could he exin? So he could only grit his teeth and ept whatever punishment he will receive. After all, from Lumine''s perspective, Luis had tricked her, which made her heartbreak.

    Even if he was ready to receive the punishment, he still tried to escape in onest struggle. He remembered all the movies, anime, andics he saw in his previous life and used his Performer talent to the max.

    He stopped using his moves and lowered his head.

    "Hm? What happened Luis? Why did you stop?" Lumine asked in confusion. ''It doesn''t seem like he is out of mana.''

    "Can..."

    "Can?"

    Luis suddenly raised his head. His eyes looked teary and full of pleading. It could make anyone''s heartbreak seeing his expression. "Can you let me off once?"

    Lumine felt her chest tighten and thought she was a bad mother who was abusing her little child. ''How could I be so cruel? Even if he was pretending, he still worked hard.''

    Lumine''s eyes became moist as she looked at Luis lovingly. "Don''t worry my son, it''s alright. I know there must be a reason behind this."

    Luis nodded his head as he said in a solemn expression, "Yes Mom, but I can''t tell you yet." Lumine nodded her head in understanding. "It''s fine. You can tell me when you are ready."

    ''I''m saved.'' Luis thought inwardly and smiled. "Thank you, Mom."

    Lumine looked at him with a smile. As she wiped the tears from her eyes, she said, "I won''t punish you, but I''ll make you work hard."

    Luis nodded his head seriously. Hence, he once again started attacking Lumine.

    "Don''t just put powers behind your punches."

    "You are leaving a lot of openings."

    Soon after, Alicia also joined them as she also started fighting Lumine.

    This time, whenever there was a w in their movements, Lumine would point it out. Fighting one of the Overlord (S) rank powerhouse, theirbat sense was improving rapidly.

    After thebat training, Lumine taught them muscle-strengthening techniques using mana. Both Luis and Alicia had been taught Human Anatomy since childhood, so it was easy for them to grasp it. Now they just needed to practice it while applying it in battle.

    Muscle strengthening, as the name suggests, is the strengthening of a body''s muscle by using mana. It can give a boost in strength or agility based on the type of muscle that is strengthened.

    For this, a lot of practice is needed, otherwise the muscles will tear apart if they can''t handle the input of mana. That''s why with practice, the muscles can get slowly used to it.

 Chapter 25: Ren Varnish

    <h4>Chapter 25: Ren Varnish</h4>

    After the practice, Luis had dinner with his family and went to his room. Inside his room, he started learning spells from the Ancient magic book. There were a lot of spells, but Luis was currently focusing on the spells he could use with the amount of mana he possess now.

    *Knock* *Knock*

    "Who Is it?" Luis asked.

    "Young master, it''s me." Jack''s emotionless voice came from the outside.

    "Jack? Come inside." Luis closed the book and put it beside him.

    "Young master, we have found some suspicious individuals."

    Hearing this, Luis smirked. ''I didn''t think there would be results so soon. Did that rate out too?''

    As Jack started listing out the suspicious individuals, Luis'' mood worsened because that rat didn''te out. ''I don''t want to make this investigation unnecessarily troublesome.''

    Thinking of this, Luis decided to show off his hands. He put on a thoughtful expression and asked, "None of them are members of the church?"

    "Church? Does the young master want us to investigate someone?" Jack didn''t question why, because he was here just to follow Luis'' orders, not to question his decisions.

    Seeing Jack''s reaction, Luis became even happier that he didn''t have to exin his reasons to Jack.

    "Yes, I want you to monitor a person called Ren Varnish. He is the direct disciple of the Pope." Luis immediately listed out the person. Jack couldn''t link out the reason for him to be monitored, but he nodded nheless.

    "Also, remember to use top-grade stealth artifacts. Don''t leave any people to monitor him." Luis reminded. ''As per his character, Ren''s senses are very sharp. He would easily find out if we leave people to monitor him.''

    "How long should we monitor him, young master?"

    "One month at the very least," Luis replied, thinking of Ren''s rtionship with the mastermind behind the organization.

    If Luis could, he wanted to just capture Ren and interrogate him. But he is the direct disciple of the Pope. If he captures and interrogates him without any solid proof against him, the rtions with the church may worsen and it''ll bring a lot of problems to not only him but also the Suarez family.

    So Luis chooses a safer approach to have him monitored. He expected Ren to make contact with the organization at least once a month.

    ''If this doesn''t work. Then let''s just capture him, even if we make enemies with the church. I am sure once his atrocities are revealed, even the church won''t be able to protect him.'' Luis gave a few more instructions to Jack and names of some other individuals who he wanted to be monitored.

    Sending Jack back, Luis once again focused on reading the Ancient Magic Book. ''There is no time to waste.''

    Luis was sure he is going to create a lot of enemies in the future and they won''t wait for him to get stronger. That''s why he needs to prepare as much as he can.

    "I need to work hard."

    ***

    Soon, a week passed by since Luis started training under Lumine. Today, before his training with Lumine starts, Ronald called for him.

    "Hey, Dad." Luis smiled as he saw Ronald drinking a cup of coffee and sitting on the sofa.

    Ronald raised his brow as he looked at him and said, "It seems Lumine isn''t training you hard. I can''t see any wounds."

    Luis knew Ronald was being sarcastic. He rolled his eyes and replied, "Just check the number of healing elixirs used on me every day. You will get your answer."

    Ronald gave a smallugh at Luis'' response. "Anyway, I have some free time today. Let''s test the spells you learned."

    Ronald was getting a little itchy thinking of the ancient magic spells.

    "Okay." Luis wasn''t surprised. He expected this was the reason Ronald called him.

    Soon Luis and Ronald arrived at the Magic training room. Although it is called the Magic training room, it was a spacious big hall of 60 cubic meters. The walls had protection magic cast on them, making them sturdy. The magic training room also had a magic barrier covering it, so the practice inside won''t destroy the facility. There was also an auto repair function, so small damages may be fine.

    "So what kind of spells did you learn, Luis?" Ronald asked, hiding his excitement. He also wanted to know what kind of spells a magic book, which is a reward from an SS-grade dungeon, contains.

    Luis was a little smug inwardly. ''Not only I learned them. I even restructured those spells and made them more convenient for me.'' Luis had made use of his Sorcerer''s talent to the max in thisst week.

    Luis raised his three fingers and said, "I learned some spells of Spatial Magic, Illusion Magic, and Lightning Magic."

    "Then show me." Ronald folded his arms and waited for Luis to cast spells.

    Normally, when a magician first learns a spell, he takes a long time casting it and, with practice, he shortens the time and eventually perfects the spell.

    But Luis, who had a Sorcerer (S) talent, decrypted the pattern of those spells and then destructured it, constructing it again, making it morepatible and convenient for him.

    "This is the first spell known as Spatial Jump."

    With those words, Luis activated his mana, then in front of Ronald, Luis vanished from his original position and instantly appeared a few meters away from his initial spot.

    Ronald had a surprised look on his face, then he muttered while analyzing, "I didn''t see you move. It shouldn''t be possible for you to move so fast with your rank that even someone of my rank can''t catch your movement." He then looked at Luis and asked. "Is it something like Instant Teleportation?"

    "Yeah, but the range is only limited to 10 meters for now and my mana is not enough to use it in session."

    Ronald shook his head and said, "Mana cost won''t be a problem in the future." He then continued, "This is a game-changing spell in battles."

    Ronald sighed, thinking how unfair this skill was. People try to increase their speed to catch their opponent off-guard, but what if the opponent can teleport?

    ''I pity those who be my son''s enemies in the future.'' Ronald gave a silent prayer in his heart.

    ----------------------

    A.N. - Oh right, Don''tpare the church to the churches of our world. Some of their styles are simr, but their beliefs may differ.

 Chapter 26: First Dungeon

    <h4>Chapter 26: First Dungeon</h4>

    After that, one after another, Luis started showing all the spells he had learned.

    "Dad, this is Pocket Space." A small purple vortex appeared near Luis as he continued, "Currently, its storage capacity is 2 cubic meters."

    "That''s convenient," Ronald murmured. He had seen simr storage spells and skills, so he wasn''t that surprised.

    "Next is a spell of Lightning Magic." Luis activated his mana, and the sparks formed near him, which soon covered his entire body.

    The next moment, Luis made a gesture of throwing something, and a Lightning Javelin formed and shot at an immense speed.

    Under the surprised eyes of Ronald, the Javelin struck the practice dummy with great power.

    The dummy wasn''t destroyed because many high-grade spells are practiced here. So, although Luis'' spell was extraordinary for his rank. Compared to the power shown by high rankers, it was nothing.

    But Ronald was still excited because the power behind that spell was several ranks stronger,pared to Luis'' current rank.

    Seeing Ronald''s expression, Luis smiled slightly. "It''s called Thunder Javelin. The power behind the attack can be adjusted with the amount of mana I use."

    This made Ronald even more excited. Luis then took out a mana potion and chugged it down.

    "Anyway, this is it, Dad. I can''t show you my Illusion spells, as it won''t have any effect on you." Luis stated while sighing. Ronald is an Overlord (S) rank powerhouse. His mental resistance is so high that it can negate Luis'' illusion spell passively.

    Ronald nodded his head in understanding. But seeing Luis'' downcast expression, he couldn''t help but cheer him up. "In that case, work hard and learn some powerful Illusion magic that will even put me under your illusion." He said with a chuckle.

    Luis smiled slightly and replied with a look of determination, "I will."

    Seeing Luis'' confident look, Ronald was in a trance, but he regained hisposure soon after and said, "It seems the spells are genuine and very useful, too. Keep up the good work, Luis."

    Encouraging him a little, Ronald went back to attend to his matters. As he was leaving the facility, Ronald couldn''t help but think. ''Your grandson is very simr to you, Dad. He yearns for strength and his eyes are full of confidence. I wonder how far he will go.''

    ***

    When Luis arrived at the training grounds. His eyes inadvertently nced at Alicia. In thest few days, under the hellish training of his mother, their rtionship has also gotten a little closer.

    Alicia also became a lot morefortable with Luis. "Good morning, Luis."

    "Good Morning, Alicia." Luis greeted back. Seeing that Lumine was on a call, he asked, "What is Mom doing?"

    "Preparing a car," Alicia replied.

    "A car?" Luis raised an eyebrow as he asked, "Are we going somewhere?"

    Before Alicia could answer, Lumine came over and said, "We are going to a Dungeon."

    "A Dungeon?" Luis was surprised by this sudden revtion.

    Lumine nodded and said, "Yeah, although both of you are growing fast, it''s time that you face some monsters, too." With a serious expression, she continued.

    "A low-rank monster will be less dangerous and as both of you are yet to reach F-rank. There is still some sense of crisis. If you be stronger and then face weak monsters, it won''t have the desired effect."

    She sighed and said, "Both of you are at the peak of G rank. So facing a G-rank dungeon is suitable for you guys."

    Luis and Alicia nodded their heads, agreeing to Lumine''s words. They felt it will be a good experience.

    ***

    Inside the car, Luis asked, "Which dungeon are we going to, Mom?"

    "It''s a G-rank dungeon called the Cemetery. It''s under our guild''s administration. The only monsters in this dungeon are Skeleton Soldiers and Zombies. As there are no resources in this dungeon and the winning reward is useless. It is mainly used to train the new members of the guild." Lumine exined, remembering the information about the dungeon. She had handpicked this dungeon after going through the list of dungeons under their guild.

    Lumine didn''t notice, but Luis'' expression was a little strange at the moment. ''Isn''t that?'' Thinking of something, he asked, "What is the final reward, Mom?"

    Lumine couldn''t understand why he suddenly asked this, but answered nheless. "It''s a Red Skull."

    Hearing this, Luis'' expression became even more serious as he queried. "What''s the use of that Red Skull?"

    Shaking her head, Lumine replied, "It''s useless. It doesn''t contain any magical properties, and many people tried doing experiments with it. In the end, they concluded it was just a decoration."

    Luis'' eyes brightened at that moment. ''Isn''t that the tutorial dungeon of [The Holy Dragon Knight 2]? It is also the start of the quests rted to the Ghost King. In the tutorial of this sequel, the dungeon that the protagonist entered was also called the Cemetery. Just like Mom said, there were only Skeleton Soldiers and Zombies. But after he got the Red Skull, he opened the path to the hidden passage inside the Cemetery. From there, the quests rted to the Ghost King started.''

    Thinking of this dungeon, Luis couldn''t help but get excited. ''This is a great opportunity.''

    ''I almost forgot about this dungeon because I was thinking of the first game''s plot these days.'' But then a thought came to his mind. ''In the second game, this dungeon wasn''t under the Suarez family. Does that mean by the start of the second game, the Suarez family sold this dungeon?''

    Luis couldn''t think of a reason, so he decided not to. ''It doesn''t matter, anyway. I''m going to take the rewards this time.''

    Lumine looked at Luis, who was in deep thought, and assured, "Don''t think about it too much. Although the clearing reward is useless, after you guys clear the dungeon, I will reward you guys myself." Luis looked at his mom, who misunderstood him.

    ''Useless? No, Mom. You are wrong.'' He wanted to refute her. ''The Red Skull is very important,'' but he had no way to exin. So he silently agreed with a nod. ''She will reward me, anyway. So let''s leave the exnation for a while.''

 Chapter 27: The Cemetery

    <h4>Chapter 27: The Cemetery</h4>

    Outside the G-grade dungeon ''The Cemetery''. As soon as he got out of the car. Luis saw the site was mostly vacant. Only people from the medical team seemed to be present. Looking at the ck portal which was the entrance of the dungeon, Luis'' fingers trembled in excitement.

    The three of them were already in battle gear, so they were ready to enter whenever.

    Before entering the dungeon, Lumine gazed at them and reminded them.

    "Both of you will clear this dungeon together. I will observe your actions from a distance and won''t interfere unless the situation is extremely dangerous." Both of them nodded. Then, looking at each other, they smiled. They could see the excitement in each other''s eyes.

    Rolling her eyes at their antics, Lumine asked, "Are you ready?"

    "Yes!" both of them answered in unison.

    "Then let''s go." With those words, Lumine went inside the portal. Luis and Alicia followed after her.

    As soon as Luis touched the portal, an ethereal feeling emerged inside him. The portal gave him a familiar feeling of using Space elements and at the same time, it doesn''t. It was an indescribable feeling. As if something even grander. A power that is out of reach for mortals. He didn''t know the concept behind it, nor did he know the answer to that feeling, but by the time he was out of his trance-like state, he was already inside the dungeon.

    ''What was that?'' Luis didn''t understand what had transpired. ''Is that feeling normal when you enter a dungeon? Or is it something else?''

    ''I should look into itter.'' Thinking of this, Luis decided to put this matter aside.

    Lumine looked around for a bit. Nodding her head, she said, "Okay, you guys can start. Don''t mind me, I''ll be hidden." With those words, in the blink of an eye, Lumine vanished.

    "What?" Both of them were surprised as they looked around to see that Lumine couldn''t be found anymore.

    Luis didn''t expect his Mother''s stealth ability to be so amazing. Shaking his head, he said, "Let''s do it, Alicia."

    "Yes," Alicia looked around vigntly.

    ***

    Behind them was the portal. In front was the tunnel that was giving a dreadful and ominous aura. They could see their surroundings because of the luminous moss growing on the walls. As a herb, its only useful function is to glow, and ismonly found in dungeons.

    A momentter, both of them started walking forward, taking every step cautiously. Though their strength was great, it was their first time entering a dungeon, and both of them were level-headed people. So they didn''t rush around arrogantly.

    Seeing this Lumine''s lips curled upwards as a smile formed on her face. ''They aren''t rash.''

    To be honest, Lumine wasn''t worried about their safety. She had trust in their judgment and their strength. With enough capabilities, even a normal G rank can fight the monsters in this dungeon. So why can''t the two geniuses of this generation be?

    She was just here to see how they act inside a dungeon. Seeing them walking together cautiously, Lumine was very satisfied.

    When they were deep inside the tunnel, they came across scattered bones around them. Luis'' perception caught some movement. So he reminded her, "Alicia, be ready."

    With a small ''Um'', Alicia took her fighting stance.

    They didn''t wait long as the bones started vibrating. They started joining together and taking the form of a human skeleton.

    *ck* *ck*

    Sounds of bones cking could be heard at the Skeleton''s every movement.

    "It''s here, a Skeleton Soldier." Luis looked at it excitedly. Although, he had seen some monsters in previous Luis'' memories. It was his first time seeing one in person.

    "Alicia, I will- " Before he could say that, he would take care of it. Alicia had already made her move. As she dashed forward, closing the distance.

    *Punch*

    *Crack*

    *Scatter*

    With a hard punch on the skull. Alicia crushed the Skeleton Soldier and the rest of the bones scattered.

    Confirming that the monster was dead, she turned around and asked, "Did you say something?"

    Shaking his head, he said, "It''s nothing. Let''s continue."

    Alicia tilted her head in confusion but didn''t think much about it. As they continued moving, they came across a group of three Skeleton Soldiers.

    ''Let''s leave one for Alicia. I''ll deal with the other two.'' With a small grin on his face, Luis uttered, "Alicia, I''ll-"

    Once again, before he could say anything, Alicia was already rushing forward. She punched the first skeleton, crushing his skull andunched two Ice shards, finishing the other two.

    *Crash*

    *Crack* x2

    "Huff," Letting out a breath, she confirmed that they were dead and turned to look at Luis, repeating the same sentence, "Did you say something?"

    Luis'' lip twitched. ''Calm down Luis, that''s your future wife. A man needs to have patience.''

    Taking a deep breath, he said, "Although your reaction speed was good, and you dealt with them easily. But you shouldn''t rush ahead fighting alone, Alicia. You can depend on me, too."

    Luis looked at her with his face full of concern. "I don''t want you to face everything alone. Remember, I''m right beside you."

    "I know it may take a while before you get used to me. Sometimes you may think that you could have solved the problem alone and more efficiently. But I will be happy if you could depend on me more." He said with his face full of affection.

    Hearing Luis'' words, both Alicia and Lumine became emotional. Luis cared for her so much. Thinking of this Alicia''s heartfelt giddy.

    "Will you depend on me, Alicia?" Luis asked softly.

    She lowered her head and shyly nodded without saying anything. Seeing her nod, Luis gave a charming smile and let out a sigh of relief. "I''m d."

    ''It seems I''ll have a chance to fight too.'' Luis was worried Alicia might defeat all the monsters herself. As his future wife, he can''tpete for monsters with her. Hence, he tried to persuade her. Fortunately, it worked.

 Chapter 28: Disgusting Corpses!

    <h4>Chapter 28: Disgusting Corpses!</h4>

    Venturing further inside the tunnel, their encounters with the monsters increased. Using mana coating to punch their skulls, Luis took care of another group of monsters.

    Since Luis''st reminder, Alicia has been trying to work together with him instead of rushing head-on. At first, she was ufortable, but as they faced more and more monsters, she gradually adjusted herself.

    "Huh? Is that the tunnel''s end?" Alicia muttered, looking at the bright area that didn''t seem to be caused by the Luminous moss.

    "Yeah." With his perception, Luis was certain that the tunnel''s end was right in front of them.

    As they got closer to the end of the tunnel, a putrid smell entered their nasal. The rotting smell of decaying organic matter nauseated them.

    The sight in front of them was an open cemetery. A red moon hung in the sky, giving off a dense aura of death. The ground was wet, as if just showered by a small drizzle of rain. Naked barks of ck trees without any leaves stood tall, further giving an ominous look to the picture. The slightly foggier cemetery may give trouble to rookies, but for Luis and Alicia, it wasn''t a problem.

    *Grrrr*

    Growling sounds echoed, which made them confused. ''There should be no beast type monsters in this dungeon? So, who is growling?''

    As if answering to their doubts, a hand came out of the wet ground. A rotten smell of flesh and decaying dead bodies hit their noses. Soon after tearing the ground, the dead bodies started crawling out of their graves.

    *Grrr*

    "It''s the Zombies." Luis and Alicia both had disgusted expressions on their faces. As more and more zombies crawled out from their graves. It didn''t take long for them to be surrounded.

    Coating his arms and legs with mana, Luis punched the closest zombie. "Ugh, so gross."

    ''Should I just use Thunder Javelin? But I don''t want to waste mana.'' At this moment, Luis regretted not having a long-range weapon with him.

    A gun would have been useful in his current state as all these zombies are only G rank, but normal guns or firearms won''t be much effective for stronger monsters. Though Luis has something special nned for that.

    ''I wonder if Alicia isn''t disgusted by them?'' Thinking of this, Luis nced in Alicia''s direction. She was slicing those zombies with a sword.

    ''So, she was disgusted.''

    Her sword skills were amazing as she chopped their heads without hesitation. ''Did she keep her sword inside her Mana Bracelet?''

    Thinking of Alicia''s talents, Luis wasn''t much surprised. She has three S-grade talents. Magician, Martial Arts, and Swordsmanship. In the game story, she was one of the character with the highest potential. But because of her unfortunate endings, she could never shine.

    Luis punched another zombie, and his head burst out, sowing his disgusting innards. ''Damn, I don''t want to touch them anymore.''

    Luis thought of something and activated his [Thunder Javelin]. He didn''t put too much mana into that spell.

    ''Can I do it?'' Thinking of something, he shouted. "Alicia! Can you keep these zombies away from me for a few seconds?"

    Alicia, who was fighting the zombies, chopped the one in front of her as she nced at Luis. Seeing that he was up to something, she didn''t hesitate and shouted. "Then, hurry up!"

    Luis smiled and started changing the structure of his spell. ''I don''t have much time. I can only tweak a little.''

    While Luis waspletely focused on the spell, Alicia did her best to keep those zombies at bay. Sometimes sheunched ice shards, puncturing holes in their heads or directly chopping them if the distance was close.

    "Just a little more, Alicia." Luis shouted.

    ''Why am I feeling happy that Luis is depending on me? Is this what Luis was talking about? Depend on each other.'' As soon as that thought crossed her mind, a smile involuntarily appeared on her beautiful face. ''It doesn''t feel bad.''

    ''Alright, I won''t let any of them get close to him.'' As she made up her mind, her sword started moving swiftly and even more gracefully. The ice shards became sharper and more concentrated.

    ''Why is she smiling like that?'' Luis saw Alicia chopping the head of a Zombie with a sweet smile on her frosty face and some blood sttered on her cheek. He couldn''t help but shiver.

    Although seeing her smile is a lot better than seeing her cold self, the scene in front of him was terrifying.

    Not letting himself get distracted, his focus shifted to his spell. A momentter, his eyes shed as he saw his tweaking work. Now it was apletely brand new spell.

    "Alicia, I''m ready." He shouted.

    Alicia continued chopping the zombies as she waited for Luis to do his thing.

    Luis smiled and said, "Let''s see how it works." Yellow sparks of lightning formed around Luis and they started taking shape in the air. Unlike before, the Javelin''s shape was a little different. Luis grabbed it and swung it hard, chopping the Zombies near him.

    [Lightning Spear]

    "This spell is amazing." Luis had a wide grin on his face. Although Luis wasn''t used to a Spear. Because of his Martial Arts talent, he could handle it well.

    ''Using a weapon is great.'' Because of his initial excitement, he jumped right in the middle of the Zombie horde and started killing them. Thrusting, swinging, mming, piercing. All his movements were elegant as he defeated them. ''Is it because of my Performer Talent? Cool!''

    From the perspective of a martial artist, his spear skills might be good, but for a person with talent specializing in spearman-ship, it was nothing.

    Martial arts talent not only consists of hand-to-handbat but also armedbat. But if Luis''s sword skills arepared to Alicia, who has an S-grade in swordsmanship. Then he can only be considered average.

    Alicia noticed she had already cleared all the zombies near her. So her focus shifted to Luis and, looking at his fighting style, she couldn''t help but be mesmerized.

    His spear made of lightning made an arc and swung beautifully, chopping the monsters. She looked at Luis'' handsome figure, who, with his refined movements, fought in the middle of a zombie horde, and danced atop their graves.

 Chapter 29: The Dungeon Boss!

    <h4>Chapter 29: The Dungeon Boss!</h4>

    Alicia held the sword in her left hand and looking at her right palm, she wondered. ''Can I do that too?''

    Checking her surroundings once again Alicia, focused on the Ice element and the mana inside her body, trying to bend it into a shape of a sword.

    As it was her first time doing this, she had some trouble controlling the mana output. Nheless, she seeded. A crude bluish-white sword made of ice appeared on her right palm. Its design wasn''t noteworthy, but it was still remarkable.

    In her excitement, she rushed toward the zombie horde that Luis was fighting and used her Ice Sword to fight them. Chopping them was a bit difficult at first, but with some movements, she managed to get a hold of it.

    *Chop*

    *Swish*

    "Nice sword you got there, Alicia." Luisplimented her while fighting the zombies.

    "Same goes for you." Alicia smiled back, looking at his Lightning Spear.

    ***

    It didn''t take long before they finally finished the zombie horde. Looking at the sea of zombie corpses, Luis couldn''t help but mutter, "It''s going to stink a lot."

    Alicia agreed with him. The smell was disgusting. She said, "Let''s move before more zombiese out."

    Luis agreed with her as they moved on deeper into the cemetery. On their way, they came across a few zombies, which they dealt with swiftly.

    At the center of the cemetery, they came across arge gate. The artictely designed gate made them wonder. ''Is this the boss'' room?''

    At this moment, Lumine appeared beside them.

    "Wow, Mom! You scared me!" Luis gasped.

    Alicia also looked at Lumine with a surprised expression.

    Lumine pouted in dissatisfaction, "How can you be afraid of your beautiful Mom?"

    Luis'' mouth twitched, as he exined while sighing, "You know very well, I didn''t mean it like that."

    Lumine grinned and said, "Anyway, until now you guys did a wonderful job. Now that you are going to fight the G-rank dungeon, boss. Don''t let your guard down, okay?"

    They nodded in unison.

    Taking some rest and recovering their mana. They finally entered the boss'' room. The room wasn''t big and in front of them stood a skeleton wearing armor with a sword in his hand.

    "Is that the boss?" Luis mumbled, his hands trembling in excitement.

    ''I remember seeing this monster in the Holy Dragon Knight 2. Only after defeating this monster does the main story of the second game starts.''

    ''In the second game, this was the first hurdle for yers. The protagonist had holy magic with him so it wasn''t much difficult. Let''s see how we deal with it.''

    "Alicia, are you ready?"

    "Yeah."

    "Let''s go then." With those words, Luis created a Thunder Javelin using 2 percent of his mana andunched it straight at the Skeleton Knight.

    Soaring through the air, the Thunder Javelin was about to strike the still Skeleton Knight. When suddenly.

    *ng*

    *Zzzt*

    The Skeleton Knight suddenly moved and directly cut the attack in half with his sword.

    Then the next moment, it moved sideways and dodged the shards of ice that wereunched from his blind spot.

    The moment Luis used his Thunder Javelin, Alicia alsounched Ice shards right behind it. Though the trick didn''t work on the Skeleton Knight. By this time, Luis was already close to it andunched a heavy strike with mana coating his fists, and the attack was pretty effective.

    *Boom*

    "Don''t let it have a chance, Alicia," Luis shouted and threw Thunder Javelin at him. He also jumped right after throwing a heavy barrage of his fists at the enemy. Alicia took out her sword from before whileunching her Ice shards.

    By the time the Skeleton Knight got stable. A good amount of damage was already done.

    ''I have to say, these dungeons, boss monsters, have high endurance and are tricky to deal with. It''s a good thing I remember some of hisbos and didn''t give him a chance to attack first.''

    Alicia also dealt a lot of sword strikes, with her sword coated in mana.

    *Swish*

    *Swish*

    *ng*

    The Skeleton Knight raised his sword to block Alicia''s sword. It was enraged.

    *Screech*

    An ear-piercing screech echoed in the surroundings. Shutting his ears from the painful screech, Luis wondered. ''How can a skeleton make screeching sounds?''

    But before he could sort out his thoughts, he heard loud barking sounds.

    *Sigh* Luis sighed. ''No way. Did it really summon them? Just a bit more and we could have finished him.''

    *Grrr*

    *Grrr*

    The unique skill of Skeleton Knight. Skeleton dogs summon. Six moving endoskeletons arrived, growling.

    With amazing speed, they attacked Luis and Alicia.

    Luis immediately used his new spell, Lightning Spear, and thrust it hard on the skeleton dog''s jaw.

    *ng*

    Alicia used her sword to block the skeleton dog''s bite. Seeing her preupied, the other skeleton dogs didn''t waste any chance and attacked her.

    Alicia gritted her teeth and shouted, "Ice sword." The Mana inside her swirled and four swords made of Ice floated in the air. With a wave of her hand, they wereunched at an extreme pace, directly striking their skulls. She pushed back the Skeleton dog in front of her and shed her sword, killing it.

    She defeated them, but her legs wobbled up a little and became unsteady because of the sudden use of so much mana.

    The Skeleton Knight saw the chance and attacked Alicia from her blind spot. Alicia wasn''t ready to receive that sudden attack. She used her sword to block the attack, but it wasn''t steady.

    ''Uh, it will hurt a bit.'' She braced herself to receive the attack and then fight the monster. But the impact never came.

    *ng*

    She heard a nging sound and was surprised to see Luis appear in front of her and block the attack for her.

    ''What? When?'' Alicia couldn''t believe it. She didn''t even close her eyes, but Luis suddenly appeared in front of her.

    She couldn''t even catch his movement. ''How is that possible?'' She questioned inwardly. Their strength wasn''t far apart, so, How?

    Unaware of Alicia''s inner thoughts. Luis smirked. He mmed his Lightning Spear broken, pushing the monster''s sword away, and shouted, "This is your end!"

    [Thunder Javelin]

    He put 50 percent of his mana into that spell and used the Thunder Javelin from a closer range.

    The Skeleton Knight felt the threat from that spell. It tried to dodge it. But was toote. Luis alreadyunched that spell, destroying the Knight''s armor and his skeletal body, which flew far away together with the spell.

    *Kaboom*

    -And sted in smithereens.

 Chapter 30: Alicia’s Thoughts.

    <h4>Chapter 30: Alicia''s Thoughts.</h4>

    Breaking out in sweats, Luis panted for breaths. ''It seems I used up a lot of Mana.'' His eyes darted in a certain direction, where he saw the destruction caused by his spell.

    "Did I overkill?" Luis muttered.

    "Wow, Luis, what was that?"

    An excited voice of Lumine chimed beside him. "Your father mentioned the spells you learned, but isn''t this too powerful for your rank?"

    If someone told her that the spell was cast by an E rank, she would believe it. But Luis was still a G rank. She gave birth to a genius son; she felt very proud at that moment.

    Luis was embarrassed by the look she was giving.

    "My son is so handsome and talented," Lumine said with a doting smile.

    Ignoring her remarks, his eyes inadvertently shifted to Alicia as he worriedly looked at her.

    "Alicia, are you okay? You were surrounded by them."

    "Huh? I''m fine." Alicia replied, snapping out of her daze-like state.

    "Really?" Luis continued, looking into her eyes as if searching for something. Under his inquiring gaze, she finally relented and with some hesitation, she finally asked. "Um? How did you do that?"

    Since the day she awakened, and her talents were determined. With three S-gradepatible talents, she was considered a genius of this new generation and a future powerhouse with a lot of potential.

    At first, she didn''t care much about it and just thought it might make things a little smoother on her path to revenge. But after meeting Luis, her initial thoughts changed. He made her realize how wrong she was.

    The mistake she was making would have destroyed her eventually, if not now, then in the future. He guided her to the correct path of revenge and even promised to walk this path down with her together.

    This made her curious. ''What kind of person was her fianc��?'' Since then, she started noticing him more. They spend a lot of time together, mostly doing her future mother-inw''s hell-like training.

    In thisst week, she had noticed that Luis was very talented. Just as or maybe even more talented than her. But even then, she felt the gap between them wasn''t much.

    When she found out he had an affinity with the Lightning attribute, which was just as rare as her Ice attribute, she felt genuinely happy.

    They practiced together, but she never felt much disparity between them. She thought they could get stronger together. But just now, she witnessed something that made her beliefs shatter.

    Luis'' movement was so fast that she couldn''t even catch it. They were in the same rank, but Luis'' speed was something she could never reach. So she wanted to know, "How did you move so fast?"

    He was silent for a moment as he gave a nce at Lumine. She just shrugged and gestured for him to do what he wants. But inwardly she hoped that Luis won''t lie to Alicia. She wanted them to build a trustful rtionship with each other so they won''t fall out because of some contradictions.

    Well, even if Luis wants to hide his powers from Alicia, she won''t say anything. After all, it''s up to them how they make their rtionship out to be.

    ''Ahh, so interesting. It''s like I''m watching a drama.'' Lumine felt she might be a bad mother who is finding his son''s troubles fun.

    Luis just gave a soft smile at Lumine''s reaction. To be honest, he expected it to turn out like this.

    Not getting any response from Luis, Alicia was a little flustered, as she quickly said, "Well, I can understand if you don''t want to tell me. It''s fine. I can understand you might want to hide your abilities."

    Although Alicia said casually, she was disappointed in her heart, as her cold expression was resurfacing on her face.

    Luis knew his one wrong move might end up bringing a lot of trouble into their rtionship. In the worst-case scenario, Alicia might lose all the trust they had built until now. She might even shut any approach from him while bing cold and distant once again and He preferred to avoid that from happening.

    As he gazed at Alicia, he said in a gentle tone, "I don''t want to hide anything from you, Alicia."

    Thinking that he was going to tell her, Alicia''s mood brightened a bit.

    Then his tone suddenly turned serious. As he said, "Listen, Alicia, what I am about to tell is a very important secret. It''s something I don''t want to be revealed to anyone."

    Feeling the seriousness of the matter, Alicia''s eyes also turned serious. ''It seems things are not as simple as having a special skill.'' She suddenly felt a little guilty about putting Luis on the spot like this.

    Unbeknownst to her thoughts, Luis continued, "But you are also an important person in my life. So I don''t want to hide it from you. I just hope you keep it a secret for me."

    Hearing this, Alicia felt a little sweet in her heart. But her curiosity was also piqued at that moment. Under her curious gaze, Luis finally revealed his secret.

    "I have a second attribute."

    *Ssh*

    Like a stone was thrown on a stillke, many ripples formed inside Alicia''s heart. She couldn''t believe what she was hearing.

    "D-Did I hear that right?"

    Seeing her disbelieving expression. Luis nodded and repeated. "Yeah, you heard me. I have a second Space attribute."

    *Boom*

    Alicia''s mind was in shambles. From his serious expression, she had expected a lot of secrets but this was on a whole another level. A second attribute, moreover Space. That is considered a legend.

    "A dual attribute?" She asked once again.

    "Yes," Luis nodded.

    "Not a mutated one?" She asked with disbelief written all over her face.

    Shaking his head, he answered, "No." Then continued. "I have two attributes, Lightning and Space."

    Alicia rubbed her temples as it was a lot to take in suddenly. Then she thought of something and asked, "That movement earlier was as well..."

    Nodding his head in affirmation, "Yeah, it was a spell, like a short-distance teleport called Spatial Jump."

 Chapter 31: The Fabled Ghost King.

    <h4>Chapter 31: The Fabled Ghost King.</h4>

    ''Everything makes sense now.'' Alicia thought and pursed her lips wryly.

    "Does that mean not only me, not even Aunty could have noticed his movement?" She said, giving a nce at Lumine. pping her forehead, she thought, ''What was I getting so worked up for then?''

    Luis closed the distance between them and said, "You understand why I wanted to hide it, right?"

    Alicia nodded her head seriously. ''If this matter was revealed, it would bring a lot of problems for Luis. Until now, only mutated attributes had been known and Luis was the first person to have dual attributes.''

    Then her eyes looked at Luis, a little moist. ''He revealed such a big secret to me. This shows how much trust he has for me.'' Thinking of her attitude just now, she felt very bad in her heart. She decided she would make up for it to Luis.

    *p*

    "It''s over, right?" When Lumine saw the drama was over, she finally spoke up. "You guys did a good job for your first dungeon run." She praised them, which made them smile.

    Then she continued, "Also, it seems you guys are also ready to break through to the next rank. Is that correct?"

    Both Luis and Alicia nodded with soft smiles on their faces.

    Before entering the dungeon, both Luis and Alicia were hovering around the peak of G rank. That is 5 stars of Rookie. After the continuous fights and the battle with the dungeon boss, they were ready for breakthroughs to F-rank, also known as the Beginner Rank. Currently, they are suppressing themselves from breaking through.

    The ranking system in this world is as such.

    G) - Rookie Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    F) - Beginner Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    E) - Novice Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    D) - Order Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    C) - Expert Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    B) - Master Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    A) - King Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    S) - Overlord Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    SS) - Transcendent Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    SSS) - Ascension Rank ( 1 to 5 stars )

    After Awakening, it goes from G as the lowest to SSS, which is Ascension Rank. Though people believe SSS rank to be the highest rank. But Luis knows it''s not. Because in the games there were many hints about entities whose strength is far higher than SSS rank. Which also gives a reason for the existence of higher ranks.

    Currently, it''s still far in the future, so Luis has a lot of time to think about it. Anyway, although Luis was excited to break through. There was still something he wanted to do before that.

    "Then let''s go back first. I''ll give you some things that will be beneficial for you at the time of breaking through," Lumine said as she took out Return Crystals from her mana bracelet.

    Seeing the expensive Return Crystal in reality, Luis thought it was good to be rich. When he yed the game in his previous life, this Crystal was very costly. So he always used it sparingly. ''Wait, it''s not the time to reminisce about that.''

    So he hurriedly said, "Wait, Mom, we haven''t taken the reward yet."

    Lumine looked at him weirdly and asked, "Do you want to keep that Red Skull as a memento?" She had already prepared rewards for them, but if Luis wanted to keep this, she could only agree. Alicia also seems to share the same thoughts as her.

    Shaking his head, he said, "Mom, that reward is not useless."

    Hearing this, Lumine raised her brow and asked. "Do you know something about it?" She believes that if Luis doesn''t know something about it, there is no way he would be so confident.

    Not answering her question, Luis first went to pick up the reward chest that appeared after defeating the boss monster. Inside it wasying a skull dyed in red blood. There were two horns on the skull, which shows the skull wasn''t that of a human.

    Under Lumine and Alicia''s curious gaze, Luis'' voice sounded. "Do you know about ''The Fable of Ghost King?''"

    Alicia had a confused expression on her face. She had read a lot of books, especially about the legends of the past, but this was her first time hearing it.

    Lumine had a thoughtful look on her face. "I think I''ve heard something about it. But I don''t think I remember."

    Luis nodded his head and exined, "Well, that''s understandable. It''s not a widely circted tale. The only ce you could read about is in the church."

    "Who was this Ghost King?" Alicia asked, not hiding her curiosity.

    "He was called the legend, who became evil to fight evil and in the end was devoured by darkness." Luis'' exnation made Alicia frown as she asked, "Then, does that mean he became evil in the end?"

    Then she rubbed her chin and mumbled, "Is it because of the ending that this fable wasn''t widely circted and was kept inside churches?"

    "Bingo!" Luis eximed, then continued. "How can they let people read story books where the heroes became evil in the end?"

    "So what does it have to do with this reward?" Lumine asked, although she was curious about the legend. She was more interested in the reason that legend is connected to this dungeon''s clear reward.

    "It''s connected," Luis uttered, then continued. "In the book, there was a story about a demon child that was saved by the Ghost King."

    "In the war between races, many legends were made, but also at the cost of many innocent lives. The demon child was also someone innocent who got involved in this war between races."

    "The vige in which he lived consisted of many races. But the war affected their mentality. Because of their anger toward the demon race, the child''s family became the outlet. All his family members were ruthlessly murdered by the vigers, and he alone was saved by a passing traveler, who waster known as the Ghost King."

    --------------------------

    Quiz Time:-

    What will happen to the demon child?

    1) He will be stronger and take revenge on the vigers.

    2) He will die at Ghost King''s hand.

    3) He will forgive the vigers and move on.

    4) He will be the Ghost King''s pupil.

    5) He will still die because of the war.

    6) None of the above.

 Chapter 32: Darkenes

    <h4>Chapter 32: Darkenes</h4>

    Alicia and Lumine were at a loss for words at this moment. Alicia had never met a demon, but she had seen humans doing even more heinous acts than a demon could. So she felt pity for the demon child whose family was killed.

    As for Lumine, she had no good feelings towards demons. She had only fought demons, and they were all evil hideous monsters who massacre without blinking. So it was hard for her to empathize with the demon child.

    "So, how is it rted to this dungeon?" Lumine asked.

    Instead of directly answering her question, Luis continued with the story.

    "Witnessing the Ghost King''s powers, the demon child who wanted to take revenge against the vigers, begged the Ghost King to take him as his pupil."

    "Did he ept?" Alicia asked.

    "He rejected without hesitation. Well, the Ghost King had his reasons. But the demon child didn''t give up. He continued following the Ghost King on his journey and hoped to get his approval. The more time he spent following the Ghost King, the more he firmly believed in his choice."

    "In their journey, maybe because of the Ghost King''s influence but, slowly, the demon child''s personality was also affected. The kindness and the great deeds of the Ghost King made his resolution for revenge waver." When Luis said this, he saw Alicia''s expression wasn''t good.

    He knew she startedparing her situation to the demon child''s. Sighing, he went close to her. While gently patting her head, he said, "It doesn''t matter what choice he made. We have to make our choice based on our own judgment, not just following someone else''s footsteps." Getting closer to her left ear, he whispered, "So, don''t think too much, understand?"

    She softly nodded her head. Not sure if it was because of his words or his gentle patting, but Alicia''s mood improved a lot.

    "So anyway, after some time they were together, an incident happened," Luis said with a serious expression.

    "The vige they were passing by had a dungeon outbreak. The Ghost King decided to save the vigers and the demon child also followed his steps in helping those vigers."

    "The demon child wasn''t good atbat, so he helped the injured and other people vacate. He didn''t care about his resentment towards other species. His only thoughts at that time were to save as many people as he could."

    "The Ghost King solved the monsters which came outside in the dungeon break. Witnessing the actions of the demon child, the Ghost King promised him that once he returns after clearing the monsters inside the dungeon, he will take him as his disciple. The demon child was delighted that his efforts and goodwill were rewarded. He started helping the vigers even more enthusiastically. Well, he was a child, so there were only limited things he could do."

    "Leaving the enthusiastic demon child to help out the vigers. The Ghost King went inside the dungeon to solve the outbreak." Luis paused and took a deep breath as he continued.

    "When he returned, looking forward to starting the training of his new disciple, what he met wasn''t his new disciple. But his severed head, which was hung at the center of the vige." Luis paused as he saw Alicia and Lumine''s expressions. Alicia was very angry and frustrated and even Lumine, who didn''t like demons, couldn''t help but get angry.

    *Sigh*

    He continued, "When the crisis was resolved and they found themselves out of danger, the vigers he helped let out their frustration on the demon child and finally killed him because of their resentment towards demons."

    "..." Alicia and Lumine were silent, as they couldn''t believe how ungrateful those vigers were. Both of them felt pity for the demon child.

    Looking at their expressions, he said, "Stop thinking about it too much. It''s something that happened a long time ago. Millions of innocent people have already died. If you count as a whole, billions of people had already died before the great war. There''s nothing we can do about them."

    His words made theme to their senses. That''s right. There is no point in thinking about it. They can''t change anything. Taking deep breaths and calming their hearts down, they looked at Luis seriously. They wanted to know what did the Ghost King do after that, so they waited for Luis to continue.

    But instead of continuing, Luis revealed something even more shocking. Holding the Red Skull in his hand, he said, "This Red Skull here represents the head of that demon child."

    After their initial shock, Lumine muttered, "So that''s how it''s connected to this dungeon."

    "What''s its use, Luis?" Alicia asked the important question. Although they found out how is it rted but how will they use that skull which has no magical properties? It is not even the real skull. At least the demon head could be used for mage craft and such, but this is just an imitation.

    Luis smirked and said, "This thing is the key to obtain the Ghost King''s legacy."

    Both their pupils dted. Not caring about their response, Luis pressed his thumb on the sharp horn and rubbed his blood lightly on the Red Skull.

    "O the hero, who purged evil. Thou, who stood against the ''Army of Chaos'' and fought with the ''Fragments of Destruction''. I want to prove myself worthy andplete your tests."

    Then under Lumine and Alicia''s dazed expressions. He broke both the horns of the skull.

    *Crack* x2

    As soon as the horns broke, the ground started shaking. Cracks formed on the ground. This snapped Lumine and Alicia out of their daze. Lumine immediately shed from her spot. Grabbing Luis and Alicia, she jumped. With her skill, they stood in midair as she asked, "Luis, what''s going on?"

    It wasn''t just the ground, but the whole dungeon was shaking. All the monsters in the dungeon disintegrated.

    "The Hidden pathway is opening." He uttered.

    "Hidden path?" Lumine and Alicia looked at Luis, astounded.

    In a short time, the quaking stopped, and the dust on the ground started to recede. A staircase that went into the ground appeared in the center of the ce where Luis and Alicia shed with the Skeleton Knight.

    Lumine''s eyes widened as she gave a nce to Luis. Pointing her fingers, she asked for confirmation. "Is that?"

    Nodding his head in confirmation, he replied, "Yes, that''s the hidden passage I''m talking about."

    With a smirk on his face and excitement in his eyes, he continued.

    "Here lies the Legacy of Darkenes, the ruler of souls, also referred to as the Legendary Ghost King."

 Chapter 33: A D-Rank!

    <h4>Chapter 33: A D-Rank!</h4>

    As they started descending the stairway, Lumine couldn''t help but ask. "How did you find out the mystery behind the Red Skull?"

    They had taken the Red Skull to many researchers and experts, but none of them found anything special about it. So how could Luis, who just took a nce, be so confident?

    ''Because I have yed this route in-game. There''s no way I can say that.'' Sighing, Luis found an excuse. While shrugging, he answered vaguely. "Well, there were some records I came across."

    "In the records, the Ghost King left his legacy before his final battle. After the death of the demon child, he didn''t take any disciple and decided to leave his legacy for the future generation. But only if the sessor is worthy."

    "So, no one has found it yet?" Alicia asked curiously. If what Luis said is correct, it''s been many centuries since the era of the Ghost King. How could there be no sessor until now?

    Shaking his head, he answered, "Of course, there were a few lucky ones in history who took the trial. But anyone has yet to seed in iming his legacy."

    While Lumine had some doubts, she didn''t probe much into it. Alicia nodded her head in understanding. She had a lot of questions regarding the legacy and the legend, but before she could ask anything else; the stairs came to an end.

    It was a small tunnel in front, and the green gooey liquid in the corner of the walls gave off a creepy feeling. Alicia and Lumine both made disgusted expressions. But Luis, who knew the usefulness of the substance, immediately took out the emptied mana potion bottles and started filling them with that green liquid.

    "Hey Luis, what is that thing? That smells disgusting." Alicia, who even managed to handle the rotten smell of zombies'' corpses, was pinching her nose tightly. Lumine also had a frown on her face. She wasn''t familiar with that liquid.

    Luis didn''t intend to exin everything now. So he vaguely answered, "Although it smells bad. It''s very useful to me."

    Filling the used bottles full of unknown green liquid, Luis opened his Pocket Space and kept them inside.

    "Let''s start moving." With those words, Luis left.

    Alicia and Lumine looked at each other and then followed him.

    At the end of the tunnel, a breathtaking view appeared in front of them. A vast Colosseum that gave off an ancient feeling, surrounded by torches ignited by green mes. It gave a dreadful aura of many warriors died here.

    Lumine''s eyes were wide open as she looked around vigntly. While keeping her guard up, she asked Luis, "Did you already know about this ce or the trial that you may face here?"

    She had a feeling that Luis had a lot of knowledge about this. So she decided to ask him.

    Nodding his head, he said, "Yes, I know."

    A small smile appeared on her face. Thinking how dependable and smart her son had be, she couldn''t express her happiness.

    Lumine used her skill to scan the surrounding and asked, "Are you sure you want to take this trial, Luis? It may be something very dangerous. Are you confident?"

    She didn''t mean to denounce him, but let him understand the dangers that he might face. So he can''t be careless.

    Lumine knew about his wish to be the strongest and for that to happen. He will have to face a lot of challenges and she, as his mother, can''t always protect him. She is only responsible for guiding him and not let him die.

    Luis reassured her. "Don''t worry, it''s fine." Waving his hand, his eyes wandered around the Colosseum.

    ''As soon as I take a step on the stage, the first trial will begin.'' With that thought in mind and under Lumine and Alicia''s anticipating eyes, he didn''t enter the stage. Rather, he started walking around the stage.

    "Where are you going, Luis?" Alicia asked.

    Luis pointed at the torches and said, "These torches can burn eternally and these green mes never extinguish. Isn''t that amazing?"

    With a gleam in his eyes, he walked around collecting those torches and put them inside his Pocket Space. Lumine and Alicia didn''t understand why was he collecting them now. He could have done that after the trial. Looking at their expression he knew what they were thinking. But he had no intention of exining.

    As per the second game, the Ghost King''s legacy is divided into many parts and so is his ability and treasures. This was called a tutorial dungeon or rather the first dungeon the yers enter after starting the second game. Luis was very excited to get this power-up. This was just the first part of the legacy which was also the start of Ghost King legacy route.

    ''But to do that, I need to defeat ''that'' thing.'' Luis'' calm eyes gazed at the cylindrical stage and stated, "Just stay here and let me finish the trial."

    "I-I... Yes." Alicia hesitated, but nodded, nheless. Although she wasn''t interested inpeting with Luis for the legacy but she wanted to fight alongside him.

    When Luis was about to set foot on the stage, Lumine beside him reminded, "If you think you are in danger, just give a signal. I''ll take you out."

    Nodding his head, Luis stepped onto the stage. It was like an illusion, but dark mist suddenly surrounded the arena and a transparent barrier covered the entire stage.

    "What?" Lumine was surprised. Without wasting a second, she tried to enter the stage and pull Luis out. But she was blocked by a transparent wall.

    "What is this?" Her expression changed, and she shouted frantically. "LUIS!! LUIS!!"

    *tter*

    A ttering sound echoed in the surroundings, which made her shut up, as she looked up at the sky vigntly. A momentter, she saw something falling from the sky and heard the sound of something cutting through the air.

    *Boom*

    With a loud thundering boom, something fell from the sky, and a crackling sound was heard. In front of them appeared a giant humanoid skeleton of about 5 meters, creating arge crater in the middle of the arena. Green mes burned inside his hollow eye sockets and his protruding ribs.

    "It''s a D-rank Giant Skeleton!" Lumine eximed in shock. The thought of Luis, who was at the peak of G rank facing a D-rank monster, made her horrified.

 Chapter 34: Test of Heart.

    <h4>Chapter 34: Test of Heart.</h4>

    Lumine tried to rush in but was blocked by the barrier. "Damn it! Why can''t I break in?" She tried using her most powerful skills, but it didn''t even leave a scratch.

    She felt a deep sense of powerlessness at this moment. Her son was in danger and she can''t help him. Her panicked mind started thinking of different ways to save him.

    Alicia also became worried looking at the Giant Skeleton monster. ''This is bad. Luis is in danger.''

    "Calm down." While they were still worried, a deep, calm voice echoed, making their hearts tremble.

    Luis waved his hand and said, "Trust me. Everything''s fine."

    He gave a big smirk and dered, "Just sit tight and watch my handsome moves as I crush this thing."

    His confident words calmed them down. But Luis could still see the worried expression on their faces.

    With a slight grin, he shifted his focus to the Giant Skeleton Monster in front of him.

    ''Sure enough, he came.'' Luis thought inwardly.

    *Graaaoow*

    The monster roared, sending small shockwaves in the air. Luis'' hair fluttered because of the wind from shockwaves. Suddenly it stood tall and the green mes burning in his hollow eyes gazed deeply at Luis.

    Any normal person in Luis'' position would have been terrified, looking at the Giant Skeleton in front of him.

    It emitted some kind of pressure, but Luis stood there unmoved. He only had an expectant look on his face.

    Then suddenly a hoarse voice echoed inside the arena, startling Lumine and Alicia but making Luis excited.

    {Are you the one who came to challenge the Legacy trial?}

    "Yes," Luis answered with a big smirk on his face.

    ''Sure enough, it''s the same.'' Luis smiled, thinking of the simrities to the game.

    {In that case [Challenger], I shall give you three tests. Once you pass them, you will receive the piece of legacy. Are you ready?} The voice asked.

    "Yes, I am ready," Luis answered.

    Lumine and Alicia perked their ears hearing the mysterious voice which came out of nowhere. But what surprised them even more was that after roaring hard, the Giant Skeleton just stood still without attacking Luis.

    ''This legacy is not simple.'' Lumine thought grimly. Even with all her scouting skills, she couldn''t find the source of this voice.

    Alicia just gulped nervously on behalf of Luis and looked over worriedly.

    While they were still thinking, the mysterious voice sounded again.

    {The first test shall be the test of your [Heart].}

    Luis nodded his head, thinking, ''This was the test where the protagonist''s sad past was revealed.''

    {In this test, you will despair and wish you were dead. Let''s see if you can break it.} The mysterious voice said. The tone sounded a little excited.

    Luis passively looked around and a momentter his sharp eyes became blurred. They seemed a little unfocused and the next moment the voice said, {The test has begun.}

    ***

    Luis opened his eyes and found himself falling from the sky. Even when he found the ground approaching closer, there was no panicked expression on his face.

    He just thought, ''This illusion is so fake.''

    There was no wind pressure when he was falling from the sky. He calmly waited and in a few seconds, he crashed to the ground.

    Extreme pain assaulted his body. ''At least the pain is real. But it''s not much.''

    His body recovered and the next moment he found himself above a volcano and his body fell on theva. There was no change in his expression.

    This continued several times and in a variety of ways. Car ident, getting stabbed, cut in pieces.

    ''Now, what will it be next? Drowning in the Sea? ne crash? Poison?'' Luis opened his eyes and found himself nowhere. It was dark everywhere. The only thing he could see was his body.

    ''Is this space? No, I have no trouble breathing and there''s no or stars or anything. It''s just like a... void.''

    Luis just floated there, and even if he tried moving his body, there was no point. He didn''t feel like he was going anywhere.

    ''Was this meant to make me despair?'' Luis thought back to how it went inside the game.

    In the game, when the yers took this test, the past of the second protagonist was revealed, and there were no experiences like the ones Luis had.

    ''Is this the difference between the real life and the game?'' Luis wasn''t much surprised as he had already expected this. He was only counting on the game''s knowledge to work in the proper direction by obtaining the maximum benefits for himself.

    The game''s knowledge was nothing but a tool to help him achieve his goal of bing the strongest sooner. It was never a guide that he was going to follow blindly. Cause he knew this world was simr but still a real one. The characters and NPCs are all real people and they are not programmed to act the same as in the game.

    ''Anyway, how long am I supposed to stay here?''

    ''Is it to make me feel lonely or to scare me in this eternal darkness?'' Luis couldn''t feel anything like that. Instead, he had a familiar feeling, as if this was something he had experienced before for a very long time.

    ''What is this weird feeling?''

    Luis found many negative emotions emerging inside him. Which told him that he will lose everything, his family, his friends, money, status, love, and even his dreams.

    ''Is this to make me despair?'' Although those emotions made him sad, that was it. They could never break him.

    ''I''ve already experienced death twice and just a week of living this new life can''t make me feel despair about losing it.''

    Shaking his head, Luis thought, ''This illusion was insignificant. There were a lot of loopholes. It couldn''t even attack my mentality. I could create a far better illusion in the future.''

    ''I think the Ghost King wasn''t much proficient in making illusions.'' Luis came to this conclusion after his experience.

    *Crack*

    Luis saw a white crack open in the space and the next moment, like a mirror was broken, the illusion shattered in pieces.

    Opening his eyes, he found himself back in the arena.

    {Congrattions! You have passed the first test [Challenger].} The Voice said.

    -------------------------

    Quiz Time:-

    Why do you think Luis found the Void familiar?

    1) It''s something rted to his Space talent.

    2) It is rted to Ethan''s death.

    3) Because of his Illusion talent.

    4) None of the above.

 Chapter 35: The Second Test

    <h4>Chapter 35: The Second Test</h4>

    There wasn''t much excitement on Luis'' face. He turned to Lumine and asked. "How much time has passed?"

    "Around 3 minutes," Lumine replied with a smile. When she heard the mysterious voice say that Luis would despair, she was worried. But looking at him, it seems he is alright.

    Luis nodded and turned his focus on listening to the mysterious voice again.

    {You have stood bravely and didn''t let your mind get broken. You even broke the illusion, which may even break down people with the strongest of hearts. Good work [Challenger].} The mysterious voice sounded very excited and happy with Luis'' performance.

    {For passing the first test, a reward is given to the [Challenger].}

    Luis'' eyes shone brilliance as he expectantly waited for the voice to continue. ''It should be that, right?''

    As if answering to his doubts, the mysterious voice said.

    {It''s a skillbook called Mental Fortitude (A)}

    The next moment, a green light fell from the sky, easily passing through the barrier and stopping in front of Luis. A dark green book appeared, floating in front of him.

    Getting the reward he wanted, Luis excitedly touched the book and channeled his mana. The book disappeared and a green light entered his body.

    Luis felt that his mind was suddenly refreshed and his heart became calmer. ''Are these the effects of this skill?''

    In the second game, this Mental Fortitude skill''s use was that the yer had resistance towards fear status and thebat ability won''t decrease even in the critical condition, with some resistance to debuffs, and mind attacks. Also, the decrease in fighting abilities due to poison, paralysis, or other debuffs was a little restrained. As per the true nature of this skill, it could never be used thoroughly.

    Inside the game, it was just an auxiliary skill with some benefits. But in real life, this skill is priceless.

    In a game, the yer controls the character, so the character''s mental condition doesn''t affect the gamey much.

    But in the real-world things are different, facing those dangerous enemies with powers to bring cmities. Having a calm heart and being able to analyze that dangerous situation is very important.

    Luis knew there would be many benefits to this skill that weren''t mentioned in the game, which he will slowly discover. He knew this skill was indispensable for him.

    Seeing that, Luis was done using the skillbook. The voice sounded again.

    {Now the [Challenger] gets ready for the second test.}

    Without any exnation, the voice announced. {Let''s begin.}

    And the next moment, Luis disappeared from the arena.

    This time Lumine panicked. Although she knew this was something rted to the test. But not being able to see Luis made her heart restless.

    "What should I do?" She mumbled.

    Alicia beside her thought of something and shouted. "Can we watch the Challengers test? Isn''t it better to have an audience?"

    Lumine looked at Alicia, surprised. She didn''t expect her toe up with something like this. But even after waiting for some time, there was no response.

    Her eyes became dull in dismay. But the next moment, a huge screen appeared in the middle of the arena.

    "It''s Luis."

    Alicia smiled with a soft sigh, while Lumine''s heart rxed a little.

    On the screen, they could see Luis taking the test. But the next moment screen shifted and the contents of the screen made them gulp in horror.

    "Is that real?" Alicia mumbled with a disbelieving expression.

    "I think so." Lumine nodded and, with a serious expression, uttered. "They are evil spirits."

    ***

    Opening his eyes, Luis once again found himself in an unfamiliar ce. A creepy mansion in front of him stood tall with dark surroundings and dim light.

    The deserted mansion with no presence of life made his scalp tingle. Fortunately, his vision adjusted itself to the surroundings and gradually he had no trouble seeing in the dark.

    ''Thanks, Dad.'' Luis thought gratefully. If he didn''t have the [Perception] Skill things would have been troublesome.

    This time he was certain it wasn''t an illusion, rather he was teleported somewhere.

    Luis looked around, and outside the perimeter of the mansion, there was nothing. Only darkness. He wasn''t sure if it was rted to the Darkness element or not. But the repelling force made him certain he can''t go outside.

    Shifting his focus on the creepy, dpidated mansion in front of him, Luis made his move.

    As he got closer to the mansion, he found a few dark shadowy figures moving around the mansion, curious about the unfamiliar entity that approaching them.

    Soon he heard the mysterious voice speaking to him.

    {The second test has begun. Purify all the evil spirits and source behind that evil energy.}

    Normally in the game, the protagonist had Holy Magic with him. Because of that, he wasn''t affected by the evil spirits and easily cleared the test by purifying them.

    But Luis doesn''t have Holy Magic in his arsenal. Furthermore, the requirement for clearing this test is not to eliminate the evil spirits, but to purify them.

    It was unfair to him. But Luis had a slight smile on his face as he thought, ''Fortunately, the test is the same.''

    Luis took out a torch burning with the green me from inside his Pocket Space. As soon as the torch was taken out, the chill Luis was feeling decreased and his tensed nerves rxed. All the shadowy figures escaped.

    ''Now I won''t be affected by the evil spirits.'' Luis thought as he approached the mansion.

    Entering the mansion, and with his Perception, he found an evil spirit in no time. The evil spiritunched a dark energy attack at Luis. His nerves tensed, but the next moment, the dark energy was sucked into the green me. Not harming him in the slightest.

    Luis smiled and saw that the evil spirit was ready to escape. He immediately rushed and threw that torch at the evil spirit.

    The evil spirit screamed, burning in green mes and at the next moment, only a white shadow was left, which slowly disappeared from his sight.

    Luis picked up the torch and smiled cheekily. "So what if I don''t have Holy Magic? I''ll use Ghost Fire."

 Chapter 36: Ghost Fire

    <h4>Chapter 36: Ghost Fire</h4>

    Lumine and Alicia, who were watching Luis'' test through the screen, had anxious expressions on their faces.

    But when they saw Luis using the torch he collected before to purify the evil spirit, they were both surprised and relieved.

    Alicia turned to Lumine and asked, "Aunty, is Ghost Fire a mutated element?"

    Lumine shifted her focus to Alicia and replied, "I think so."

    "Does it have simr properties to Holy mes? Ghost Fire can also purify evil spirits?" Alicia asked thoughtfully.

    Lumine shook her head and answered Alicia''s query.

    "No, Holy mes can purify the evil energy and even eradicate it. But Ghost Fire is different, rather than ''Purify''. A proper term should be ''Refine''. Ghost Fire refines the evil energy and thus gives a simr effect."

    It was Lumine''s first time seeing this element, but based on some clues and her years of experience, she could easily conclude these details.

    Alice nodded her head in understanding. But she had other questions in mind. ''When did Luis discover this element? Was this information in the records of Ghost King?''

    She became even more interested in the fable.

    ***

    Only in theter stages of the game, it was discovered that the torches inside the tutorial dungeon were all burning with Ghost Fire. This made Luis wonder if the protagonist had no Holy Magic on him. Would this method have worked?

    The answer was it should have becauseter in the game, other candidates for the legacy were also discovered who had no Holy Magic on them. So Luis thought this method should have been feasible, and it worked.

    Luis passed through many rooms and purified some evil spirits on his way. The mansion''s condition wasn''t good. Instead of blindly moving around the mansion. Luis moved around based on his game knowledge.

    Soon he found himself inside a luxurious bedroom, which was not in a very bad statepared to other rooms.

    ''This is it, the Master''s bedroom.''

    With that thought, Luis searched through the whole room and found a key and an envelope inside a drawer.

    Finding what he was searching for, Luis immediately opened the envelope, wondering if the contents were the same or whether there were some variables.

    Inside the envelope was a letter, which he flipped open. The writing was readable, but it seemed to be written in red ink, which Luis was sure was the blood of the writer.

    [Date: 10/02/360

    Master Jeremy, as per your orders, I''ve forbidden all the servants from leaving the mansion. But it''s been a month since we have been following his order. Are we allowed to leave now? Can you give us further instructions? If possible, please provide us with rations. Only a week''s worth of ration is left...]

    ''It''s the same,'' thinking of this, a sad smile appeared on Luis'' face.

    He sighed and burned the letter with the torch he was holding.

    With the sizzling sound of paper burning, Luis saw the blood which was used as ink formed a strange pattern and shiny mystical dust-like light appeared passing to another room.

    Following the shiny dust, he entered another room. It was a in room with no luxury sense. The room was suitable to make people feel morefortable.

    He took out the key and put it inside the key holder, opening the simr drawer which he found before.

    Inside it was another envelope and a key. Luis took out the letter and read it.

    [Date: 20/02/360

    Master Jeremy, it''s been two days since we are out of ration. All the servants inside the mansion are hungry. We request for the ration to be provided as soon as possible.....]

    Luis once again burned the letter and followed the shiny dust that appeared. On his way, he once again came across a few evil spirits whom he solved easily by relying on the Ghost Fire.

    This time, he entered a study where the furniture was mostly broken. But ignoring it, he calmly sat on the chair, which was in normal condition. He saw a keyhole on the desk in front of him. He calmly inserted the key and clicked it open. Inside it was another letter and a brown box with a six-digit number lock.

    Luis read the contents of the letter.

    [Date: 25/02/360

    Master, seven servants died of hunger, and the guards outside the mansion killed three servants who tried to leave. When are you going to respond?...]

    Luis skimmed through it, and once again burned the letter.

    As soon as he did, a ck shadowy figure appeared in front of him. It was an evil spirit that took a humanoid shape.

    Luis was creeped out, but he kept his thoughts to himself and sat calmly. The evil spirit slowly opened his hideous mouth and said in a bone-chilling voice.

    "Master, is that you?"

    Luis thought back to the game and there were choices to select in this conversation, but in real life, no information was given. No wonder only a few people in the history could pass this test. ''I wonder how the protagonist would have aplished it in the real world?''

    "Master?" the evil spirit called again.

    ''But if I follow the game''s conversation, I will have to solve the mystery of this case. It''s too troublesome.'' Thinking of this an idea came to his mind.

    Suddenly Luis'' whole temperament changed, and he gave off a noble aura. Performer talent is active.

    "How dare a lowly servant question me?" Luis said in a deep voice, full of authority. Not giving a direct answer.

    The evil spirit trembled and bowed down, apologizing. "Forgive me, my lord, it''s just butler Fin is searching for you."

    Seeing his performance work, Luis smirked. In the original game based on the answer, you would have to prove whether you are their master Jeremy or not. It''s too troublesome. Moreover,pleting this story will take some time, but with Luis'' acting skills, he might save himself from unnecessary trouble.

    "Bring him to see me," Luis said in a voice full of authority.

 Chapter 37: Enhanced Recovery

    <h4>Chapter 37: Enhanced Recovery</h4>

    "Yes, Master." With Luis'' order, the evil spirit vanished, and the next moment appeared with another evil spirit beside him.

    "Greetings Master. Ie to request you-" Before the evil spirit named Fin could put forth his request and let Luis follow the original story.

    Luis gave a disdainful look and stopped him. "Did I allow you to speak?" His deep voice made Fin shake in terror.

    "Master, I-I.." Evil spirit Fin shuttered.

    Luis waved his hand with an annoyed expression on his face. "I don''t want to hear your nonsense. Bring me the letter sent by Lady Philip."

    Hismanding tone made Fin and the other evil spirit shiver. From Luis'' performance, they had alreadye to believe that the person in front of them was their master.

    "Th-That.."

    But Fin doesn''t seem like he wants Luis to read that letter.

    "Ha," Luis gave a mockingugh and continued. "You don''t dare to?"

    "Master... I.."

    "Enough!" Luis raised his hand and snapped. "I don''t want to hear any more nonsense. You lowly servants went against my orders and even sent a letter to Lady Philipining about my actions."

    "Did your peasant blood be so daring?" Luis shouted in rage.

    It seems Fin''s mentality was also broken at that moment. He snapped back. "Because of your order, so many of us died of hunger or were killed by the guards you stationed when they tried to escape."

    If he were a human, he would have been so miserable. But unfortunately, Luis could only see a ck shadow shouting aggrievedly.

    "What did we do wrong? We just supported your elder brother as the sessor because at your hands we would have just be human experiments for your evil practices."

    Luis saw the ck shadow tremble.

    "But you instigated to kill your elder brother and didn''t allow any of us to leave this mansion. Lady Philip had already revealed to us your true face long ago."

    Fin shouted in frustration.

    There was silence in the room for a moment, then Luis'' heavy voice sounded.

    "As I suspected, you were aware of it."

    Luis'' grim tone made both of them afraid. "Go and gather all the servants in the hall."

    "Master, I beg you, please."

    The other evil spirit wanted to protest, but with a wave of his hand, Luis gave his ultimatum.

    "Do I need to repeat myself?"

    Fin was already on the verge of tears by the time they left. That''s what Luis assumed because he can''t figure out the emotions of a shadow like evil spirit.

    Watching the evil spirits vanish, Luis let out a deep sigh. "Phew, that was scary."

    "I can''t believe such nonsense worked." Luis couldn''t help but smirk, thinking of his performance a moment ago.

    ''My performer''s talent is too terrifying, isn''t it? In the game, we needed to find out all the clues to get their trust, but I skipped all that.''

    Luis took out the box with the number lock and calmly unlocked it with the password he already knew.

    ''The password is simple. It''s just the date of all the letters.''

    "So, one, zero, two, zero, two, five, and *Click* done," Luis eximed with a slight smile.

    Inside the box was a strange pendant and a note. Luis didn''t touch the pendant directly. Instead, he read the note first.

    The note was written to Jeremy. It said that Jeremy''s elder brother betrayed him and colluded with the demons to be the sessor.

    Jeremy set up a magic barrier around the mansion to stop the demons from entering the estate, but Lady Philip, who was Jeremy''s ex-fiancee and then became the wife of his brother, was a half-demon. She sent a cursed pendant to the mansion in the name of Jeremy as a gift when he was not here.

    She kept all the servants as hostages inside the mansion and threatened Jeremy, who wanted to reveal everything to the Holy Knights. Because of the curse from the pendant, all the servants inside the mansion were affected and slowly died. Jeremy, who couldn''t save anyone, was helpless and died at the hands of his brother.

    Because of the effect of the cursed pendant and their vengeance against Jeremy, which Philip instilled inside their hearts, all the servants who died inside the mansion became evil spirits.

    ''I don''t need to follow this story. Let''s just end this.'' Luis held the torch to the cursed pendant, and it was set aze by Ghost Fire.

    The green me came into contact with the pendant and red up intensely. Covering the entire pendant, the Ghost Fire burned rapidly, refining all the evil energy inside the cursed item.

    It didn''t take long for the cursed item to be refined under the zing Ghost Fire. He immediately used Pocket Space and put it inside while it was still burning.

    {Congrattions! You have eliminated the source of evil energy inside the mansion.}

    As the mysterious voice sounded, Luis muttered under his breath. "Now let''s deal with all the evil spirits."

    For the next few minutes, Luis worked hard to burn the entire mansion down. Watching the scene from a distance as the whole mansion burn under the green mes of Ghost Fire. An unknown sense of excitement emerged inside Luis, which he was unaware of.

    Just like that, all the evil spirits were also refined under the zing Ghost Fire.

    Luis felt his vision blur, and the next moment, he found himself back at the arena.

    {Congrattions! You have passed the second test [Challenger].}

    {For passing the second test, a reward is given to the [Challenger].}

    {It''s a skillbook called Enhanced Recovery (D).}

    Once again, a green light fell from the sky and a skillbook appeared in front of him. Without wasting any time, Luis activated his mana and learned the skill. Because the final challenge was here.

    {Now the [Challenger] will face the final test.}

    {Defeat the Giant Skeleton soldier or Survive for 5 minutes.}

    "Luis," Hearing the requirement for the test, Lumine and Alicia panicked.

    "Don''t worry, it''s fine," Luis said with a slight wave of his hand. "I''ve been waiting for this."

    {Let''s Begin}

    *GRAWAAAOO*

 Chapter 38: Fighting a D-Rank!!

    <h4>Chapter 38: Fighting a D-Rank!!</h4>

    Normally a G-rank awakened fighting against a D-rank monster is akin to suicide. Not even an average E-rank awakened would dare to face a D-rank monster alone. In the face of such a dangerous enemy, even survival is a difficult option.

    But Luis, who should be focused on surviving for 5 minutes to pass the test, had different thoughts. He wanted to defeat the monster in front of him, moreover within the time constraint.

    It was a lunatic thought, to be honest. As a G-rank, defeating a D-rank monster is usually impossible. Unless you have some special means.

    ''I think I can do it.'' Luis thought inwardly as a confident smile appeared on his handsome face. He didn''t seem like he was facing an enemy way above his level, but more like everything was in his calction.

    It was the effect of Mental Fortitude. With his knowledge of the game and the fighting pattern of the Giant Skeleton plus his strength, he had enough confidence in defeating it.

    The Giant Skeleton didn''t waste any more time opening his big mouth and screamed at the top of his ribs. Sending shockwaves.

    Luis kept his foothold stable and didn''t lose his focus.

    Lumine and Alicia looked at him worriedly. But didn''t dare disturb him in case he lose his focus and get hurt.

    "Aunty, will Luis be alright?" Alicia asked worriedly.

    "As long as he doesn''t lose focus and keep maintaining distance, surviving for 5 minutes shouldn''t be a problem for him." Lumine said with a grim expression.

    Only if Lumine knew that Luis had no such thoughts. He didn''t want to just survive; he wanted to crush that monster.

    The monster swung his big skeletal fist at Luis. If such an attack hits him, Luis won''t be in any condition to fight or, in the worse case, may even die.

    But Luis, with his Mental Fortitude was extremely calm. He analyzed the attack, and with a slight roll to the left, easily dodge the punch.

    *Crash*

    The punch heavily crashed into the arena and made a small crater.

    "Damn, that''s some insane power." Luis couldn''t help but curse.

    In the game, it didn''t feel like much, but in reality; it scared him shitless. ''Fortunately, with my skill and talent, I didn''t lose my nerves.''

    The Giant skeleton had a simple attack pattern. Direct punches and kicks and hammering the ground with both skeletal hands, creating a mini earthquake.

    Luis started preparing his Thunder Javelin spell, but the amount of mana used was far more than before. For the first attack, he was preparing a spell with 50% of his mana input.

    While preparing that, he kept dodging the barrage of punches and kicksunched by the Giant Skeleton.

    *Boom*

    *Boom*

    *Bang*

    *Bang*

    ''Just a little more.'' Luis thought as he felt the spell was almost ready.

    It seemed the Giant Skeleton also noticed something wrong, which made him stop. He raised both his giant hands high in the air, which made Luis certain that the special attack wasing.

    ''It''s here.'' Luis'' eyes became sharp.

    As soon as both giant skeleton hands were about to hammer the ground, sending shockwaves, creating a mini earthquake. Luis immediately used his spell.

    "Spatial Jump."

    And vanished instantly.

    The ground where he stood cracked open, and the rubble shot out, with enough power to crush him.

    Before the Giant could notice that his attack was dodged. Luis appeared at the top of his skull with a Thunder Javelin in his hands.

    *Zzzt*

    The spell made at the 50% cost of his mana was something way beyond his level.

    Luisunched it in such proximity that the monster had no way of defending itself.

    As the Javelin hit the skull. The monster fell to his knees, and then his skeletal giant body crashed into the ground.

    "Spatial Jump."

    Luis immediately made some distance while chugging down high-grade mana potions.

    He immediately prepared another spell with 70% mana input. This time, he didn''t have to dodge attacks while preparing the spell, so it didn''t take long.

    By the time the monster stood up. Luis already closed the distance with Spatial Jump and send another shot of Thunder Javelin to the monster''s skull face.

    *Boom*

    The Giant fell on his cyx and roared.

    *GRAAWOOO*

    ''I can''t waste any time, nor can I give any chance for it to attack.''

    Now the battle was in Luis'' hands, as long as he didn''t give the monster any more chances. He can keep attacking before the timer ends.

    Luis chugged down another high-grade mana potion as he saw a giant skeletal hand mming at him. Without any panic, he prepared the spell with 60% input this time.

    When the giant metacarpal bones (hand) were about to crush him. Luis used spatial jump and vanished.

    *Boom*

    The skeletal hands crashed and only the dust rose and the rubble got crushed.

    Luis was now standing on the ribs of the Giant Skeleton who was lying on the ground.

    The monster made a move and jumped up. Luis lost his footing, but the spell was ready. In mid-air, heunched another Thunder Javelin, which hit squarely at the frontal area of the skull and directly made a hole.

    "Spatial Jump."

    Luis appeared on the ground and saw the monster stagger and fell on his knees.

    ''Just only more attack may be enough.'' Luis thought, looking at the giant''s condition.

    ''I hope I make it in time.'' Luis knew the five minutes were about to end. So he didn''t waste any time and took out two bottles of High-grade Mana potions and chugged them down.

    While doing that, he prepared another attack but with 90% mana input. As he only had one opportunity to attack. He wanted to increase the output damage.

    As the mana input was more, the spell took some time to prepare and the Giant Skeleton also felt the threat.

    This time, he made a special move and condensed all the ghost energy inside his ribs tounch a powerful attack.

    Luis felt something was amiss. ''This spell wasn''t in-game. Is this the difference in reality?''

 Chapter 39: Akasha’s Necklace.

    <h4>Chapter 39: Akasha''s Ne.</h4>

    Fortunately, with his Mental Fortitude, this surprise didn''t shake him.

    High-density green mes wereunched from the Giant Skeleton''s mouth, covering a wide area of 8 meters.

    Luis'' spell was almost ready.

    Just when the mes were about to devour him. Luis used Spatial Jump and vanished, dodging the mes with a hair''s breadth and then appeared in mid-air directly in front of the giant monster. Then with a wave of his hand, heunched the most powerful Thunder Javelin he had prepared until now.

    A Thunder Javelin condensed with a high-density lightning element and 90% of Luis'' mana shot like a bullet and sted the ribcage of the Giant Skeleton, making a gaping hole in the middle.

    It was an attack surpassing all of Luis'' previous spells. Ensuring far more damage than all his previous attacks.

    The Giant Skeleton fell to the ground with a loud bang. But Luis had no way to confirm whether it was defeated or not.

    Luisy on the ground with burn marks all over his body. It seemed that he didn''t manage to escape the mespletely and suffered some damage.

    ''I don''t have any mana left.'' Luis felt his entire body was numb. He couldn''t even feel the pain of the burns at this moment.

    Slowly, he moved his hand and activated his mana bracelet to take out a high-grade mana potion from inside.

    He didn''t even have enough mana to open his Pocket Space.

    *Augh*

    *Gulp* *Gulp*

    As he poured the mana potion into his mouth and gulp down the cold liquid entering his mouth. He felt his mana recover. He noticed that the burns on his body had started recovering automatically. Maybe it was the effect of his Enhanced Recovery skill.

    But he had no time to delve into this matter. As his mind was preupied with another thought.

    ''Did I finish him in time?''

    Yes, Luis was concerned whether he managed to defeat the Giant Skeleton within 5 minutes time frame.

    Then he heard the mysterious voice say,

    {Congrattions! You have passed the third test [Challenger].}

    {You have fulfilled the condition ''Defeat the Giant Skeleton''.}

    {You can now receive the Ghost King''s Legacy.}

    A momentter, another green light fell from the sky and in front of him floated a mysterious ne.

    "What is this?"

    Although Luis had some idea about the ne from the game, he still decided to ask. Who knows if there are changes here too?

    {This is the ne of the almighty Darkenes, the Ghost King. It was helpful to him throughout his journey. It was called Akasha''s Ne. He obtained it after defeating Akasha, the undead king of Ramet.}

    *Phew*

    ''So, nothing''s changed.'' Luis sighed inwardly. ''As long as this artifact is the same, that''s fine.''

    "Just tell me its specifications."

    {...}

    With a pause, the voice continued.

    {This artifact nourishes the spirit and mana of the wearer. Gather mana from the surroundings, helpful with mana breathing, and mana recovery. Feeding the artifact with ghost energy can provide high-quality mana and help in refining the wearer''s mana core. Helpful at the time of breakthroughs.}

    Luis knew that the voice was only telling him about general information and not the exact data. He wanted to ask, but it seems he didn''t have the opportunity.

    {Hope you can challenge all the legacy pieces and be the final legacy inheritor [Challenger].}

    "Excuse me?" Luis called out, but received no response.

    ''It seems I can''t get any answers.'' Luis looked at the Akasha''s ne in hand and smiled, ''If its specs are the same as in the game, then it will be helpful in my growth.''

    Luis knew this ne was an absolute treasure for him. Making a strong foundation would be smoother. Moreover, he was barely suppressing himself from breaking through to F- Rank.

    He didn''t wear the ne as that will make him break through directly, which he didn''t want to do at the moment. As he won''t get the maximum gain if he does that.

    ''Let''s go home first.''

    Thinking of this, Luis walked up to the bones of the Giant Skeleton and saw the artwork he made from hisst spell.

    Looking around, he finally found what he was looking for.

    "There it is." Luis'' lips curved upward into a smile.

    At the center of the Giant Skeleton''s broken rib cage, he found a dark green orb, the size of his fist, and it looked like the most beautiful carved dark emerald.

    It was the core of the Giant Skeleton. Full of highly condensed ghost energy of a D-rank monster.

    Luis immediately put it inside his Pocket Space. ''Although, I can''t use it now. It will be useful in my breakthrough for theter rank.''

    He noticed that the barrier has been lifted, as he walked out of the arena, which was now in ruins. He found Alicia and Lumine standing there with dumbfounded expressions on their beautiful faces.

    "Hey guys," Luis waved at them with a charming smile.

    But Lumine didn''t seem to hear him as she mumbled something.

    "My son defeated a D-rank monster."

    Yeah, she was still having a hard time believing. Although she knew Luis was talented and she was always proud of him. But his performance just now shocked her that much.

    Alicia, on the other hand, looked at Luis with indescribable shock. To be said that both of them are in the same rank and have great talents, but the power which Luis demonstrated was far beyond their level.

    She didn''t feel any jealousy or inferiority towards him. Instead, there was a sense of ecstasy. After all, it was her fiance. Not wanting to be left behind, she was very enthusiastic about working hard. She strived to show that she was capable of standing beside him and not be an encumbrance to him.

    Unbeknownst to Alicia, her feelings toward Luis were bing stronger. But she didn''t care about all that. As she saw Luising towards them, she smiled and said cheerfully, "You crushed him."

    Hearing her chirping voice, Luis shrugged and said, "That should be obvious."

    ------------------------

    A.N.- Finally the dungeon expedition is over. Now only some events are left before the end of the first volume.

 Chapter 40: F-Rank

    <h4>Chapter 40: F-Rank</h4>

    Furrowing his brows, he asked while squinting his eyes, "You don''t think it''s wrong for me to challenge the legacy myself and not ask for your opinion when we both defeated the Skeleton Knight together?"

    Alicia shook her head and said, "No, I didn''t even know anything about the legacy in the first ce. So, I have no right toin."

    Luis smiled, thinking how nice this girl was. He could see she wasn''t lying. There was no dissatisfaction or jealousy in her eyes. Instead, she was happy for him.

    While they were still looking at each other. Lumine snapped.

    "MY SON DEFEATED A D-RANK MONSTER!!!"

    They nced at her, then looking at each other, they giggled. Their first dungeon expedition finally came to an end.

    ***

    "Let''s go home," Luis said, to which Alicia nodded softly.

    He just wanted to rush home and breakthrough.

    Lumine took out the return crystals and used them. The next moment, they found themselves outside the dungeon.

    The medical team was ready to be deployed anytime, and some guards were guarding the dungeon.

    The medics checked them for any injuries. Under the effects of healing magic, even the small bruises left before were healed.

    Luis urged Lumine to return home quickly. He wanted to break through as soon as he can. She also understood his predicament, so she called the car.

    On their way back to the mansion. Lumine kept on talking about Luis'' fight and how proud she was of him.

    Luis could understand her excitement. Although defeating a D-rank monster was no big deal for Lumine, but in the case of Luis, it was an extraordinary achievement.

    As she saw their nd reactions, Lumine felt bored. Puffing up her cheeks, she decided to share her excitement with Ronald. She knew he will understand her well.

    Unfortunately for her, when they returned to the mansion, Ronald was not there. He had some business to attend to.

    "Mom, let''s go to the mana training room," Luis said.

    Lumine and Alicia stopped in their tracks. Although Alicia wanted to clean herself first before breaking through. She knew Luis must be feeling rather ufortable. So she also decided to break through with him together.

    Seeing Alicia nod to her affirmatively, Lumine smiled and said. "Let''s go then."

    When the three of them entered the mana training room. Lumine took out a bunch of treasures from her mana bracelet.

    All of them will be beneficial at the time of breakthroughs.

    Durgid Root is a rare treasure used to strengthen the body. When a Doram tree bes a hundred years old, it''s called a Durgid tree. It goes through a special mutation, the leaves be sharper and darker, they are useful ingredient while making vigor medicines, and the most magical thing after mutation are the roots. They can strengthen the body by several folds.

    Morra Leaves. They look simr to Da Hong Pao tea leaves. Useful in strengthening the blood. Helpful in increasing the chances of Bloodline Awakening.

    And many other simr rare treasures wereid out in front of them. Looking over, Luis couldn''t help but smile.

    He was familiar with most of the treasures from the game. But that made him sigh even more. He was once again reminded of the differences between the rich and the ordinary.

    "Luis, you go first. It seems you are having trouble suppressing," Alicia whispered.

    Luis gave a smile of appreciation. ''Such a sweet girl.''

    Lumine kept the treasures near Luis, and the formation inside the room was activated. Then they went back and kept some distance from Luis.

    Luis felt the dense mana around him and smiled. ''It''s getting difficult to suppress myself.''

    He sat cross-legged in a meditative posture and started eating all the treasures. Then he took out Akasha''s Ne and wore it. It became even more difficult to suppress the energy inside him.

    Then Luis took out the pendant burning with ghost fire, which he obtained in the second test. As soon as he brought his ne close to the pendant. The ne devoured the ghost energy inside the pendant and the residual ghost fire.

    The ne refined it and converted it into high-quality mana and spiritual power, strengthening Luis'' mind.

    Luis also gulped down High-Grade Mana Elixirs.

    With the effects of all the treasures, the energy inside him soared. He then rxed his body and stopped suppressing the raging energy inside him. It felt as if a huge pressure was lifted off him. The energy circted all over his body through mana channels.

    Nourishing his blood vessels, mana channels, nerves, muscles, bones, and most importantly, his mana core.

    Because of the huge amount of energy, cracks appeared on his mana core. It wasn''t damaged, but a much stronger core was being condensed inside.

    The Akasha''s Ne did a wonderful job of assisting Luis in his breakthrough. It refined and gathered all the mana from the surroundings towards him and supplied him with more mana energy. Because of the formation, the effect was also improved.

    Luis didn''t feel mental exhaustion, as his spirit was being nourished by the ne at the same time.

    This process continued for a few minutes and finally, with a boom. Luis'' mana core shattered and was reced by a new stronger mana core that emerged from inside.

    His whole body was covered in sweat and became red due to the heat produced at the time of his breakthrough.

    Luis took a deep breath and opened his eyes. He smiled widely, feeling the surge of immense power inside him.

    ''So this is what a breakthrough feels like?''

    People said that breaking through rank is like rebirth. But Luis is not sure about that. After all, in his experience, he didn''t feel any simrity in them.

    ''But this feeling of the increase in power. Sure is addicting.''

    He activated his mana bracelet to check his status.

    --------------------

    ***

    [Name] : Luis Suarez

    [Race] : Human

    [Age] : 16

    [Rank] : Beginner ������ (F)

    [Affinity] : Lightning (Hidden : Space)

    [Talent Awakened] : Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent] : Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique] : None

    [Bloodline] : Unawakened

    [Titles] : Challenger

    [Skills] : Perception, Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D)

    [Techniques] : Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Basic ������ )

    [Mana Core] : Rank E+

    ***

    ----------------

    A.N:- Because Luis has yet to find suitable martial arts for himself, he is still practicing the basic martial arts he learned before. The grades of techniques will be dividedter when he finds suitable techniques.

 Chapter 41: Alicia’s Breakthrough

    <h4>Chapter 41: Alicia''s Breakthrough</h4>

    ''Awesome.'' A satisfied grin appeared on Luis'' face as he saw his status. ''This is just the start. I still have a long way to go before I can be the strongest.''

    Luis was surprised to find that even though he was a little excited but his mind was calm, as if this increase in power was not of much significance for him.

    ''Is this also the effect of Mental Fortitude?'' Luis was even more satisfied with this skill.

    "Congrattions! Luis." Lumine eximed excitedly. As soon as she felt Luis'' rank was stable, she came over quickly.

    "Congrats! Luis," Alicia said with sparkling eyes.

    "Thank you, Mom, Alicia," Luis replied with a calm smile.

    Alicia was very excited. She also couldn''t wait to break through. Sensing her excitement, Lumine turned to Alicia and said. "Alicia, it''s your turn."

    "Yes, Aunty," Alicia replied with eager eyes.

    "Wait, Alicia,"

    Luis stopped her.

    "Huh?" Alicia let out a confused sound.

    He took out the Akasha''s Ne from around his neck and gave it to Alicia.

    "Wear this at the time of your breakthrough. It will be beneficial."

    Alicia didn''t doubt Luis'' words because she trust him that he wouldn''t hurt her. But she still didn''t understand something.

    "Isn''t this what you got after challenging the legacy? Why would you let me use it?"

    She knew that this artifact was very precious because for Luis to get theplete legacy of the Ghost King, this artifact was an important piece that was needed. So she didn''t understand why would Luis allow her to use it. She couldn''t help but hesitate.

    Luis saw the hesitation in her eyes. He held back the smile from appearing on his face. Titling his head, he acted confused.

    "What are you talking about?"

    "Eh?" Alicia also became confused. "Did I misunderstand something?" She asked.

    Seeing the frown on her beautiful face, Luis wanted tough a little.

    Then, with a chuckle, he got close to her ears and said, "You''ll be mine in the future anyway, so what''s the problem?"

    Hearing Luis'' possessive words, Alicia couldn''t help feeling shy. She blushed heavily and snorted, trying to hide her embarrassment.

    *Hmph*

    She took the ne with a snort but didn''t deny his words.

    Luis had a teasing smirk on his face. ''So cute.'' He couldn''t help but want to tease her even more.

    *Ahem*

    A cough sounded beside them. They turned to look at Lumine in unison.

    "If the two of you had enough flirting, then we can get started?"

    Luis saw Lumine''s smile and knew she was very irritated.

    "Yes, Mam," Alicia shouted, almost saluting her in fright. She looked like a cat who was stepped on her tail as she rushed to the center of the formation.

    "She is yours, huh? Aren''t you too domineering?" Lumine scoffed.

    Her irritation was now shifted to Luis, who couldn''t help but smile bitterly.

    "I meant as my fiancee."

    He tried to rify.

    "Whatever."

    Although Lumine seemed annoyed, inwardly, she was happy that Luis and Alicia were getting closer.

    She couldn''t help but give a side nce at Luis. At first, she used to think it might be difficult for Luis and Alicia to get along with each other.

    After all, Alicia was famous for her cold nature. After Maria''s death, no one could get close to her, not even her father. As a potential future husband arranged by their parents, Lumine thought Alicia might have repulsion towards Luis.

    She thought they might note together. But contrary to her beliefs, everything happened so fast and smoothly, as if it was all a dream.

    In thest week, she had seen simr scenes many times, and she was surprised every time. But when she saw Luis teasing her just now, and that shy reaction. She couldn''t express her inner shock.

    Before, she just thought that they were slowly getting closer and opening up, but that wasn''t it. That cold beauty opened up to Luis and was now acting like a little girl in love.

    She knew all of this was possible because of Luis. And she was very interested in knowing what method he used to melt her heart.

    Luis felt the sharp re Lumine was giving, so hiding his nervousness, he asked. "What is it, Mom?"

    "Did you have a girlfriend before?"

    He was taken aback a little. ''Why is she asking something like that?''

    "No, if I had, you would have known."

    Lumine nodded her head. She knew Luis didn''t have anyone like that. But that made her even more curious.

    "Then how did you handle Alicia?" She asked with her eyes twinkling. She looked like a viewer asking for spoilers of her favorite drama.

    Luis gave her a side look and said as matter-of-factly. "What handle her? We naturally got close."

    "You want me to believe that?" Lumine asked, raising her left brow. If it was someone else, she might have believed him. But it was Alicia they were talking about.

    Luis nodded his head in understanding and said, "I think I know what might have been the reason."

    Lumine looked at him with curious eyes and asked, "Tell me." She thought she might get some interesting information.

    "She fell for my charms. I was too handsome for her to resist."

    *Cough*

    Lumine almost choked at his narcissism. But before she could say anything, Luis said. "Oh, Alicia haspleted her breakthrough." With those words, he left hastily.

    Though she was annoyed that Luis messed with her. She held back the annoyance and went to congratte Alicia.

    ***

    After they returned from the mana training room. The three separated and went back to their rooms.

    Luis immediately went to shower and then couldn''t help but take a dip in the bathtub.

    "Ahh, so refreshing."

    Yeah, today was an exhausting day for him. Fighting hordes of Skeleton Soldiers and Zombies. Defeating a G-rank boss monster, challenging a legacy, defeating a D-rank monster, and then breaking through. He felt that his growth in one day was far more than what he achieved in hisst week altogether.

    "As expected, just training won''t help. I''ll need a lot of fighting experience."

    He was already thinking of going to various dungeons to umte fighting experience. But before all that, he wanted to obtain something.

    "It seems it''s time for my Technician Talent to shine."

    Luis'' eyes were sharp, and there was a handsome smile on his face. Letting out a rxed sigh, he uttered.

    "It''s sofortable."

    -------------------------

    Quiz Time:

    What will be Luis'' first invention?

    1) A gadget for reconnaissance

    2) An A. I

    3) A range weapon

    4) Protective Gear

    5) Mini-bots

 Chapter 42: Late Night Talk

    <h4>Chapter 42: Late Night Talk</h4>

    Late at night, inside a luxurious bedroom. A beautiful woman could be seen sitting in front of arge mirror wearing a purple nightgown and gentlybing her silvery blue hair.

    Behind her, on a king-sized bed, a handsome ck-haired man was sitting, watching her actions tenderly. But as they continued talking about something, his gray eyes flickered in astonishment and he asked. "Is that true?"

    "Do you think I''ll lie to you?" The woman seemed annoyed by the man''s question.

    "No, no. I didn''t mean it like that, Lumine. It''s just I never expected you guys would encounter such things on a simple dungeon run." He immediately rified, afraid of angering his wife.

    This person was none other than Ronald. Just now, Lumine told him all her experiences of the day. Ronald, who went out because of the guild''s matters, didn''t expect something this big to ur.

    But fortunately, everyone was safe.

    "You were too reckless. You shouldn''t have allowed Luis to enter without proper preparations." Ronald said in a reprimanding tone. But he didn''t me her that much. He knew this was an important step for Luis'' growth. If he protected Luis from all the dangers, he would never grow.

    But he was still worried about them so he couldn''t help himself. Lumine understood Ronald''s feelings, so she quietly listened and didn''t argue.

    To be honest, she also felt it was rather reckless of her. If Luis hadn''tpleted the test, he might have died and she couldn''t have done anything.

    She couldn''t bear the thought of losing her son. This time she had learned her lesson, and she thought of something to safeguard Luis. ''I should find some protection artifacts for him.''

    "Even you weren''t able to break the barrier? I can''t imagine how strong the strength of the Ghost King would have been." Ronald said with a hint of curiosity.

    "I didn''t expect Luis to be interested in old legends, and he even managed to find a legacy," Ronald said with a thoughtful expression. Then shrugged and continued, "Doesn''t matter. As long as he is alright, everything is fine."

    "Do you know about the Ghost King and his legacy?" Lumine asked.

    Shaking his head in denial, Ronald replied. "No." Then he continued, "The forbidden records of the church are confidential information hidden from the public. It is something they try to hide from the outsiders."

    "Though if I try to pressure them. It won''t be difficult to get ess."

    Ronald''s words made Lumine puzzled as she questioned, "Then how did Luis get his hands on them?"

    Yes, how did Luis get ess to those records? If he tried to use the family''s status to get ess from the church, Ronald would have known about this matter. This made her wonder what means Luis used.

    Ronald was silent for some time, then finally uttered, "I think I know how he did it."

    "Really? How?" Lumine asked curiously.

    "... He has an A-grade Technician talent. Maybe he hacked the church''s private server."

    The private server of the church is not as secure as Mana Bracelet technology, but it''s still not something that can be breached. But with Luis'' talent, it might have been possible.

    Hearing Ronald''s analysis, Lumine pondered for a moment and said, "Hmm, maybe, but I don''t think it''s as simple as it sounds."

    "Why do you say so?" Ronald wanted to know her reasons.

    Lumine walked up to the bed and sat beside Ronald. She had a serious expression on her face as she said, "You don''t know Ronald. The whole time during the dungeon run and the legacy test, Luis was extremely calm and collected. As if everything was in his calctions. He didn''t fluster even for a moment. He knew exactly what to do and how to do it. It was as if he had experienced everything before."

    Although Lumine has a yful side, she also finds some things strange.

    "Would you have been so confident in front of a D-rank monster when you are just a Rookie G-rank awakened, moreover it was his first time fighting monsters."

    "That kind of confidence can onlye with experience or if you have enough knowledge about the enemy."

    "In the battle, Luis always had the upper hand. The entire fight was under his control."

    Lumine had a lot of spections and felt that her son was bing even more mysterious.

    *Sigh*

    Heaving a sigh, Ronald said.

    "Let''s leave it at this, shall we? There''s no point thinking about this matter."

    Seeing Lumine''s dissatisfied expression, Ronald exined his thoughts.

    "Luis is our son, and he is a genius. There''s no need to think too much. So what if he is mysterious? It''s good that he is growing stronger. We shouldn''t question him. Let''s just observe him quietly. If he finds himself in trouble, then we will be there to support him."

    Lumine nodded in understanding it''s not that she wanted to pry into her son''s affairs, but she couldn''t help her curiosity.

    Remembering something, she once again opened her mouth to ask.

    "By the way, do you know if Luis had a special rtionship with any girl before Alicia?"

    This question was unexpected by Ronald.

    "Why do you say so?"

    Lumine hesitated but finally said, "He is too good at handling Alicia. He seems used to handling girls."

    "Oh that, you think too much." Ronald dismissed Lumine''s thoughts and, with a smug grin, he continued, "Isn''t that obvious? He is my son. Of course, he is good at handling women."

    When Lumine heard Ronald''s narcissistic words, a tick appeared on her forehead. She was annoyed, but instead of rebutting, her lips curled up and a yful smirk appeared on her beautiful face.

    "Is that so?"

    "Of course." He replied instantly.

    Lumine wiggled and stood on her knees. She pressed him on the bed and climbed on top of him.

    "In that case." Saying that, she mischievously licked her lips.

    Ronald suddenly had a bad premonition in his heart and, sure enough, the next moment he heard her continue.

    "You shouldn''t have any trouble handling me tonight?"

    "I... I..." Ronald wanted to say something, but Lumine put her delicate-looking finger on his lips and said in a provoking tone.

    "Are you going to back down now?"

    What can he do? Both of them are S-rank but who asked him, a mage, to fight against his swordswoman wife in a physical battle?

    *Ugh*

    Ronald gritted his teeth and decided to fight hard. That entire night, even with a powerful Overlord rank physique, he fought a tough battle that drained him dry.

 Chapter 43: To Almast

    <h4>Chapter 43: To Almast</h4>

    In the early morning, Luis sat in the garden sipping a cup of fragrant mana tea, and in front of him stood a fierce-looking man with blue hair and a small scar near his right eye.

    "Did you find anything, Jack?" Luis asked as he ced the cup of mana tea beside him.

    "No, young master. The target is constantly being monitored. But no suspicious activity yet." Jack said emotionlessly.

    Luis nodded his head and didn''t feel disheartened by the result. He expected as much. If Ren Varnish wasn''t deeply hidden, he would have been caught long ago.

    "Hmm, continue monitoring."

    "Yes, young master."

    Jack said without a change of expression.

    Nodding his head, Luis asked another question. "What about Alicia''s mansion? Are there any suspicious people lurking around her estate?"

    "No, young master. No such people are found."

    Hearing Jack''s words, Luis grinned inwardly. ''It seems they found out that Alicia is not living there anymore.''

    "Well, leaving that aside. I have a different matter to discuss with you." Luis said seriously.

    Hearing his solemn tone, Jack stood there motionless, waiting for Luis to continue.

    "This is a list of materials I want to be prepared." With a wave of his hand, Luis sent the hologram of the list from his mana bracelet to Jack''s.

    Jack didn''t question and immediately said. "It will be done."

    Luis knew Jack will report this matter to his dad, but he didn''t care. To be honest, it didn''t matter to him. Excluding his real identity and his memories of his previous life, he doesn''t have anything to hide from them.

    "Also, we are going to the city of Almast. So, prepare these things and get the teleport circle ready." Giving out some instructions, Luis left the garden, leaving the confused Jack who couldn''tprehend Luis'' actions. But as a loyal shadow of Ronald, he wouldn''t question what he shouldn''t.

    So he immediately left to first report it to Ronald and then carry out young master Luis'' orders.

    ***

    Luis went to the training grounds and saw Lumine teaching swordsmanship to Alicia. More like Alicia was just trying to strike her, and Lumine was instructing and correcting her mistakes.

    Alicia''s talent in swordsmanship sure is one of the best. Once her mistake is corrected, she won''t repeat it. Her adaptability is insane. Even her form was getting more and more beautiful.

    When they noticed Luis'' arrival, they stopped and turned to look at him in unison.

    "What are you doing here? Didn''t your father tell you to abstain from practice for today?" Lumine asked, looking at him in confusion.

    Yes, at the time of breakfast, Ronald reprimanded Luis for taking a risk by fighting a D-rank monster.

    "Today you won''t do any strenuous training and just rest," Ronald said.

    Luis could only oblige, otherwise, Ronald would burst out again and continue to nag.

    Ronald wanted Alicia to take a day off too, but she denied it without hesitation. Instead of taking breaks, she was more eager to practice swordsmanship under Lumine.

    Hence, today is Luis'' day off from practice. That is why he decided to move his n forward and obtain ''that''.

    "I am going to the city of Almast. Will be back by the evening."

    Hearing Luis'' words, both of them were stunned. Then, regaining herposure, Lumine asked with a frown.

    "Alone?"

    Luis knew her worry, so he answered calmly.

    "No, Jack is going with me."

    Lumine nodded her head and wanted to ask why he was going, but because of Ronald''s wordsst night, she held back the curiosity inside her and uttered. "Be careful."

    Luis smiled, then he nced at Alicia. He saw that she wanted to say something, but no words came out of her mouth. Maybe it was embarrassment, or she was having trouble expressing herself. In the end, she just looked at him seriously and said, "Come back soon."

    But Luis wasn''t going to let it be easy for her. He looked at her in anticipation, then his expression turned into a confused one. "That''s it?"

    "Huh? What do you mean?" Alicia was also confused, thinking she made a mistake.

    Luis went close to her and whispered in a seductive tone, "Aren''t you going to hug or kiss me to show your affection?"

    Alicia felt her cheeks burn and her white skin was covered in red dew. She couldn''t handle the embarrassment and immediately raised her sword, making a distance.

    *Shing*

    She breathed heavily, not because she was angry but blushing heavily. She felt her heart jumping wildly.

    Pointing her sword at Luis, she said, "S-So shameless."

    At the end of the pointed de toward himself, Luis looked at her innocently, "But you are my fiancee, how is it wrong for me if I want to hug and kiss you?"

    Alicia couldn''t find any words to rebuke him. Not that she wanted to. But she was too scared to admit it in front of Lumine.

    Luis looked at her aggrievedly and said, "When you hug me it''s fine, but if I want to hug you it''s shameless. So unfair."

    Alicia''s pupils constricted as she nced at Lumine nervously. Sure enough, Lumine was giving her a weird look.

    Before Alicia could exin herself. She didn''t know when Luis used Spatial Jump, disappeared, and then reappeared behind her.

    Only when she felt his touch around her waist did she understand that she was being hugged from behind.

    Her body tensed up as she nervously looked at Lumine''s reaction. But still didn''t try to break apart from his hug.

    When she heard his voice near her ears, she felt a tingling sensation inside her body.

    "Rx Alicia. Stop being so tense around me."

    He continued.

    "There is no need to be on edge all the time. We are going to be a family. So you can rx around us."

    Luis had noticed that since the time Alicia has been trying to stop being cold and indifferent towards the family, sometimes she doesn''t know how to act and ends up being too formal.

    He knew with time she will automatically adjust herself, but a small push won''t do anything bad.

    ''Yeah, everything is for her sake. It''s not that I want to take advantage of her.'' Luis thought righteously.

    Alicia didn''t say anything and silently enjoyed the warmth of his embrace.

    Lumine looked at the familiar scene in front of her and thought, ''Their flirting is getting outrageous day by day.''

 Chapter 44: The Drunkard Half-blood

    <h4>Chapter 44: The Drunkard Half-blood</h4>

    Inside his study, Ronald listened to Jack''s report with a poker expression on his face.

    "I see." With on a thoughtful expression, he said. "Follow his orders. But remember to ensure his safety."

    "Yes, master." With those words, Jack left to carry out Luis'' orders.

    Ronald was left alone inside the study, thinking back on Jack''s report.

    "Almast, huh?" He mumbled.

    He didn''t understand what Luis was thinking. Not that he wanted to probe him. He will support his son, nheless.

    He then nced at the hologram in front of him. It was the list of materials that Luis asked Jack to prepare.

    Reading the names of some of the materials, Ronald couldn''t help but mutter. "I wonder what he is going to make."

    Although Ronald didn''t have talent in the technical field. He wasn''t ayman in these technical materials.

    Though he was interested but he didn''t want to bother Luis. He knew once Luis seeds, he will definitely tell him.

    ***

    After teasing Alicia a little, Luis didn''t bother her, and watched her training quietly. He knew his limits for teasing her. Excessive teasing may end up generating some hatred.

    As he quietly watched Alicia move back and forth, trying tond a hit to Lumine. He couldn''t help but think about the fighting techniques Alicia mastered in the game.

    ''Maybe I should help her get that sword technique early.''

    Luis knew Alicia wanted to keep up with him, and that''s why she was working hard. He also respected her choice and wanted to support her. He knew Alicia was very talented, but she never got the chance to shine in the game.

    ''I wonder how things will turn out now.'' When Luis was still in his thoughts. Jack had already approached and reminded him.

    "Young master, the transport circle is ready. We can leave anytime."

    Hearing this, Luis immediately stood up and left with Jack without bothering Lumine and Alicia.

    Coming to the familiar room with the transport circle drawn in the floor shining in white light. Luis didn''t waste any time and stepped inside, followed by Jack.

    A momentter, both of them disappeared from the Suarez estate and appeared in the Vip room of the transport hub of the Almast city.

    Several employees came forward seemingly trying to serve Luis, who was a special Vip. But Luis sends them off with a gesture. He doesn''t want to waste his time here.

    "Young master, the car is ready."

    Jack has already prepared everything beforeing here.

    Luis nodded his head, and following Jack''s lead, they entered the car. No bodyguards were called because Jack was there to ensure Luis''s safety.

    "Where are we going, young master?"

    Jack asked, because he still didn''t know their destination.

    Luis was silent for a moment, then said, "To the Adventure Market, near Servail Mountains."

    Jack didn''t question anything and just let the driver drive.

    Looking outside the transparent bulletproof window ss. Luis saw the city of Almast, the city surrounded by mountains. After the great war, many dwarves settled down here and the product they produced brought growth in the industry both for humans and dwarves.

    Now, whether it''s technology or weapon production, this city has be the forefront.

    This city is also known as the link between humans and dwarves. But Luis'' goal this time doesn''t have anything to do with dwarves. Maybe it does, but notpletely.

    He came here because this is the city where the protagonist obtained his first magic sword.

    In the game, the protagonist used this magic sword for a long time until he obtained a holy sword and other swords which werepatible with his element.

    Don''t misunderstand. Luis has no interest in obtaining that magic sword. Sword fighting is not his style, nor does he have much talent in it. What he is interested in is the material of that magic sword.

    "Young master, we are here."

    Jack''s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. Luis nced outside the window and sure enough, they have arrived. He saw a huge building with the adventurer association logo on it.

    Although it was called a market, it was more of a mall that specializes in selling products for adventurers. It''s named Adventurer Market because of the tradition of this ce.

    Since many decades ago, even before the adventurer association was founded, this ce used to be a market for adventurer products.

    After the establishment of the adventure association, the adventurer upation has been legalized. But they are still trying to control the flow of weapons and dangerous products.

    Looking at the building, Luis decided to check it out in the future. Though he doesn''t care about their products as his family is also in the same industry and the goods produced by his family are no worse than them, maybe even better. It''s just their market is biggerpared to the Suarez family.

    "Search for a run-down cksmith shop run by a drunkard half-dwarf," Luis said to Jack.

    Receiving the orders, Jack immediately started asking around. Don''t look at Jack, who is usually quiet. When ites topleting his job, hismunication skills are unmatched.

    It didn''t take long for them to find the location. After all, a drunkard half-blood is pretty famous among the locals. It may not be in a good way, but is still a topic of gossip, so locals knew about him.

    "Young master, there''s a half-dwarf named Pietro, who has a cksmith shop inherited from his dwarven father in the small street 120 meters ahead," Jack said.

    "Yes, he is the one we are looking for. Let''s go," Luis said with a slight smile.

    Jack nodded and let the driver drive towards the location. But when they arrived near the small street, they noticed it was too narrow for the car to enter.

    So Jack and Luis walked on foot and arrived in front of an old two-story building. Luis looked at the run-down cksmith shop in front of him with an indifferent expression and directly walked in.

 Chapter 45: Scaring Pietro

    <h4>Chapter 45: Scaring Pietro</h4>

    As he pushed open the door. It made a creaking sound. The shop wasn''t well furnished. The smell of alcohol was lingering in the air.

    ''I knew he was a drunkard, but not to this extent.''

    Luis turned to look at the disy cases and the shelves. Only some cheap knives and swords were present. With one look, even a child could tell that these weapons were of poor quality or made of cheap materials.

    When they saw no one was present at the counter, Jack gave a nce at Luis, then shouted. "Where''s the shop owner?"

    The awaited response didn''te. Jack frowned and once again shouted. "IS ANYONE HERE?!"

    "Who the hell is disturbing my sleep?" An angry shout came from inside.

    Soon a short bulky man of about 150 cm with pointy ears came out shouting curses. His appearance was a ssic example of a drunkard. Messy hair and an unkept long beard, red eyes still hungover, and the reeking smell of alcohol.

    ''So this is the half-dwarf named Pietro.'' Luis looked at him and wondered. ''How did this guy manage to make a magic sword for the protagonist? Though that magic sword wasn''t that good, it was still made of some pretty good materials.''

    Thinking of this guy''s future, Luis couldn''t help but sigh inwardly. After he meets with the protagonist and once his quest ispleted, this guy climbs on the road to sess and bes a big figure in the future.

    But now that Luis met him, his future has also be uncertain.

    "Are you Pietro the cksmith?" Luis walked over and asked calmly. Not minding Pietro''s appearance in the slightest.

    Pietro pointed his index finger at Luis and shouted. "Who the hell are you, brat?"

    *Shing*

    Don''t know when Jack appeared beside Pietro, cing a de on Pietro''s neck, he said in his cold, emotionless voice, "If you don''t want this head, then keep shouting."

    *Gulp*

    Pietro gulped nervously and immediately sobered up. He nervously looked at the sharp de just a millimeter away from his neck.

    He is a cksmith. With a nce, he knew it was a magic sword. Moreover, the pressure Jack gave was too much for him and the terrifying killing intent made his legs go numb.

    Although he is a D-rank awakened and pretty strongpared to normal people. But in his current situation, he may be beheaded before he could even struggle.

    Jack coldly looked at him and said, "Next time, you act rudely in front of the young master. I''ll take your head."

    Under the terrifying pressure of Jack and the threat of a sword ready to chop his head anytime. Pietro was covered in a cold sweat as he nervously replied, "Y-Yes."

    "Jack, let him go."

    Luis'' words were like the most beautiful melody in Pietro''s ears at this moment.

    Jack nodded and then removed the sword, keeping it back inside the mana bracelet.

    Although Jack let him go. Pietro was still under a lot of pressure. As he sobered up under Jack''s actions. He understood something clearly. These people in front of him are not something he should mess with.

    ''That man called him Young Master. Is it someone of high status?'' Thinking of this, Pietro held back his nervousness and tried to act humble.

    "Um, what can I do for you? Um, esteemed guests?"

    Luis'' expression was indifferent, and he gave off a noble temperament.

    Now Pietro was certain that this person in front of him was someone important. But what made him confused was, why would such an important persone to his shop?

    "You haven''t answered my question yet?" Luis said indifferently, then continued coldly. "Are you Pietro the cksmith?"

    "Yes, yes," Pietro replied sheepishly.

    Only when he heard Pietro''s affirmative answer did Luis rx his cold expression.

    "You don''t have to be so nervous." Luis'' words wereforting, but his tone was pretty nd.

    Pietro felt like he was walking on thin ice. One misstep and he may die. So he didn''t dare say anything carelessly. You ask him not to be nervous. How can he not?

    But he onlyined inwardly and showed an ugly smile, even uglier than his current appearance, which proved that he wasn''t nervous in the slightest.

    "I''m Luis Suarez, from the Suarez family of Tryston City."

    Luis'' introduction made Pietro''s eyes widen. Only now he understood that he underestimated the identity of the person in front of him. He obviously knew about the Suarez family.

    "Are you rted to the Hero Henry?" Pietro asked excitedly.

    "Yes, I''m his grandson," Luis replied calmly.

    *Hiss*

    Pietro sucked a cold breath. If he wasn''t sober before, by now he would have beenpletely sobered up.

    "I''m sorry for my rudeness earlier. I was drunk." Pietro immediately apologized for his earlier mistake.

    Waving his hand, Luis said, "It''s fine. This time I''vee because of an important purpose."

    When he heard that, Luis was talking about important business. Pietro perked his ears up and focused.

    "I want to buy an emptied mine and I''ve heard no ores have been dug out of your mine for thest few years."

    Hearing the purpose of Luis''s visit, Pietro was stunned. He didn''t expect the mine to be the reason.

    His father was one of the dwarves who settled in this city after the great war. The mine and this cksmith shop, both he inherited from his father.

    Pietro''s life was pretty good, and he managed to get some stable ie using the smithing techniques he learned from his father.

    But 10 years ago, slowly the quality of the Ores he mined started decreasing and a few yearster, no more Ores started forming inside the mine.

    Later he couldn''t find any Ores and now the mine was nested by some monsters and beasts.

    Since then, he wasted his years drinking alcohol.

    He wanted to sell the mine, but no one wanted to buy an emptied mine which has no other productive feature.

    Some people wanted to try their luck in purchasing, but the price they offered was too low for Pietro to ept.

    Later, even when Pietro tried selling it at a low cost, no one wanted to buy it.

    This made him even more depressed, and he spent the rest of his savings drinking cheap alcohol. But he was worried because he knew if this continued, his savings will be dried out within a few months.

    So when Luis said that wanted to buy his mine, he couldn''t help but be stunned.

    ��������������������

    A.N. - Mines of this world are different from our world.

 Chapter 46: Omni Ore

    <h4>Chapter 46: Omni Ore</h4>

    "Are you serious?" Pietro asked with a disbelieving expression on his face.

    "Do you think that young master is free enough toe here and joke with you?" Jack''s cold words made him clear that this wasn''t a joke.

    "Sorry, it''s just too unbelievable," Pietro said sheepishly.

    Luis nodded his head in understanding. Then, with an impatient expression, he said, "I want to purchase your mine. Do you want to sell or not?"

    His attitude made it clear that he didn''t want to waste time. If Pietro doesn''t agree, he will leave and search for somewhere else.

    How could Pietro not understand that? Moreover, he doesn''t want to miss this opportunity to sell his mine.

    Who knows when there will be someone ready to buy an empty mine?

    As for why Luis wants to buy an empty mine, that''s none of his business, nor is he in any position to question it.

    "Yes, yes, I want to sell it," Pietro said hurriedly, as if afraid Luis would go back on his words.

    There was a gleam in Luis'' eyes, which was perfectly hidden underneath his indifferent expression.

    He turned to look at Jack and said, "Finalize the contract and settle it now."

    Pietro was surprised and didn''t expect things to move so fast.

    "Aren''t you going to negotiate the price?"

    Luis looked at him weirdly and said, "Isn''t it the same price at which you were searching for someone to buy it?"

    Pietro was dumbstruck for a moment, and then realization hit him. Indeed, some time ago he did search for people to buy his mine and the price he set was extremely lowpared to the mine''s actual value.

    Unfortunately, no one wanted to buy a mine that can''t even produce metals and now is infested with monsters and beasts.

    He wanted to negotiate the price with Luis and sell at a high price. But, who would expect Luis had already investigated the information about him and the market?

    Pietro wanted to remedy the situation and increase the price from his set price range. But Luis already saw through him and didn''t give him a chance.

    Narrowing his eyes, he asked, "Is there a problem?"

    Although it was a chance for him to increase the price, Luis'' question put him under a lot of pressure. If he goes back on his words, Luis may feel offended and not buy the mine off him. That is not something he could afford to happen. After all, he can never be sure about the mood of rich people.

    "No, I agree. Happy cooperation."

    There was a happy smile on Pietro''s face. Although he sold the mine at a lower price than he wanted, it was still better than nothing. With the amount he will receive, he could start his own business and finally be free from this poor life.

    Luis let out a rare smile and said, "Happy Cooperation."

    Then, turning to Jack, he said, "Jack, bring the contract."

    "Yes, Young Master."

    Jack brought out some papers from inside his mana bracelet. Yes, this contract is what Luis asked Jack to prepare beforehand.

    Pietro was surprised that Luis had everything prepared, but he didn''t think for long. From their interaction, he already knew that Luis didn''t want to waste his time, and having a prepared contract beforehand is ''absolutely'' normal. He joyously moved over to Jack and carefully went through the contract.

    Looking at Pietro, who seemed very happy. Luis couldn''t help but think how easy it was.

    Everything went ording to his ns. Pietro acted just as he expected. From the start, Luis created pressure on Pietro while alsoforting him in between.

    From Jack''s aggressive attitude to Luis'' indifference in purchasing the mine. Everything was nned.

    It was all to not let Pietro suspect that there was something special about the mine. With his indifference under slow pressure, he let Pietro believe it was the best thing for him to sell that mine.

    He made Pietro believe that it wasn''t Luis who was excited to buy his mine. Rather, it was Pietro who should be d to sell his mine.

    For the finale and to not give Pietro time to sort out his thoughts again. Luis put the contract in front.

    ''Now look at him happily selling such a treasure mine.''

    Shaking his head, Luis thought of the mine and the weird naturalws of this world.

    In his previous life, minerals and metals were resources that were already present inside the earth''s crust and were dug out.

    But in this world, things are different. The minerals and metals in Alnaur, form naturally over time because of the energy present in the environment.

    But this also means that the resources are easily exhaustible if there is no energy.

    The metal ores formed inside Pietro''s mine were called Irphine. It is one of the few metals which has slight mana conductivity and is sturdy enough to be made into a popr product for awakened equipment. That is only for the average awakeneds below C rank.

    Ifbined with Tharium, it bes a special alloy with mana resistance. Which is popr as a material for defensive equipment.

    Now when the quality of Irphine ore started decreasing, Pietro assumed that it was because the energy near his mine was used up.

    It was a normal reason, and a simple conclusion based on the observation.

    But Pietro was wrong. It was not because there was no energy in the surroundings. It all happened because of a metal ore that absorbed all the energy in the surrounding and didn''t let any other ore form or absorb the energy.

    It was all because of the world''s best mana-conducting metal in the world. Which is so rare that many people don''t even know about its existence.

    It was also Luis'' purpose ining here and purchasing the mine.

    Omni Ore.

    Though it was not the only reason for purchasing the mine. The Omni Ore is the thing he was mainly after. Other benefits are secondary.

    In the game, the first magic sword the protagonist obtained was called the Omni-Sword. It was made of the alloy of this Omni Ore and a few other strong metals. It was the creation of Pietro, the cksmith.

 Chapter 47: Luis’ Disappointment.

    <h4>Chapter 47: Luis'' Disappointment.</h4>

    Pietro happily signed the contract, and the deal was made. He got the money and Luis got the mine. Normally, it shouldn''t be possible for things to be this easy. But Luis was already prepared with his family''s wide connections.

    So Pietro just needed to sign, and the ownership was transferred to Luis as of this moment.

    "Sorry that I couldn''t give you much hospitality."

    "Nah, it''s fine. We were the ones who came unannounced." Luis said with augh. Now that the mine was in his hands, there was no need to act cold.

    With some cordial words, they finally left the ce. Pietro also happily came to send them off to the car. "Pleasee again next time."

    Until the car was out of his sight, Pietro stood there waving happily. "Finally sold that damn mine."

    ***

    Inside the car, looking at the contract, a smirk appeared on Luis'' face. The contracts in this world are signed with magic ink and then injected with the individual''s mana. Hence, they can''t be forged. Otherwise, Luis wouldn''t have gone through so much trouble. There are easy ways to handle it.

    "Where to, Young Master?" Jack asked.

    "To the Mine," Luis answered while keeping the contract inside his mana bracelet.

    Although Jack didn''t ask, from his look, it was easy to figure out that he was very curious at the moment. He wanted to know why would young master go through all that trouble to buy an empty mine. But he didn''t dare ask anything.

    Luis was aware of Jack''s thoughts. Unfortunately, he had no intention of revealing it.

    No matter how loyal Jack is to his family. Some things shouldn''t be revealed and are better to be secret. That was the case for Omni Ore. This is a metal the Overlords would kill for.

    As per the original story, Pietro didn''t know about the Omni Ore. Due to its good mana conductivity, he just thought it was a better quality Irphine from his mine. If he had tested a little more, he would have understood what kind of treasure he was holding.

    But Pietro at that time was already happy thinking that the energy inside his mine might have returned and it already started to form Ores. Looking at the Omni Ore, he thought the Irphine quality had also improved.

    So he decided to make a magic sword as a gift for the protagonist who solved his trouble by defeating the monsters nesting inside his mine and bringing him such good news.

    That was the birth of Omni Sword.

    Although the sword was good. It was only made by tempering the ore by mixing it with some strong alloy and magic engineering to form magic veins in the sword to unleash magic attacks.

    In simple words, the sword was just enough to be a low-grade magic weapon, but when such a great treasure, Omni Ore is used. How can it be simple? It became a magic sword of high quality.

    But because of his inexperience and poor skill in handling such great material. He just downgraded the potential of the Omni Ore.

    In his ignorance, he wasted a top-grade rare material to create a high-grade magic sword.

    After the monsters were killed and the Omni Ore was removed. A mana vein was found inside the mine. The quality of Irphine Ores improved and another kind of material was found inside the mine, which was the start of Pietro''s road to sess. It was Mana Metal.

    Although it''s not a rare material, it is still a pricey and highly anticipated material in the industry.

    And this is going to bring a lot of gains for the Suarez family.

    Luis also had ns for which a lot of Mana Metal was needed in the future. Now that they will have an abundant supply of it. There won''t be trouble finding a supplier forrge quantities of Mana Metal.

    While he was immersed in his thoughts, they were already out of the city and entered Servail Mountains.

    Some timeter, Jack''s voice sounded.

    "Young master, from here we have to walk on foot."

    Luis nodded and got out of the car. Looking at the forest in front of him, Luis let out a rxed sigh. As for encountering any dangerous monsters, he doesn''t care. He has a strong guard with him.

    "Let''s hurry up," Luis said.

    It took a 5-minute walk from there as they arrived at the entrance of the mine. Luis saw a wheeled cart near the entrance, probably used to carry the ores.

    "So many Slimes are gathered here." Luis saw the Slimes snuggled together inside the cart. He looked at them curiously for some time, but then shook his head in disappointment.

    "All of them are Common Slimes."

    He generated a small orb of lightning and casually threw it inside the cart, then directly walked inside the Mine beside Jack.

    *Boom*

    All the Slimes alongside the cart were destroyed. If there was any Mutated Slime, he would have been interested. Common Slimes are useless.

    They went further deep inside the mine. As he curiously looked around, Luis noticed that the only monsters present were all herbivores.

    He was speechless. ''Is that the reason Adventures of Almast City doesn''t even bother to clean this ce?''

    All the monsters are of G grade and the strongest one is F grade. Luis didn''t even bother to kill them and asked Jack to clean them up.

    As they went further inside the mine, he expected stronger monsters to appear, but he found nothing. The same herbivores.

    ''What''s going on?'' Luis was confused. In the game, although there were weak monsters but there was still one particrly strong one.

    ''Where is it?''

    They have been walking for almost 30 minutes and they were already deep inside the mine.

    ''Is this different in reality?''

    Putting the matter of the monster aside. Luis focused on searching for the Omni Ore.

    Luis focused on using his Perception to find the flow of energy inside the mine.

    If Pietro had thought of buying an energy-detecting artifact. He wouldn''t have wasted thest 10 years.

 Chapter 48: A Monster Egg?!!

    <h4>Chapter 48: A Monster Egg?!!</h4>

    Following the flow of energy, Luis soon arrived near a wall. Then, with his Perception, he saw that all the energy was entering inside a white stone stuck near the wall.

    It looked simr to Irphine, but rather than grayish-white metallic color it was pure white.

    "Jack, break this part of the wall," Luis said, while pointing at an angle.

    "How big the hole should be, young master?"

    "A meter is enough."

    Jack immediately went forward and punch while controlling his strength.

    *Kaboom*

    It felt as if a bomb detonated inside the mine. Fortunately, Jack controlled his power perfectly, and only that particr area was broken.

    Luis smiled slightly and picked up the pure white stone in his hand.

    ''This should be about 3 kg.''

    He then put it inside his Pocket Space, and a handsome smile appeared on his face.

    ''Now I can finally start making ''that''.''

    At this moment, eyes fell on something. Without his Perception skill, it would have been difficult to find it.

    Luis curiously walked over and took out something from a hole in the corner of the side wall.

    "An egg?" He curiously looked at the ck egg, about the size of 15 cm in length. If it''s just a nce, he would have mistaken it for an oval gem.

    "But what monster will leave an egg in this ce without guarding it?"

    Suddenly, a thought came to his mind. Luis'' eyes widen and he opened his mana bracelet to search for information in the monster encyclopedia.

    "No way," Luis couldn''t help but exim.

    Looking at the egg in his hand, he thought, ''No wonder I couldn''t find this monster. It''s still an egg.''

    It was easy to confirm the information about the monster because of its unique traits. The parent of this monstery their eggs in dark areas and leave them alone to survive.

    ''When the protagonist fought this monster, it was weak considering the monster''s potential. It must be because it was still immature.''

    Luis immediately came to this conclusion, then a question came to his mind.

    ''Now what should I do?''

    Should he leave this egg here or...

    ''It''s not bad to have a pet. Maybe Alicia will like it.''

    He thought of the scene where they were being intimate while ying with the pet. A warm smile appeared on his face as he said, "A family without a pet feels iplete."

    With that thought, Luis decided to raise him. ''Also, this guy''s ability is pretty good. In the original story, the Protagonist had an easy win because he came with a party and the monster was still immature.''

    ''But what If I train it? Can it defeat the Protagonist?''

    ''Of course, it''s only possible when the Protagonist is weak. Once he gets stronger, the monster may not be his opponent.''

    An evil smirk appeared on Luis'' face as he thought of something fun.

    ''Hehe, I''m only thinking of avenging the monster in the game. It''s absolutely not because I think... it will be fun to see the Protagonist being defeated by the monster he unfairly killed.''

    Luis wasn''t worried about taming the monster. Because he had confidence in dealing with it.

    Carefully holding the egg in his hand, he looked at Jack and said. "Follow me."

    Now that the Omni Ore was gone, Luis noticed that the energy flow has changed and dispersed in many directions.

    He keenly saw everything with his perception and a momentter stopped in front of a wall.

    "Jack, break this wall."

    Jack knew the wall was thick and a simple punch won''t be effective. He used his technique ''Dynamic Fist'' to shatter the wall into pieces.

    The mine vibrated and when the tremble stopped, Luis saw that in front of him, behind the rubble, a passage opened.

    Luis walked inside, and in front of him was arge quantity of Irphine Ore.

    Jack couldn''t help but look at everything in shock. He then looked at Luis, who was as calm as the stillke. He became even more surprised.

    ''That means Young Master already knew about it.'' Jack had handled Ronald''s business on his behalf most of the time, hence he had a lot of experience, but at this moment he could confidently say his vision pales inparison to Young Master.

    All this time, he couldn''t figure out anything special about the mine. Even when Luis took that white stone. Jack didn''t think much about it.

    He only assumed that the white stone caught Young Master''s fancy. After all, he didn''t know Luis had Technician talent and that he was here to search for materials. He never knew Luis'' purpose foring here and going through all that trouble.

    But when he saw therge quantity of Ores inside the Mine. He had already calcted that this will bring a lot of benefits.

    He wanted to ask a lot of questions, but as usual, he couldn''t. Not unless Luis allows him to.

    Luis'' eyes moved around seriously and he noticed there weren''t any Mana Metal.

    ''Guess it will take some time.''

    Looking at Jack, he said, "You know what to do, right?"

    "Yes, Young Master," Jack replied confidently.

    Luis nodded his head in assurance. ''It''s better to leave the rest to him.''

    With that thought in mind, Luis and Jack left the mine.

    After minutes of walking, they finally arrived near the car. By that time, Jack had made several calls, and Luis knew that his father would have received the news.

    "Let''s go home."

    With the material in his hands, Luis'' business was done here. He just wanted to return home quickly.

    Taking the transport circle in the Almast City, they finally returned home.

    For the rest of the day, Luis was inside his room. He synced his mana bracelet to the family library and studied books on the theory of elements and metal tempering.

    After reading them for a while, he opened the Ancient Magic Book and read about ancient Rune Making. He also read several other books on Rune Making.

    ---------------------

    Quiz Time:-

    Which monster''s egg is it?

    1) Mutated Slime

    2) Shadow Hawk

    3) Dragon

    4) Moon Fox

 Chapter 49: Alicia is Shocked!

    <h4>Chapter 49: Alicia is Shocked!</h4>

    Thews of physics arepletely different in this world. Because magic which should be something beyond physics is also a part of it. That is also the reasonws are defined as well as not defined, because humans have the potential to defy allws. Because of the vastness of magic and its infinite applications. There is always magic that breaks the currentws.

    It''s been a week since Luis came back from the city of Almast. These days he spent doing training and reading books.

    Fortunately, with the help of expensive elixirs, he managed to cope with it. Otherwise, that hell-like training left no room for other things.

    Luis browsed through all the physicsws in this world and then started reading the technical knowledge in this world. Because of his talent, he could easily learn them as well as make adjustments suitable for himself.

    He also cleared two more low-level dungeons this week. In simple terms, he had been extremely busy.

    And today is the day Luis was looking very forward to. Because yesterday morning, Jack brought him good news that the things he requested had been prepared.

    Now at the breakfast table, Ronald, Lumine, and Alicia were looking at Luis, who seemed to be in a good mood.

    "What happened, Luis?" Ronald asked curiously.

    "It seems he is looking forward to today''s training," Lumine said with a cheerful smile.

    *Cough*

    Luis choked on his food. Alicia hurriedly gave him a ss of water.

    *Gulp*

    "You shouldn''t eat so fast," Lumine reprimanded him with a concerned look.

    Luis couldn''t help but let out a bitter smile. Ronald and Alicia averted their eyes with no intention of saying anything.

    Ronald, who had been silently eating his food, couldn''t help but nce at Luis from the corner of his eyes. Last week, when Luis returned from Almast, the report that Jack handed shocked him.

    A mine full of resources and it also has a mana vein, which means the energy inside willst many decades or even centuries. Moreover, the purchase cost was so little, almost the price of a small ordinary mountain.

    This made him wonder how did Luis do it.

    "Luis." He called out.

    "Hm?" Luis, who was eating his breakfast, looked at Ronald, wondering what happened.

    "How did you do it?"

    Ronald finally couldn''t hold back his curiosity.

    Swallowing his food, Luis asked, "Did what?"

    "That ''Mine''. You should know what kind of benefits it''s going to bring us. I can''t believe someone sold it at such a low price. I want to know how you found that mine. Jack said that even the owner believed that the energy was depleted." Ronald said excitedly.

    Lumine looked at Ronald while rolling her eyes. ''Who was the one that said we wouldn''t probe into Luis'' matters?''

    "Oh that," Luis calmly put the spoon down and said, "It''s actually simple. Anyone with a discerning eye would have found it."

    Ronald knit his brows and continued listening.

    "If the energy had depleted, the monsters wouldn''t have nested there in the first ce."

    Luis'' words made the three of them widen their eyes in realization.

    Yes, monsters need energy to survive and grow stronger. If there is no energy, why would they live there?

    "Then why was the mine empty for so many years and new Ores weren''t forming?" Ronald asked, then said. "The mana vein in the new passageway was so rich in energy, at least some low-quality Ores should have formed even on the outside."

    Luis didn''t answer and continued looking at Ronald with serious eyes. Ronald immediately understood it was a serious matter. So, understanding Luis'' thoughts, he set up an invisible sound barrier around the four of them.

    Alicia didn''t find anything wrong, but Lumine''s eyes narrowed.

    "If there is energy inside the mine and new Ores aren''t forming, then there is something absorbing it, right?" Luis paused, then continued. "There is no sighting of such a strong monster which needs so much energy. Then what else can it be?"

    "Some rare metal?" Alicia murmured without much thought.

    "Bingo!" Luis looked at her, giving a loving smile, to which she shyly lowered her head.

    Ignoring their small interaction, Ronald and Lumine continued looking at Luis, waiting for him to continue.

    "Now, for the metal that needs to absorb so much energy to form, there can only be one with the best mana conductivity."

    As Luis looked at his parents'' exaggerated expression, he couldn''t help but smile.

    "D-Don''t tell me, it''s-" Ronald said, barely holding back his excitement.

    Luis calmly looked at him and then casually said, "Yeah, it''s Omni Ore."

    Both of them slumped on the chairs and couldn''t believe their ears for a while. That''s Omni Ore, even they will try their best to find that thing.

    "How much?" Lumine asked.

    "Around 3 kg." His words were in, as if this matter was of little significance to him.

    But Ronald and Lumine couldn''t hold back their excitement.

    "Haha, this is great news." Ronaldughed heartily and asked, "So that was your purpose to visit Almast?"

    Luis didn''t deny it and nodded.

    "That means you already n to make something with it, right?" Ronald asked further.

    "Yeah, a weapon," Luis answered.

    Ronald nodded and wasn''t worried that Luis would waste the material. Moreover, even if he wastes it. That''s something Luis owns. He had no say in it.

    Luis smiled, thinking he was lucky to have such loving parents. If it was someone else, they might have tried to snatch it from him. But if that were the case, he would have never revealed his secrets to them.

    Alicia didn''t know about Omni Ore, but from Ronald and Lumine''s reaction, she assumed it was something good. She was happy for Luis and didn''t care much.

    But when she heard Luis was going to make a weapon with it, she couldn''t sit still.

    "You have a talent for crafting?" She asked in an exaggerated tone.

    From what she knows, Luis has a Martial Arts talent which is equal to her. So she assumed it was also an S-grade. Then those spells he casts, which should be something simr to her Magician Talent.

    Though she had never seen it, she had heard from servants and Lumine''s mouth that Luis is extremely good at shooting. So she assumed it was something rted to his third talent.

    But what is going on with this talk of making weapons?

    "YOU HAVE FOUR TALENTS?!!"

    ---------------

    Q: What do you guys think? Will he reveal it?

    1) Yes

    2) No

 Chapter 50: Need an Assistant!

    <h4>Chapter 50: Need an Assistant!</h4>

    Everyone looked at Alicia in unison. Feeling all eyes on her, she coughed, trying to hide her embarrassment. She felt her previous outburst was out of character. She immediately calmed down and exined.

    "I was just surprised."

    Luis smiled faintly and said, "You already know I have dual affinities. So, why can''t I have more than 3 talents?"

    Alicia felt something was wrong, but she couldn''t help but nod her head at his ''reasonable'' exnation.

    With that, Ronald lifted the sound barrier, and the breakfast came to an end.

    ***

    After his morning training with Alicia and Lumine. Luis was going to the Mansion''s basement followed by Jack.

    Some days ago, he had asked Jack to clear this ce for him and set up the things he requested in this ce.

    The basement wasrge enough and had enough space for Luis to do experiments.

    As soon as they entered the basement, Luis'' eyes fell on the boxes that were ced on one side, then on the machines and equipment which were already installed.

    Looking at the advanced machines, which he had only read about in thest few days, in front of him, he was very curious.

    Even if he didn''t have an interest in these things before, at this moment, he was very excited. It may be because he has a talent for it and he knows exactly what to do.

    Maybe if he didn''t understand any of these, he wouldn''t feel anything looking at them. But he does, and he also knows that all these are advanced machines and equipment which are used to make high-tech devices. So he looks like a child who received new toys to y with.

    Luis, one by one, checked all the machines, then he opened the boxes to check out the materials.

    It took him a few minutes to confirm everything. Nodding his head in satisfaction, he looked at Jack and said.

    "From now on, I''ll use the basement. So no one is allowed to enter without my permission."

    "Yes, Young Master."

    Jack had already expected Luis would say something like that, and it wasn''t a problem since this basement level was mostly unused.

    As soon as Jack left, a satisfied smile appeared on Luis'' face. "This is it."

    He knew a lot of money was used to buy all this, but it wasn''t a problem for their family. Also, he had already brought a lot of benefits for the family from that mine he purchased. So this little expense is nothing.

    Not that Ronald minded if Luis used all his money. But still, that didn''t mean Luis had no conscience. Moreover, since he had epted Luis'' identity, he at least wanted to be helpful to his new parents and be their proud son. After all, he couldn''t do anything for his sister in hisst life.

    ***

    Normally, Luis would need some assistants to operate all these machines and several other things. Because he could never do all that work alone, manually.

    But that was also a problem because he didn''t want someone to work for him and create unnecessary trouble. Such as leaking his secrets or damaging his data in case of being coerced by his enemies.

    Yes, he was certain once the game story starts he was going to create a lot of enemies.

    Reason one is because his fiancee is too beautiful.

    Reason two is that he was going to involve himself in the game story. So there will be a lot of conflicts.

    Reason three is because of his status as a genius child of the Suarez family, he is going to be targeted by a lot of hostile groups.

    And several other reasons that may be the case.

    Anyway, in simple terms, Luis can''t simply employ assistants, nor could he work alone. So he was going to make an assistant for himself.

    An A.I.

    If Luis wanted to just create a simple Artificial Intelligence, it wouldn''t have been so troublesome. But what he wanted to make was a full-fledged assistant. Not just some program that follows the instructions given. But a full-fledged assistant with human-level intelligence to make his work easier.

    The technology in this world is pretty advanced. There are several existing A.I. that are already capable enough to understand human emotions.

    But everything is based on arge number of data and to store that, even thousands of supeputers are not enough. To function, all those A.I. needrge data centers and all their data are collected and stored there.

    Moreover, for an A.I. to reach a level where it can understand human emotions. They are needed to be developed slowly, over time.

    But Luis neither has enough time, nor the manpower, to create such arge data center. Also, he doesn''t want to put so much effort into creating an assistant.

    Of course, he wasn''t going topromise on the quality. So what should he do? That''s when an idea came to him.

    ''Why develop the A.I. to reach the level of human consciousness? Why can''t I develop a human consciousness as a virtual assistant?''

    Although this may sound ridiculous and nonsense. Especially to those people who worked so hard to make those A.I.

    But for someone like Luis, who had both Technician and Sorceror talent, has read forbidden spells in the Ancient Magic Book, and had an extremely rare treasure that can make his theory possible, it wasn''t nonsense.

    Luis opened his Pocket Space and took out a vial full of green liquid. It was that same smelly liquid he collected before the legacy challenge.

    Looking at the vial, Luis let out a hearty smile and said, "The game''s Easter egg is going toe useful."

    "Should I start the preparations?"

    But before he could, he got a message in his mana bracelet.

    [Luis,e back for the afternoon training.] From Mom.

    "Uh, guess I can only start after the practice."

    Luis immediately ced the vial back inside the Pocket Space and started walking out of the basement.

 Chapter 51: The A.I. ’Lily’!

    <h4>Chapter 51: The A.I. ''Lily''!</h4>

    The basement of the Suarez family was already turned into a high-endboratory. Surrounded by many high-tech machines, Luis was working on a hologram, as the machine in front of him was designing a data chip. On the other table, a machine was heating the apparatus under a very high temperature. Luis gently took out the vial of green liquid and poured it inside. He was very careful with his hands. Because only he knew what kind of treasure he was holding.

    In this world, there''s a myth about a mythical grade treasure known as Soul Dew. It has been said that if you have a Soul Dew in your hands, you will obtain immortality. But this myth was never confirmed. Even in the game, Luis only heard about the myth of Soul Dew but could never obtain that treasure.

    Even if this mythical treasure was seemingly unobtainable. There was a treasure that he did obtain inside the game, and it is very well rted to the Mythical treasure Soul Dew. It is known as Soul Essence.

    Soul Essence is formed when extremely pure spiritual energy condenses and turns into liquid form, then purifies itself countless times. Of course, this green liquid wasn''t the Soul Essence, but rather the extract of Soul Essence full of ghost energy.

    And this liquid is what he is going to use as a catalyst for his Rune magic and make a human consciousness for his A. I.pletely recing the data center.

    With the help of the apparatus, Luis slowly mixed that liquid with the material of the chip and then started drawing several runes. He continued working on it for hours. His eyes werepletely focused, not even blinking.

    Luis didn''t even know how much time had passed. The chip was nearing itspletion. Finally, after drawing onest Rune he stopped.

    "It''s done."

    A small smile appeared on Luis'' tired face as he took a deep breath.

    He immediately used liquid nitrogen to cool down the Chip''s temperature. Then he impatiently connected the Chip to a Supeputer in theboratory.

    At first, nothing happened. His heart became anxious, thinking that he might have failed. Just when he was about to take that Chip out of the Super Computer. A sweet child-like female voice came from the speakers.

    [Who are you?]

    A delighted smile appeared on Luis'' lost expression as he said. "I am your Master."

    [Who am I, Master?]

    Hearing this innocent voice, a name inadvertently appeared inside Luis'' mind. "From now on, you are going to be called Lily."

    [Thank you for the name, Master.]

    She seemed to like her name a lot. ''If she was real, I wonder what she would have looked like?'' As soon as that thought crossed his mind. Luis immediatelymanded. "Lily, study all the books and information in the database, then design a form to disy yourself in holograms and projections."

    [Yes, Master, will do.]

    After that, Luis also gave her permission to enter the inte and only study from the publicwork. Because Lily gained consciousness with the help of magical means. No data or self-learning programs were needed.

    While drawing the runes on the chip, Luis also used the rune of absolute subservience. So Lily would never betray Luis or go against hismand.

    "You do as I told you. I''ll go take some rest."

    [Yes, Master.]

    The lively childish voice inadvertently brought a faint smile to Luis'' tired face.

    As he left the basement, several thoughts crossed his mind regarding his next set of ns.

    Though it took several days to make her. Now with Lily here. Luis can start his other projects, too.

    On his way to his room, Luis also met Alicia, who just came back from a stroll in her evening dress.

    "Good evening, Alicia." Though tired, Luis still greeted her enthusiastically.

    "Evening, Luis," Alicia replied subconsciously. Then, as she took a proper look at him, a frown appeared on her beautiful face. As she asked in concern, "Were you still in yourb?"

    Seeing Luis nod, Alicia sighed helplessly and then reprimanded him without hesitation. "You should take proper rest. Just look at your face. Your eyes are red from overwork and your skin also lost a lot of luster."

    In thest few days, Luis hadn''te to practice. He shut himself inside hisb and even skipped a few meals. Then made Alicia worry about his health.

    "Are you worried about me?" Luis asked with a faint smile.

    "Che, who is worried about you? I''m just worried my fiance might die from overwork even before our marriage."

    When he heard Alicia''s words, Luis smiled even more. But replied perfunctorily.

    "Yeah, well, I was about to rest just now."

    Alicia looked at him with narrowed eyes and asked. "Did you finish whatever you were making?"

    Luis looked at her in surprise and asked, "Yes, how did you know?"

    "You just seem quite rxedpared to a few days ago. So, I just thought maybe." Alicia didn''t know how to exin this, so she shook her head and asked curiously, "So, what did you make?"

    Looking at her bright eyes, Luis smiled faintly and said, "I''ll show youter."

    Although a little disappointed, Alicia also understood that Luis needed to take some rest. So she didn''t question him further.

    But suddenly she remembered something and said, "I called a Monster Oologist before. That Monster egg seems to have no problems and will probably hatch in 1 to 2 months."

    Previously, Luis had given the monster egg to Alicia for taking care of it. Hearing the estimated incubation period, Luis was a little thoughtful.

    "You still haven''t told me which monster is it." When Luis brought back the ck monster egg from Almast. Alicia was a little surprised that Luis wanted a monster pet. This also made her a little interested, wondering what monster''s egg it might be.

    "Wait for it to hatch. I am certain you will be surprised," Luis said mysteriously.

    Alicia pouted, then with slight annoyance she left the ce, leaving a sentence.

    "Hmph, just go and sleep. I''ll bring you a meal after you wake up."

    Looking in the direction she left, Luis smiled and then went to his room. He was indeed very tired and a good long rest was what he needed the most.

 Chapter 52: Alicia Meets Lily!

    <h4>Chapter 52: Alicia Meets Lily!</h4>

    *Knock*

    A beautiful ck-haired girl knocked on the rupenwood door in front of her. But even after waiting for a few seconds, there was no response.

    "It seems he is still asleep."

    With a slight hesitation, she finally opened the door.

    "I aming in~"

    As her beautiful turquoise eyes fell on the person sleeping on the bed, her lips curled up into a smile.

    She gestured to the maids behind her to bring the meal inside and then leave quietly without making a sound.

    The maids nodded, obeying their futuredy''s order, and did what was told.

    As soon as the maids left Luis'' room. Alicia''s attention turned back to the sleeping Luis. With a faint smile, she walked up to him.

    "Luis~"

    She called out to him, but he didn''t wake up. Alicia raised her voice and called out to him once again.

    "Luis!"

    "Hmm..."

    A slight groan was heard, but Luis still didn''t wake up. Alicia raised her hand to shake him a little.

    But abruptly.

    "!"

    "Kya?!!"

    Her hand was grabbed, and with a strong pull, Alicia fell on the bed. Then Luis rolled around and hugged her like a body pillow.

    Alicia was in a daze for a moment as she remembered how she ended up in this embarrassing position. Shame clouded her face as she gritted her teeth and red at him.

    "LUIS!"

    Alicia called out sharply.

    But when she saw him still pretending to be asleep. Her expression became even more furious.

    "Good, good, just keep pretending and die."

    Saying that, she raised her free hand and a sharp icicle appeared above them. With a wave of her hand, she shot it toward the sleeping Luis.

    Just when the icicle was about to hit his face. Luis'' body disappeared, and the icicle stabbed a hole in the bed at Luis'' previous position.

    Appearing a few meters away from her, Luisined aggrievedly.

    "What was that for?!"

    Alicia rolled her eyes and looked at him coldly.

    "Do you still need to ask?"

    Luis pretended to be thick skin and said, "Isn''t it fine? We are engaged."

    Alicia''s face was a little red. She looked at him with a in expression and said, "It''s still too early for that."

    "That means we can do itter," Luis said with a smirk.

    Alicia, subsided anger, rose to another level. She raised her hand and a dozen of such icicles appeared surrounding Luis.

    "Hey, hey, I was just kidding," Luis said, a little nervously. Although he could easily dodge them, he knew angering her further will have no good ending for him. After all, who asked her to be his fiancee?

    Alicia didn''t say anything, nor did she remove those icicles as she kept looking in his direction.

    Seeing this, Luis could only back down this time. But inwardly, he decided to punish this aggressive girl a little in the future.

    "Okay, I''m sorry. Okay. I won''t surprise you like that anymore."

    Alicia didn''t know why. Instead of feeling satisfied, she felt a little annoyed when she heard that he wouldn''t do such things anymore.

    Shaking her head, she snorted and said, "Just don''t forget what you said."

    "I won''t." Although Luis said that with a serious expression. Inwardly, he was smiling, looking at her reaction. ''Even if I can''t surprise you like this. There are still many ways to surprise you.''

    Alicia flicked her fingers and all the icicles disappeared into thin air. Then, looking at him, she said, "The meal is here. Go and wash yourself. I''ll wait."

    Luis nodded and went to the bathroom to wash his face and clean up a little.

    A few minutester, Luis came out as he looked at Alicia''s back, setting up his meal on the table.

    He walked up to her with light footsteps and praised her.

    "You will be a virtuous wife in the future."

    Alicia, who was a little surprised when she heard his words, immediately became a little shy.

    "Hmph, consider yourself lucky."

    Luis nodded wholeheartedly, agreeing with her.

    "Well, indeed, I hit a jackpot."

    "You and your big mouth." Although her tone sounded sharp, the sweet smile on her face betrayed her.

    ***

    As Luis was still eating his meal, he looked up at Alicia, who was staring at him, and asked, "Aren''t you going to sleep? It''s quitete." Luis looked at the time. It was 11 pm.

    Alicia shook her head and said impatiently, "I''ll sleep after you show me your invention."

    Luis looked at her in surprise. "I didn''t think you would be so interested."

    Alicia nodded and admitted, "Normal gadgets or inventions wouldn''t have interested me."

    "But," she raised her head sharply, and looking at him she said, "If it''s something you made. I''m sure it won''t be something simple."

    "Oh, why do you think so?" Luis asked curiously.

    "Because you don''t do anything meaningless. Everything you do is properly nned. As if you know those things will be useful in the future." She answered a little thoughtfully.

    Luis'' eyes narrowed hearing her keen analysis. ''Sure enough, even if she is young. You can''t underestimate her.''

    Shrugging his hands, he said, "I just like to properly utilize whatever is avable to me."

    Alicia nodded her head and didn''t say anything. Just continued looking at him, waiting for him to finish his meal.

    *Beep*

    At this moment, Luis got a notification in his mana bracelet that made him smile.

    Then he looked at Alicia and said, "You don''t have to wait for me to finish eating. We can see it now."

    Luis didn''t wait for her to question anymore and called out.

    "Lily,e out for me."

    Under Alicia''s confused eyes, a holographic projection screen was turned on inside the room. The next moment, a holographic protection of a blonde little girl wearing a white dress appeared inside the room.

    [Greetings Master, My Lady.]

    Looking at the hologram of the little girl in front of her, Alicia opened her mouth to ask.

    "Who are you?"

    Lily''s projection bowed slightly as she introduced herself in her childish, immature voice.

    [Lady Alicia, I''m Lily, an artificial intelligence created by Master.]

 Chapter 53: Low Grade Illusions!

    <h4>Chapter 53: Low Grade Illusions!</h4>

    Alicia was surprised as she looked at the adorable Lily curiously. "Are you really an AI?"

    She was having a hard time believing it. Even though it was a holographic projection. It was way too realistic for it to be an A.I. But thinking that Luis made it; she wasn''t that surprised.

    [Yes, I was specifically made for the purpose of serving Master Luis.] The Little Holographic Lily answered.

    Hearing Lily''s words, Luis stopped eating for a second. He raised up his head and said, "After me, set the highest levelmand permission for Alicia."

    [As you wish, Master.]

    Alicia was a little moved when she heard Luis'' words. But she knew if she said anything, he will tease her again. That''s why she decided to keep quiet at that moment.

    Ignoring him, she looked over at Lily and asked. "What can you do, Lily?"

    [To answer Lady Alicia''s question.]

    Alicia hastily stopped her and said, "Just call me sister." Although Lily was just an AI, Alicia was feeling rather odd seeing a little girl calling her formally.

    [Yes, Sister Alicia.] Lily said with a smile. Although she didn''t know yet why, but she felt very happy when Alicia asked her to call her sister.

    Luis was surprised when he saw Alicia acting generously towards Lily. From her personality, he didn''t think she would associate with someone so easily.

    "Do you like her?" He asked curiously.

    Alicia looked at him with a smile and answered, "Lily is someone you made. That''s why I can trust her."

    Her indirect words which meant that she trusted him, made him let out a faint smile.

    ***

    After that, Alicia didn''t care about Luis and got busy chatting with Lily. After Luispleted eating his meal, he kept the dishes on the side for the maids to take them away. Then he curiously listened in on Alicia and Lily''s conversation.

    "You think this is good?"

    [Based on your physical appearance. Any of these dresses will look good on you, Sis.]

    Seeing that Alicia was asking the help of an AI to choose dresses for her. Luis was dumbfounded. He wanted toin. ''This wasn''t the type of use I created her for.''

    But looking at Alicia''s smile while chatting with Lily, he thought maybe it was fine this way too.

    "You little girl got a sweet mouth just like your master."

    [Hehe, after all, I am a creation of Master.]

    Luis had ck lines on his forehead. But he endured it and said. "Let Lily connect with your mana bracelet. Then she can talk with you anytime."

    Hearing Luis'' reminder, Alicia didn''t waste any time and immediately let Lily ess her mana bracelet. Then she tried looking at Lily in the hologram of her mana bracelet.

    Luis thought of something and said, "Lily is different from other AI. She is more humanlike, so don''t teach her bad things."

    When Alicia heard Luis'' words that she might teach bad things to Lily. She red at him coldly and said, "I won''t. She is just like a small sister to me."

    "Oh really? But I am the one who made her, so aren''t we more like parents?"

    When Alicia heard this, there was a slight blush on her face.

    "Lily, from now on call us Mommy and Daddy, Okay?" Luis said with a teasing grin.

    "No, don''t!!" Alicia shouted immediately. Then she looked at him furiously and left the room hastily.

    Seeing her leaving back, Luis immediately shouted, "Thanks for the meal and waking me up, Alicia."

    When he saw that she didn''t respond, he immediately added, "From now on, I want to wake up in your embrace every day."

    Alicia almost stumbled upon hearing his shameless words. She turned to look at him fiercely. But she didn''t say anything and left. She neither agreed nor denied, which surprised Luis.

    ''No way. Will she really do it?''

    Shaking his head, Luis closed the door as this was something he will get an answer for tomorrow. There was no point thinking hard about this.

    ***

    Now that the invention of AI ''Lily'' isplete. Luis'' next main project will be creating a Magic gun. Of course, Omni Ore is going to be the main material he will use, but he has yet to decide on the type of Magic gunpatible with hisbat style. Also, if he is going to use such a precious material, he can''t do it half-heartedly.

    So Luis decided to go to his family''s shooting range tomorrow to choose a model for his Magic Gun. Also, now that he already had a good sleep and was full of energy, he decided to practice some Illusion spells.

    Not the ones from the Ancient Magic Book. But an illusion spell book Ronald sent him.

    Luis was currently practicing a low-grade illusion spell called Stealth. Different from the Stealth Skill that his mother has, which allows her to hide her presence to the minimum. Stealth Spell just lets people with lower mental strength than the user subconsciously ignore him.

    Although Luis knew he won''t be using this spell much but even if it was low grade, it was still useful. At least when he wants to avoid the eyes of normal people. It will save some unnecessary trouble.

    Then Luis used a Phantom Cloning spell and created an intangible clone of himself. It has nobat ability. But can be useful for distracting enemies.

    Luis tried touching it, but his hand went past the clone. ''At least it looks real enough.''

    After that, Luis tried many simr low-grade illusions. Although the attack power of low-grade Illusion spells is notparable to magic spells. But it can still be applied in various tactics.

    While flipping through the Illusion Spell Book, Luis directly kept the book aside with a plop.

    "It doesn''t have any high or advanced-grade illusion spells."

    Luis took out a mysterious ck book from inside his pocket space and stared at it. Soon his lips curled up into a smile as he said.

    "Sure enough, the illusion spells inside this Ancient Magic Book are far more interesting."

 Chapter 54: Shooting Range!

    <h4>Chapter 54: Shooting Range!</h4>

    The next morning, when Luis woke up, he let out a disappointed sigh. "Maybe I expected too much."

    Yes, he didn''t find any trace of Alicia. Although he knew the possibility was very low. It didn''t stop him from expecting more.

    Shaking his head, Luis went to the bathroom andpleted his morning rituals.

    When he went down for breakfast. Luis found out that everyone had already left. The maid told him that Ronald went out because of some business, while Lumine and Alicia were on the training ground.

    Since Luis had intended to go to the shooting range now. He didn''t go to the training ground and left directly for the shooting range after having breakfast.

    The shooting range is not far from the estate. So Luis just made a call and decided to run all the way there on his own.

    Since upgrading to F rank. Luis'' physique has improved a lot. So this short run couldn''t even be considered a warm-up.

    When he arrived at the shooting range. Luis saw a toned woman in military attire standing there, waiting for him.

    "Hey, Shauna. It''s been a while."

    When Shauna heard Luis'' greeting, she immediately walked up to him with a smile and greeted him back.

    "Good morning Young Master. It''s been a while since the young master has been here."

    Luis could see that the happiness of meeting him and the admiration in her eyes weren''t fake. But he knew the reason behind it. So he didn''t think too much.

    Suddenly Shauna showed an excited expression on her face as she said, "Young Master, all the sets are prepared in your private lounge."

    Luis nodded and asked her to lead the way.

    ***

    "Is this all?"

    "Yes, Young Master."

    In front of Luis, a model of all types of guns in their shooting range wasid out for him to use.

    "Lily, I''ll test all these guns one by one. Based on my physique and technique, record and analyze all the data."

    {Yes, Master.} Lily''s sweet childish voice came from his mana bracelet. There was a scanning function in the mana bracelet, so Lily didn''t have any trouble and got to work.

    Shauna was confused, but she didn''t ask, nor did she care much. The only thing she was interested in was Luis''s former words.

    With a twinkle in her eyes, Shauna looked at Luis'' figure enthusiastically.

    Luis knew Shauna was crazy for guns. She also admires him, not for his status or his handsome face. But because of his amazing marksmanship.

    So without caring about her anymore, Luis started picking up guns and started shooting and trying them out while Lily was busy analyzing.

    From various types of handguns, pistols, rifles, shotguns, bolt action, sniper rifles, automatic firearms, and many others.

    For the next few hours in that private shooting range. Only sounds of gunshots were heard.

    Luis looked at the still and moving targets in the range of 20, 50, 100, and 500 meters. All of them only had holes in the center. All of his shots were bullseye.

    Shauna was so excited that she was grinning ear to ear. While praising Luis'' marksmanship on the sidelines.

    "Lily, are you done?"

    {The data has been recorded, Master. The analysis is being made, only the requirements need to be mentioned for further analysis and the results toe out.}

    Luis nodded thoughtfully and said, "First, try designing samples based on your judgment. I will make the changester."

    Lily''s hologram figure in his mana bracket nodded and disappeared in the next moment.

    When Shauna saw that Luis was done doing whatever he was doing. She walked over and praised him heartily. "Young Master''s Marksmanship has be even sharper."

    Luis showed a faint smile and said, "Yeah, there''s been some improvement." Then he inwardly continued, ''I got a Perception Skill.''

    Shauna didn''t think Luis'' new skill would be the reason for such improvement. She just assumed young master Luis should have been working hard.

    "By the way, young master." Seeing that, Luis was in the mood to talk. Shauna said. "Congrattions on your engagement."

    "You already know?"

    "Well, it''s not a secret anymore. Everyone is talking about it."

    By everyone, she meant all the workers in the Suarez Estate.

    Luis nodded thoughtfully and wondered how widespread this news was by now.

    "When will the engagement ceremony be, young master?"

    Shauna asked,pletely oblivious to Luis'' thoughts.

    Luis raised his head with a faint grin and said, "There''s no rush. It has not been announced yet."

    Shauna nodded her head and didn''t probe further. She knew it might be disrespectful if she continued asking him.

    "Well then Shauna, I''ll go back."

    "Be safe, young master."

    ***

    After returning to the mansion, Luis immediately went to hisboratory in the basement and stated his requirements to Lily for the design of his Magic Gun.

    "... You don''t need to care about recoil and magazines. Try to make the sizepact while also giving the best performance. For the gun''s model, just try a virtual run with the requirements on all the models and try developing the design model based on them."

    {Yes, master. Just leave it to me.}

    Lily said confidently.

    Luis nodded his head in affirmation of her abilities. But looking at her, he pondered for a moment and asked.

    "By the way, Lily, why did you change your appearance?"

    Lily''s current holographic appearance was just like a little assistant researcher. Wearing a white researcher coat over her yellow dress and cute round sses on her small chubby face.

    A sweet smile appeared on her holographic protection. As she said.

    {Sister Alicia told me to wear this when I am in theb.}

    "You guys sure have be close." Shaking his head, Luis didn''t probe further. Because he could see Lily was really happy when she mentioned Alicia.

    ''Is this the difference between an AI who slowly develops emotions after inputting a lot of data and a human consciousness that has been turned into an AI?''

    ''Because if you ignore her abilities as an AI. Her current personality is extremely simr to a child of simr age to her appearance.''

 Chapter 55: Magic Gun!

    <h4>Chapter 55: Magic Gun!</h4>

    A few days passed as Luis was focused on his training and the creation of his Magic Gun. After several virtual trial runs, the design for the Magic Gun was finally decided.

    The design they worked on looked extremely simr to a modified desert eagle. This was going to be his initial design for the Magic Gun.

    Jack had already prepared the materials that Luis wanted. So the process was extremely smooth.

    Luis disintegrated the Omni Ore and carved runes into its molecules. Such as the Transformation rune, restructuring, power control, mana input efficiency, return, owner''s seal, and many other simr runes.

    If not for his amazing talent and high-end equipment, it wouldn''t have been possible for him to handle the Omni Ore.

    And finally, today, after a week of hard work, the Magic Gun waspleted.

    {Congrattions Master on your invention!} Lily said cheerfully.

    "It''s all thanks to you. Otherwise, it would have been extremely difficult for me alone."

    With Lily''s help, the development process was shortened from half a year to a few days.

    {Happy to serve you, Master.} For Luis'' affirmation, Lily was very happy.

    "Okay, I''ll go and try it out." With those words, Luis left theb. Now with Lily here, the security system in hisb has been improved a lot. Without his permission, Lily won''t let anyone enter.

    ***

    When Luis came out, he met Lumine and Alicia in the living room.

    "Hey Mom, Alicia. Aren''t you guys going to the training ground?"

    Luis asked as he saw Lumine wasn''t in her training suit. Instead, she was wearing a formal dress, seemingly ready to go somewhere.

    "Oh, Luis."

    Both Lumine and Alicia turned to look at him simultaneously.

    "I am going to the guild. There''s some urgent business on your father''s side."

    Since Lumine didn''t take the initiative to tell him. Luis didn''t ask what the urgent business was.

    "So, is Alicia going to train alone?"

    "Well, she was about to..!" Lumine was about to say something, but she stopped and looked at Luis carefully, as she asked. "By the way, where are you going?"

    "Oh, the weapon I was making ispleted. So I was going to the shooting range to test it."

    "Is that so? Then that''s perfect!" Lumine suddenly eximed. Then, looking at Alicia, she said, "Alicia was about to go to a dungeon to try her new sword skills. Why don''t you two go together? You can also test your weapon there."

    Alicia and Luis looked at each other and agreed.

    ''It''s fine either way. Maybe it''s better to test this on monsters.''

    "Okay, kids, be safe. I''ll be on my way." With those words, Lumine left in a hurry.

    Seeing her leaving back, Luis was thoughtful. But Alicia''s question brought his attention back.

    "So, what did you make?"

    When he looked back, Luis saw that Alicia was standing very close to him. Looking at him curiously.

    "Let''s go. I''ll show you on the way."

    Alicia nodded and followed after him. The dungeon they were going to is known as Goblin Camp. It''s an F-rank dungeon with no dungeon boss.

    Goblins are quite clever monsters. With weapons in hand andrge numbers, they can be pretty dangerous. They cane up with several tactics to besiege the enemy.

    To improvebat senses and battle experience, they are good opponents.

    While the driver was taking them to the Goblin Camp dungeon. Under Alicia''s eager eyes, Luis finally took out the Magic Gun from his Pocket Space.

    "Wow!" Alicia eximed, looking at the shiny surface of the gun. Just with one look, she could feel the mysteriousness of the gun.

    After carefully looking at the surface of the gun, she asked. "What are these patterns?"

    "Runes," Luis answered ndly. But the driver, on the other hand, sucked a cold breath.

    In the current market, any item with rune carvings is extremely rare and can be sold for millions of rs. (A.N:-rs = USD)

    Alicia just curiously looked at it for a minute, then gave it back to Luis. "It''s not as good as Lily."

    Seeing her uninterested and disappointed look, Luis'' lip twitched. He wanted toin, ''Of course, you are not interested. You can''t chat with it, nor could it help you select dresses.''

    He could only sigh and keep the grievances in his heart. These days Alicia had already been treating Lily as her little sister. They have be good chat buddies and are quite attached.

    So it''s normal that she is not much interested in a weapon.

    When Luis kept the magic gun back inside his pocket space. Alicia suddenly turned to him and asked.

    "Luis, is it possible to make a body for Lily?"

    When Luis heard this, a frown appeared on his face. But, after thinking for a moment, he shook his head and said. "Not anytime soon."

    "That means is it possible in the future?" Alicia asked excitedly.

    Luis nodded and said, "A robot body is possible to handle but if you want her to have an organic body, *Sigh* it''s difficult."

    His talent is a technician, he is not an organic expert. But someone with talent in those fields might be able to help him create a body for her.

    Alicia didn''t want her cute little sister to have a disgusting metal body. So she scrapped that idea immediately.

    ***

    As they entered the dungeon. Alicia took out a short sword and took a battle stance.

    Luis also took out his Magic Gun and said, "I''ll cover you."

    Alicia nodded and rushed ahead, ready to chop these green disgusting monsters.

    *Krieeee*

    *Swish*

    *Chop*

    "Her sword skills have improved a lot. As expected of an S-rank Swordsmanship Talent."

    Sighing, Luis injected a small amount of mana into the runes in the handle and pointed the ck gun with golden patterns at the iing goblins.

    "Let''s start."

    With those words, Luis pulled the trigger, and the next moment an extremely fastser bullet made of mana was shot and punctured a big hole in the goblin''s green forehead, killing it.

 Chapter 56: ’Kill the Scumbag!’

    <h4>Chapter 56: ''Kill the Scumbag!''</h4>

    More than a month has passed since Luis arrived in this world. His strength has been improving steadily. His daily training under Lumine andbat experience in dungeons made him develop faster. The same can be said for Alicia. Under Lumine''s guidance, her swordsmanship has improved by leaps and bounds.

    At the breakfast table.

    Lumine, who was eating her breakfast, looked up to see Luis and Alicia, who were eating quietly, and a soft smile appeared on her face. For their growth in thest month, Lumine can only say she was very proud. She was certain by the time the Academy starts, these two will be at the top among their peers. Moreover, with a wide margin.

    Finishing her breakfast, she neatly ced the spoon on her te. Then, gently wiping her mouth with a napkin, she called out, attracting everyone''s attention.

    "Luis! Alicia!"

    "Huh? What is it, Mom?" Luis asked subconsciously.

    Alicia also looked at her, but because Luis had already asked, she just showed a puzzled expression.

    "You two have been working hard for many weeks and the result is also quite good."

    When they heard her praise, a smile appeared on Luis and Alicia''s face.

    "But excessive hard work is also not good. Your body and mind also need rest. So today will be your rest day."

    Hearing this, Ronald, who was reading a dungeon article through the hologram, also nodded in agreement. "Indeed, rest is also important."

    For thest few days, Luis had been very busy with practice and dungeon runs. But now that he has a day of rest, maybe he could spend some time studying spells. ''I should read new Lightning Spells.''

    As if reading his thoughts, Lumine immediately said. "No studying and research." ring at Luis, she said. "You are prohibited from entry into yourb."

    "Wha?" Luis wanted toin

    "Rest means rest." But Lumine was stubborn.

    Alicia, who wanted to continue practicing swordsmanship secretly, under Lumine''s gaze, also reluctantly nodded.

    ***

    Under Lumine''s suggestion. Luis and Alicia decided to go on a date.

    "What do you want to do, Alicia?"

    Alicia pondered for a moment, and uttered. "A movie."

    "A movie, huh? Let''s go then."

    Sinceing to this world, Luis, who hadn''t had time to experience the entertainment in this world, also felt it was a nice idea.

    "Lily! Book two seats for a popr movie."

    {Yes, master!} Lily''s voice sounded from the hologram.

    "Lily, book the tickets for ''Kill the Scumbag''."

    {Yes, sister Alicia.}

    Luis didn''t know what to say after hearing the movie title. But since Alicia wanted to watch it. He has no say nor that he had any rmendations. The previous Luis had no interest in movies. So, this should be his first time going to a movie theatre in this world.

    ''I wonder how different it is from my previous world.'' Luis had some expectations for this world.

    ''It''s just that the title is concerning.''

    ***

    Riding a hover-bike, they arrived at the Entertainment za. The very center of entertainment in Tryston City. Such as movie theatres, malls, Amusement Park, food districts, and VR Centers.

    As they entered the movie theatre. Luis shed their ticket to the staff. Confirming it, they responded quickly and gave them two metal headbands. Then they shifted their attention to the next person and repeated the process.

    Luis and Alicia entered a dark, circr hall. Unlike his previous world, there was no projection screen inside the hall. Soon, they found the VIP seats that Lily booked for them.

    Taking their seats, Luis wore the headband and helped Alicia wear it as well. It didn''t take long for the movie to start and both of them found themselves inside the virtual world. The experience of the characters moving in front of you is like a living person, and you can get to see them from every angle. Luis could only describe his experience with one word ''amazing''.

    ''This is much better than my previous life.''

    ''It''s just that the story is not to my taste.''

    ***

    After the movie, they went shopping, had lunch, spent time chatting in a park and finally, in the evening, they decided to return home. For Luis, it was a very fulfilling day. He also felt that he had gotten a lot closer to Alicia.

    Just when Luis was thinking of asking her whether to have dinner outside and maybe continue their date a little longer. He received a call from Jack.

    "Hmm, Jack?"

    Luis'' steps halted and so did Alicia''s.

    "Pick it up. Maybe it''s something important."

    Jack knew that they were on a date and with his character, he wouldn''t disturb them unless it was an urgent matter.

    Luis nodded and picked up the call. The next moment, Jack''s hologram appeared in front of them.

    "What is it, Jack?"

    With a serious expression on his face, Jack said.

    [... Master Luis! There is movement on the target''s side.]

    As soon as Luis heard this, his eyes became sharp. Alicia also looked at him as if asking for something, seeing him nod and confirming her thoughts. Her eyes also became fierce.

    "Keep tracking him. We are on our way."

    With that, the call ended. But the mood of Luis and Alicia was difficult to describe. Luis could feel the faint killing intent Alicia was emitting.

    "Calm down, Alicia. It''s not time yet."

    Hearing Luis'' words, Alicia took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. But the killing intent didn''t diminish one bit. Instead, she became even more and more excited.

    "Let''s go to the guild first."

    Alicia didn''t speak a word and just nodded. But Luis knew she was the most excited person currently. For all these years, she had been searching for their traces and now she was so close to finding some clues. How can she retain herposure?

    "Don''t get excited early, Alicia. Let''s first find out what happened."

    "I know."

    Their current location wasn''t far from the guild. Twenty minutester, they were standing outside the guild building.

 Chapter 57: Raid Team Assembled!

    <h4>Chapter 57: Raid Team Assembled!</h4>

    Entering the guild, Luis and Alicia were led inside the monitoring room. There they met Jack, who was talking to a brown-haired, thin man wearing sses. At the sudden appearance of the two, the man coughed and spoke in a respectful tone.

    "Greetings Master Luis and Lady Alicia."

    Then, giving a gentlemanly bow, he introduced himself. "I am Derd, a B-rank awakened and also a member of the intelligence team of the Guild."

    Luis felt that he was familiar with this person, but didn''t know where. ''Was he a character in the game?'' Even if he was, Luis couldn''t remember. ''Well, that''s not important right now.''

    Giving a slight nod, he said. "Nice to meet you, Derd."

    Then, turning to look at Jack, he asked. "What did you find, Jack?"

    "You were right, Master Luis. Ren Varnish is indeed connected to that organization."

    Alicia, who had already expected it because of her confidence in Luis, still couldn''t stop the trembling of her hands. Not because of fear, but because of anger and excitement. Finally, after all these years, she could take her revenge.

    Luis noticed Alicia''s abnormality but didn''t say anything. Instead, he looked at Jack and asked calmly.

    "Did you find out where they are?"

    Hearing Luis'' question, Alicia also calmed down and brought her attention back to the conversation.

    Jack didn''t answer. Instead, he turned his head to the thin man beside him and gestured something. Adjusting his sses, Derd nodded seriously.

    With a few clicks on the screen beside him, Derd turned on the hologram. The next moment, what appeared in front of everyone was a map of a forest terrain.

    Then, zooming in, Jack showed the picture of a ruin and said expressionlessly.

    "These are the ruins of the fallen kingdom. And also, their current base."

    His statement shocked Luis. "A ruin of the fallen kingdom?"

    Derd nodded his head and said. "A decade ago, that ce has been searched and nothing of use was found. So it was left as it is and it has now be a monster-infested zone."

    Luis nodded, remembering the details of that ce. ''Isn''t this the area where the hallucination herb is found? No wonder this ce is left like that. No monster would leave the forest became of their addiction to that herb.''

    ''But that ruin, isn''t that where the Ruined Temple of the summoner''s quest is?''

    Luis didn''t expect the organization''s previous base to be there.

    ''I wonder, did they not find the artifact or did they deliberately leave it there?''

    Whatever it was, Luis didn''t care. For now, what he cares most about is.

    "Lily, scan the area and prepare the best battle n."

    {Yes, Master.} Her voice sounded from the speakers inside the monitoring room.

    Derd was surprised when he heard Lily''s voice. But looking at the reactions of others, he also stood quietly.

    Alicia, who heard Luis'' statement, glinted in her eyes and her palms clenched into tight fists.

    Then, looking at Jack, Luis immediatelymanded.

    "Jack, mobilize a raid team. We are going to wipe them out."

    But before Jack could say anything, a loud voice interrupted them.

    "They are here!"

    "What! Dad?!" Luis was surprised as he saw Ronald entering the monitoring room imposingly. Lumine was also following behind him.

    "Uncle?! Aunt?!"

    Alicia was also surprised as she looked at them.

    Ronald walked up to Luis and said, "The team is ready. They are waiting for yourmands."

    As Jack had already reported to Ronald before contacting Luis. Ronald has already prepared the raid team to assemble.

    Luis was taken aback for a moment. Then asked unsurely.

    "Dad, is it alright for me tomand them in your ce?"

    Ronald looked at his son with a smile and said. "Of course, I trust you won''t disappoint me."

    Luis nodded solemnly and said. "You can rest assured, Dad."

    Ronald smiled in satisfaction.

    At this moment, Lumine went up to hug Alicia and said. "I am going to fight, too."

    Luis wasn''t much surprised when he heard his mother say that. In the face of the murderers of her best friend who also attempted to kill her son, how can she remain calm?

    {Master Luis, the raid n is ready.}

    "Good job, Lily. Send it to the raid team."

    He knew that the raid team members were all veterans. They will be able to assess it well.

    Then finally Luis turned to look at Alicia, who was also looking at him with fierceness in her eyes. With a faint smile on his face, he uttered.

    "It''s time for revenge."

    ***

    *Chop* *Chop* *Chop* (The whirring sounds of helicopters.)

    Looking at the tandem-rotor helicopter in front of him which looked extremely simr to the Boeing CH-47 Chinook from his previous life, Luis shouted with mana in filled in his voice.

    "Everyone follow up!"

    All the raid team members were experienced veterans. They all knew Luis'' identity and were extremely optimistic about the battle n he sent. So even if theirmander was just a teenager, who was decades younger than them. In front of suchpetence, they had no qualms following hismand.

    Only Derd walked up to Luis and reminded him. "Master Luis, this is an A-rank mission. We can use transport circles."

    It was not that he wanted to oppose Luis. He just felt it was unnecessary.

    In the guild, for the missions far from Tryston city excluding the missions below C rank, the guild members are already ustomed to using Transport Circles.

    Luis shook his head with a chuckle and said. "I just want to experience this kind of feeling for my first raid mission."

    Hearing this, Derd seemed to realize something, and nodded knowingly.

    In fact, it was not only Derd, but everyone in the raid team thought that Luis was just being cost efficient and was giving excuses.

    Jack looked at Luis skeptically. But of course, he didn''t raise his doubts.

    Lumine pouted and didn''t believe him at all. She knew there must be a reason. Otherwise, why would Luis, who drinks millions worth of elixirs every day, care about transport costs?

    Alicia and Ronald were the same. They knew Luis must have a reason to do this.

    And sure enough, as soon as everyone sat inside the helicopter, Luis said.

    "Jack, Lily, I want the information regarding this mission to be hidden for as long as possible. Especially it shouldn''t reach the imperial city."

    His tone was extremely solemn as he continued.

    "I don''t want either the Church or the Royal family to know about it until after the mission."

    ------------------------

    (A.N:- Information regarding the fallen kingdom will be exined in theter volume.)

 Chapter 58: The Raid!

    <h4>Chapter 58: The Raid!</h4>

    A gloomy forest, full of hideous and terrifying man-eating monsters and a bone-chilling darkness. The sound of the leaves shifting against each other as the foreboding winds blew past the edges, gave off a dangerous and terrifying aura. Dark clouds hovered over the forest as the rain pelted down, giving off a spooky feeling. Deep inside the forest where the trees were sparse, and the wood felt lifeless and cold, were the ruins of the fallen kingdom. This was also the current base of the assassin organization and the target of tonight''s mission.

    A tandem-rotor helicopternded inside the forest,pletely hidden from any monitoring because of the stealth artifacts.

    *Beep*

    "Lily, are we clear?"

    {Yes, Master.}

    Within a few seconds, several people in high-end battle suits disembarked in proper formation. In front of all these veteran members of the guild stood a teenager in a ck and red battle suit with an extremely solemn expression on his face. Beside him stood a ck-haired beautiful girl wearing a light blue battle suit and had an icy cold expression on her face, barely suppressing her killing intent.

    "Everyone should be clear about today''s mission?"

    To Luis'' question, everyone gave their silent acquiescence. Everyone in the raid team is an elite of the guild and they have experienced a lot of things. Luis was also clear about this, so without any further ado, he said.

    "Let''s start the operation."

    The next moment, Lumine''s sharp voice sounded,

    "Team Alpha to the West."

    Giving a faint nod to Luis, she left with the Alpha team members.

    "Team Beta to the South."

    Jack''s deep voice sounded as he also left with the Beta team members.

    "Team Delta to the Northeast."

    With those words, Ronald also left with the Delta team members.

    Lumine, Jack, and Ronald were leading the Alpha, Beta, and Delta teams, respectively.

    Now only the members of the Support Gamma team, which was led by Derd and Luis and Alicia as themanders, were left.

    A minuteter, tapping on his mana bracelet, Luis asked.

    "Lily, is everyone in position?"

    The next second, Lily''s childish voice sounded.

    {Yes, Master. Everyone is in position, but...}

    Feeling the distress in her words, he asked with a frown.

    "What happened?"

    {The enemy is on alert.}

    "Did any of them escape?" Luis asked tentatively.

    {No, but from their movements, it seems they are nning an ambush.}

    Hearing this, Luis'' frown eased a bit. As he said with a sigh. "In that case, it''s fine. It''s toote for them to do anything."

    Tapping on themunicator earpiece, he gave themand.

    "Attack!"

    As if answering hismand, the next second, the sounds of heavy bombardments sounded.

    *Boom*

    *Boom*

    The raid has begun.

    ***

    Ronald bombarded the assassin''s base with his advanced magic spells. Completely showing off the might of an S-rank Overlord Magician.

    "This is what you get for harming my son!"

    With a loud exmation. Ronald chanted another spell.

    "Ultimate Spell-White Super Nova."

    A white orb of energy the size of a tennis ball formed above his right palm. If observed closely, the white orb had a special pattern on it.

    "Take this!"

    The next moment, a white light shed, and a big explosion sounded as if a missile had hit.

    *Kaboom*

    What was left of the aftermath was a big crater and a part of the ruin was missing. Even the clouds hovering above the ruins were dispersed. Hence, the rain stopped.

    ***

    *Kaboom*

    Hearing the sound of the explosion, Lumine''s lips curled as she shouted.

    "They have already started! We can''tg! Let''s show them who the boss is!"

    "OOHH!!"

    With a loud cheer, the members of the Alpha team rushed in.

    The assassins have already set up an ambush to attack the infiltrating party. Normally they can easily take out a party of B-rank awakeneds, or even critically injure an A-rank. But in front of Lumine, their ambush was nothing.

    "Heh! Small tricks~!"

    With a sneer at the corner of her mouth and a ridiculing expression on her face. Lumine unsheathed her curved sword andunched a series of sword shes.

    "Aaah!"

    "URGH!"

    As their ambush failed, the assassins and the Alpha team were now in a fray. Lumine was moving in front, chopping those assassins and clearing out the way for the Alpha team.

    "This one''s for Maria!"

    *sh*

    "GAAHH"

    "And this one is for Luis!"

    *Chop*

    "AAAH!"

    Venting her anger, and dancing in the middle of the battle, Lumine had already started a bloodbath.

    ***

    On Jack''s side, the Beta team has already killed a dozen of assassins. All the assassins they encountered had the strength of C and B rank.

    ''It seems young master was right. Most of the assassins consist of C and B rank and only a few are A rank.''

    There were no S ranks on the assassin''s side, so there was no suspense, and this raid was bound to be finished soon.

    The strength of the raid team was overkill. But it was better to prepare in case of extraordinary circumstances. Fortunately, everything went as nned.

    {Master, the raid is estimated to end within 5 minutes.}

    "So soon?" Luis was a bit surprised, as this result was beyond his expectations.

    {With Dad and Mom participating it went better than expected.}

    Luis nodded with a smile, which froze a secondter.

    Raising his brows, he asked, "Mom? Dad?"

    {They allowed me to call them as such.} Lily answered innocently.

    Hearing this, Luis'' lips twitched as he sighed a momentter. ''I should have expected this.''

    Shaking his head, Luis put aside those thoughts and turned to look at Alicia beside him. ''It seems she heard us.''

    Ignoring the cold expression on her face, Luis looked at her with a smile and said a simple sentence. "Our revenge hase to fruition."

    Alicia had also heard what Lily said to Luis. Knowing that her mother''s killers were being brought to justice, Alicia''s cold heart couldn''t help but feel nk. Hearing Luis'' sentence, Alicia just had one thought in her mind. ''Is this it?''

    ''I have been imagining this result for all these years, but now that it hase true, why does my heart feel so empty?''

    ''Is it because I didn''t kill them with my own hands?''

 Chapter 59: End of the Lonely Winter!

    <h4>Chapter 59: End of the Lonely Winter!</h4>

    Suddenly, a memory shed through her mind. It was the memory of the day when she first met Luis. It was about the talk they had in the garden at Suarez'' family manor.

    ''Is this what he meant when he said, -"I want you to live your life to the fullest from now on. Not just make revenge your life''s goal."?''

    ''Is this the emptiness he was talking about?''

    Thinking of this, Alicia''s lips trembled, and an indescribable emotion surged inside her heart. With a shutter of her lips, she finally uttered two words.

    "Thank you."

    Luis was surprised by Alicia''s sudden ''Thank you''. But looking at her reserved attitude, he seemed to have understood something. Chuckling inside his heart. He said.

    "There''s no need to be reserved in front of me. Instead of ''Thanks'' just call me sweetly, I would prefer ''Hubby or Darling."

    Hearing his joking tone, Alicia felt some dissatisfaction in her heart. She knew she shouldn''t think too much about it, but somewhere inside her heart, these weren''t the words she wanted to hear from him. She wanted him to give her a serious reply. Even if it was an assurance...

    "Um." She just gave a short reply, masking her emotions. Then, with a cold snort, she pouted and said. "Hmph, what husband?! It''s not decided yet!"

    Luis had expected this answer from her and had said those words intentionally to improve her mood. But looking at her cold expression, he felt something was wrong.

    ''This isn''t right.''

    ''Why is she angry?''

    ''Is it...''

    Suddenly, realization dawned upon him as his eyes became serious.

    ''Hah~''

    With a slight movement, he got close to her.

    *Sigh*

    ''Seriously, this girl...''

    Luis held Alicia''s tender hands, which were cold and wet. Maybe due to the rain or because of her ice affinity, but it didn''t matter. Because at the moment those hands which contained the power of an F rank... seemed fragile. As if they could break at any moment if not handled delicately.

    Alicia, who was taken aback by Luis'' actions. Let him hold her hands as she felt the warmth permitted through his palms. This feeling was ratherfortable and soothed her depressed heart.

    With a faint smile on his handsome face and tenderness in his eyes, he called her name softly.

    "Alicia..."

    "What is it?!"

    She asked in a nd tone. But the next moment her turquoise eyes met his gray affectionate eyes and a bubbling emotion emerged inside of her. Under her cold eyes, yet an expectant heart, he said word by word.

    "We, who were brought together by destiny, are going to spend our entire lives together... My thread of fate has already been entangled by yours and this knot is something I want to keep as it is forever... Even if you ever want to escape this destiny of yours... I won''t let you go... May it be selfishness of mine... But it doesn''t matter... As long as we are together... We are bound to find happiness together."

    "So, Alicia, let me be selfish this time. And from now on... Be mine!"

    His bold deration made Alicia''s heart flutter. At a loss for words, her pale white face turned deep crimson as the sudden happiness overwhelmed her heart.

    "Hmph, you are so possessive." Though she said that she didn''t deny him. Because in her heart, she was bubbling with joy.

    When she looked at Luis beside her. Alicia''s cold expression melted, and a beautiful smile blossomed on her fair face.

    Because of the emergence of this warm feeling, her cold heart melted as if the melting of winter snow at the arrival of spring.

    Maybe this was the start of Alicia''s spring as her flower of eternal love blossomed. Her cold and lonely winter was finallying to an end as this beautiful white rose would blossom to a new beginning at the start of her eternal spring.

    *Cough*

    At this moment, an embarrassed cough broke the ambiance between them. Alicia''s beautiful smile stiffened as she nced at Derd coldly.

    "Young master, the battle ising to an end!"

    Luis nodded solemnly and replied, "Very well! Let the support team check for any casualties!"

    "Yes, Sir!!"

    Receiving his orders, Derd immediately set out.

    ***

    On the other side, most of the ruins were already destroyed. Large pits, craters, sword marks and the bloodied ground soaked with the blood of assassins were left as the aftermath of this short one-sided battle.

    "This seems to be thest one." Lumine mumbled as she chopped the limbs of the C rank assassin who was agonizing and wailing in pain, barely keeping his life.

    From her stable breath, it could be understood just how simple this battle for her was. Tapping on her mana bracelet, she sent a message, thenmanded.

    "Bring the captives and follow me!"

    "Yes! Madam!!"

    ...

    Sometimeter, at the location specified by Luis.

    Ronald, Lumine and Jack arrived with their respective teams.

    "Good work everyone!"

    "Yes, sir"

    Looking at everyone, Ronald nodded with appreciation. Then his eyes fell on Lumine as he noticed some unusualness. ''It seems she has also found out.''

    Sighing in his heart, he didn''t say anything and quietly waited for the arrival of Luis and Alicia.

    ***

    When Luis arrived with the support team. Everyone in the raid team was also looking at him. All of them are veterans and in this mission, it was Luis'' first time participating, moreover, as amander. Looking at their gazes full of admiration and respect, the results were quite good.

    Giving a short speech and appreciating the hard work of the team members. Luis let them leave with the support team and rest.

    Now the only people left were Luis, Alicia, Ronald, Lumine, Jack and the six unconscious captives. Five of them were assassins wearing ck battle suits, and one of them was in a priest''s robe. From his attire, his identity can be ascertained. It was the person with the most contribution to this battle. Without him, this raid wouldn''t have been possible. Ren Varnish, the direct disciple of Pope.

    "Mental Protection artifacts are removed from his body, right?"

    "Yes, young master!" Jack replied.

    Luis smirked and said, "In that case, let''s start the performance."

 Chapter 60: Incomplete Revenge!!!

    <h4>Chapter 60: Iplete Revenge!!!</h4>

    *Groan*

    A man in priest''s robes regained his consciousness with a groaning sound. As soon as he opened his eyes to look around, he was slightly surprised. But there was more relief and confusion.

    "Did I... survive?"

    As he sat on the bed, he rubbed his forehead to relieve the slight headache.

    "What happened?... Howe I am here?" He mumbled subconsciously.

    From what he remembers, he went to the base for the monthly inspection, but some unknown forces suddenly attacked them. Moreover, the enemies were extremely powerful. Before they even had the time to counter, they were immediately suppressed.

    "Who the heck were those bastards?!"

    Rubbing his forehead, he gritted his teeth in irritation. Until now, he has no clue about the enemy.

    "Let''s think about thatter. First, I should figure out what happened after I fainted and how did I get here."

    While he was still sorting out his thoughts, a deep voice sounded beside him that caught his attention.

    "So, you are awake... Ren."

    The familiar voice made Ren''s expression ecstatic. He looked at the person who entered the room and immediately went to his knees and shouted fanatically.

    "Your Excellency!!"

    "Do you know who did it?" The voice was in and unhurried.

    "I... I am not sure, Your Highness..."

    As Ren said that, he broke down in a cold sweat. "I am ashamed of my ipetence."

    "..."

    Not receiving a response made Ren nervous.

    "Who am I, Ren?"

    This question startled Ren. Although he was confused, ''Why would his highness ask such a question'' he still answered honestly.

    "Your Highness is Orneus Aiverson, the crown prince of the Aiverson Empire."

    When he said that, his fanaticism towards Orneus couldn''t be hidden.

    "Then tell me Ren, for what purpose did I start this Assassin organization?"

    Orneus'' deep voice sent shivers down Ren''s spine.

    *Gulp*

    Ren gulped and answered. "For them to work as a knife for his highness to purge the darkness of the empire from the shadows."

    Although what he said was high sounding, in a literal sense, it was just doing Orneus'' dirty work.

    *Crack*

    After this, there was no further conversation, as Ren found the space around him cracking. The crack further deepened, and everything shattered like a broken mirror.

    That''s when he heard an unfamiliar sighing voice.

    "Hah~ It seems this is the current limit~"

    ''WHAT?!!'' Ren was in disbelief. Suddenly a thought came into his mind and the conclusion he came to horrified him.

    "No way..."

    "ILLUSION?!!!"

    Before he could think further, he heard the voice say.

    "Jack, knock him down."

    The next moment, Ren felt pain at the back of his neck and his eyes rolled white as he went unconscious. At thest moment before he fainted, there was only one thought in his mind.

    ''I messed up!"

    ***

    Luis was sweating profusely while drinking mana potions to recover his mana.

    ''It seems with my current strength keeping such an illusion for a longer period is still very difficult. Maybe I shouldn''tpletely recreate the environment and focus at one point to save mana.''

    While Luis was thinking about ways to improve his illusion magic. The faces of people beside him were expressing different emotions.

    ''So, it was them!''

    Although Ronald and Lumine had some doubts before. But now getting the confirmation, their hatred towards the Aiverson royal family magnified.

    As for Alicia, Luis had already spected that it might be someone from the royal family, so she wasn''t very surprised. Though she had many questions, she wanted answers for, at least for now, her target was clear.

    "Orneus Aiverson!!! Although I don''t know your purpose but this unfulfilled revenge, I, Alicia Raven, willplete it myself by taking your head."

    Maybe it was due to Luis'' influence. Alicia''s head at this moment was extremely clear. So, though she was angry, she was still calm.

    Hearing Alicia''s oath, Luis also smiled lightly and said while nodding.

    "Well, sooner orter we will settle these ounts with him. But for now, let''s deal with the current situation first."

    As he said that, he also nced in the direction of Ronald and Lumine. Both were aware of what Luis meant. It''s nothing but the aftermath of this raid. Because this time, they affected the interests of both the royal family and the church. So, if this matter is not handled properly the Suarez family will bear the burnt. And it was still a little early to face them.

    "Leave the aftermath to us. You just focus on improving your strength and preparing for the academy." Ronald said with a fatherly smile, looking at Luis and Alicia.

    Lumine also gave her assurance. "Yeah, let us adults handle everything."

    With that said, Luis let Jack take the unconscious captives, including Ren Varnish, back first. Then asked Lumine and Ronald to follow behind.

    "Lily, scan the whole ruin and help me find the way to the Ruined temple."

    {Yes, Master!}

    His actions piqued their curiosity, leaving them silently wondering about what kind of surprise he would give them this time.

    Following the navigation of Lily, they arrived at the supposed Ruined Temple, which was mostly destroyed because of the battle and was now full of debris.

    {This is it, Master!}

    Looking at the state of the Ruined Temple as he tried to ovep it with the image in his memory, Luis couldn''t help but smile wryly.

    ''Fortunately, the tform is not destroyed.''

    "Dad, can you clear the debris out for me?"

    "Hm? Well sure."

    As he said that, Ronald instantly activated his spells.

    "Wind Shield!"

    A spherical translucent shield enveloped them before Ronald chanted his next spell.

    "Mini Hurricane!"

    A fast-moving tornado was formed,pletely clearing out the debris in front of them. After the dust cleared and winds passed by, what appeared in their sight was an ancient circr tform with weird symbols transcribed on it.

    Before they could ask anything, Luis was already ahead of them as he started rearranging the directions of rocks engraved with symbols forming a weird pattern.

    This Summoner''s quest can be triggered by following the route of one of the heroines at the academy. Only afterpleting a chain of quests and obtaining all the symbol codes can the final reward be obtained from this Ruined Temple. But for Luis, all that was unnecessary. It didn''t take long for him to rearrange them as per his memory.

    "Done!"

    With a faint smile, Luis moved back and the next moment, light appeared on the tform. Then it started vibrating, and an ancient-looking staff came out from its centre.

    ''This is it "The Summoner''s Staff!" It looks very mysterious.''

    After he took the staff inside his pocket space. Luis turned back and said with a faint smile.

    "Let''s go home."

 Chapter 61 Hatched!

    61 Hatched!

    As the dawn approached, the red hue of the rising sun on the horizon painted a beautiful picture on the light gray canvas of the starry sky. The south-eastern winds blew past the naked trees and the morning mist-covered leaves rustled together.

    Inside the Suarez family manor, in a luxurious bedroom, the morning sunshine passed through the curtains, falling briskly upon Luis, who was sleeping on a king-sized bed. Soon his brows furrowed, and his eyes opened, waking up from his deep sleep. He stretched his limbs out of the sheets and was greeted by the warm, cheerful voice of Lily.

    {Good morning, Master.}

    "Um, morning Lily."

    While Luis changed out of his nightwear and freshened himself, Lily updated him regarding the progress of their experiments for the new projects he had started.

    ***

    It''s been about one and a half months since the Raid incident. In this period, the Aiverson royal family didn''t make any small moves. Nor did the Suarez family use or me them because it wasn''t the time to tear off their faces with the royal family.

    As for the Church''s side, they couldn''t just damage their reputation if revealed that the direct disciple of the Pope was working with an Assassin organization. So, the Suarez family could onlye forward to give the unfortunate news that the direct disciple of Pope was a ''victim'' who was ''kidnapped'' by the Assassins and had an unfortunate death under therge-scale attack at the time of the raid.

    Although many people didn''t believe it, and it caused a rift between the Church and the Suarez family. But neither Ronald nor Lumine cared about that. They could only give their condolences to the Pope.

    Fortunately, in the end, the Church didn''t try anything and let the matter go, at least on the surface. But Luis knew sooner orter they were going to have a face-off.

    ***

    "So, it is��" While rubbing his chin, Luis mumbled with a frown.

    "It''s still not working."

    {Yes, but as long as we can find the right material to fine-tune those elements, we can get to the next step.} Lily, the cute little assistant who was wearing a researcher coat, exined.

    Then, with a sigh, she continued. {I''ve tried it with all the avable materials, but they all resulted in failure.}

    "Hard work on you Lily. Keep trying with differentbinations and ratios."

    Hearing this, the disappointed Lily also regained her spirits.

    {Yes, Master!}

    Then there was a sudden knock on the work.

    *Knock* *Knock*

    "Who is it?"

    "Luis! It''s me!"

    "Alicia?" Feeling the impatience covered with excitement in her voice, Luis raised his brow in confusion.

    "What happened so early...!"

    He asked while opening the door, but before he could continue Alicia''s jade-white hands pulled his arms abruptly.

    "!?"

    "At least exin what''s going on?!"

    Alicia, who was pulling his arms, eximed in excitement.

    "The Egg!"

    "It''s hatching!!!"

    Hearing this, Luis'' brows outstretched, and a wide smile appeared on his face.

    "Finally! That little guy is willing toe out!"

    While speaking, his legs also hastened. The same was the case for Alicia. Since Luis brought that egg from Almast and gave it to her. She is the one taking care of it. Now that it''s about to be hatched, she can''t wait to express her joy.

    As they entered Alicia''s room. Luis saw the obsidian egg full of cracks ced on the sofa, surrounded by cushions.

    Time passed by minute after minute and the cracks on the egg''s surface kept getting bigger and bigger. Alicia held Luis'' hands tightly, watching with anticipation and nervousness on her face.

    *Crack*

    Then, a crack was heard and a small white paw with ck soft fur punched through the top of the eggshell.

    For a moment, both Alicia and Luis'' breathing stagnated.

    What appeared in their sight was a ck fluffy tail with white fur on its edges. Then, as the egg hatched, a cute fox-like creature came out of the broken shell.

    *Kyu~*

    It had ck and white fur on his body. The fluffy tail alone was the size of the little guy. The insides of his ears were white and there was a beautiful silver crescent mark on his forehead.

    "So, this is a Moon Fox!" Luis mumbled with interest.

    "Ahh! It''s so cute~"

    Reacting to Alicia''s voice, the Moon Fox also looked over in her direction, then let out a cute sound as if calling for her.

    *Kyu~*

    "Woah~"

    Out of sudden happiness, she almost pounced on it, but thankfully the Moon Fox wasn''t scared by her and let her snuggle happily as she rubbed her cheeks.

    "Ah ha ha~ It''s so soft~"

    Looking at the merry scene in front of him, Luis also felt warm in his heart. Maybe it was the right choice to bring the egg back home. But he also had several questions in his mind. Such as.

    Why is its tail and fur so fluffy just after being hatched?

    Or why can a fox be hatched from an egg?!!

    Sighing, he attributed all this to themon sense of this world. So, he couldn''t question these logics. But. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What''s going on, Lily? Even if it''s a mild creature and has high intelligence, it shouldn''t be so close to humans without a contract, right?"

    {There are several cases in which, while breeding monsters and beasts with a certain level of intelligence and are mild in nature, they treat their breeders as their parents and have a high affection for them after their birth.}

    {The same might be the case for this Moon Fox. She might have been observing Sis Alicia''s care for her from inside the egg. That''s why she treats Sis Alicia as her mother.}

    Nodding his head in understating, Luis mumbled. "So, it''s a female."

    {Yes.}

    Watching a cute baby Moon Fox and a beautiful fairy-like girl cuddling together. Luis had a premonition that his days with them would be even more interesting.

    "Alicia, I''ll go bring something for her to eat."

    "Hurry up! My baby is hungry~" Alicia said coquettishly.

    "Kyu~"

    And so did the Moon Fox, as if copying her actions.

 Chapter 62 A Myth?!

    62 A Myth?!

    Luis was dumbfounded by this different version of Alicia.

    ''Hmm, maybe we can try this kind of y in the future. I should make a note of it.'' With a faint grin on his face, Luis left the room.

    "Lily, what should I feed her?"

    {Master, if it''s just feeding, even the normal milk will do for the newborn. But if it''s for her future development and growth, I suggest Mana nutrient solution in her infancy.}

    "So be it."

    With that said, Luis ordered a maid to bring it. Even if there were none, they could let the family alchemist make some.

    While waiting for the maid, Luis asked curiously.

    "Lily, are there any breeding materials about a Moon Fox?"

    {No Master, there are no records of the Moon Fox being tamed.}

    ''As expected!''

    Luis wasn''t surprised by her answer. Because Moon Foxes are very rare creatures, at least on Alnaur. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Lily, tell me about the Moon Fox."

    {Sure, Master.}

    Lily opened a hologram of many myths and records in Luis'' mana bracelet. Then started exining.

    {The Moon Foxes are said to be the variants of the Tailed Foxes. They are one of the few species that have a high affinity for the Lunar Element. They prefer dark ces and like to bask in the moonlight. Because of their nature, they are rarely seen in Alnaur.}

    Luis already knew about this information. So, he wasn''t surprised, but something still caught his attention.

    "Tailed Foxes?"

    Seeing that Luis was interested in Tailed Foxes, Lily started to exin.

    {Tailed Foxes, also known as Sun Foxes. They are called the descendants of the Legendary Sacred Beast Nine-Tailed Fox. They use Sr Element and prefer to bask under sunlight. There is also a myth that says as the number of tails of the Tailed Fox grows, their power also increases and once it reaches to nine tails, they can get the power of the Sacred Nine-Tailed Fox.}

    ''Sacred Beast? Nine-Tailed Fox?''

    Hearing this myth, Luis was also a little interested. However, he didn''t know the exact power of the Sacred Beast because it was never revealed in the game. But he was certain that they were far more powerful than an SSS Rank.

    "Lily, is there any myth rted to Moon Fox?"

    {No, there is too little information about the Moon Foxes. Moreover, they don''t grow tails like Sun Foxes. So, the tail theory was discarded off.}

    ''Sure enough.''

    Luis had asked this question with little expectation, so he wasn''t disappointed. Also, it didn''t matter to him whether the Moon Fox was rted to some sacred beast or not. He just wanted to have a cute pet in the family with somebat strength to protect itself. But if Alicia wants to train it, he will surely support her. So, he left the choicepletely to them.

    "Lily, from the information you have found about the Moon Fox. Prepare a breeding and training n and send it to Alicia. Also, let Jack send a Spirit Contract to Alicia."

    {Is Sis Alicia going to sign a Spirit Contract with the Moon Fox?}

    "It seems so. Do you like the Moon Fox too?" Luis asked with a faint smile.

    Lily''s hologram looked at him with a gleaming smile as her eyes twinkled. Then with a sweet giggle she said.

    {Hehehe~ She''s really cute~}

    ***

    It didn''t take long for the maids to bring the Mana Nutrient Solution. It seems there was still some in stock.

    Back in Alicia''s room. Under Alicia''s care, the Moon Fox drank the Mana Nutrient Solution with relish.

    *Kyu~*

    "Did you think of a name for her?" Luis asked curiously as he watched Alicia teasing the Moon Fox.

    "Yeah!" Alicia replied with her eyes shining, then she grabbed the Moon Fox with both her hands and raised her high. "I''ve decided, from now on, her name is Ivy."

    "Ivy, huh?" Luis murmured thoughtfully. Then suggested, "I think Luna would be more meaningful."

    Hearing this, Alicia objected immediately. "No! Who said the name should always be meaningful?"

    For Alicia''s protest, Luis was speechless but had no way to quibble. In the end, he could only give in. ''Well, as long as she is happy.'' He thought with a sighing smile.

    At this moment, another maid came and informed them.

    "Young Master, Master and Madam are waiting for you and Lady Alicia."

    "Hmm," Luis nodded in response. Then, turning to Alicia, he said. "Let''s go, Alicia. Let''s introduce Ivy to Mom and Dad, too."

    "Yes!" Hearing Luis'' words, Alicia also became excited as she picked up Ivy and put her on her shoulders. Ivy also cooperatively wrapped her fluffy tail around her neck and sat morefortably.

    Luis enviously nced at Alicia when he saw the fluffy tail wrapped around her neck like a furry scarf.

    ''I want to try that too.''

    ***

    At the breakfast table.

    Lumine was reading some interesting articles while Ronald was on a call with someone.

    "Good, then see you in the evening."

    *Beep*

    Seeing Ronald hanging up the call, Lumine swiped away the holograms with a wave of her hand and asked curiously, "David?"

    "Yeah," Ronald replied with a nod.

    Lumine mumbled thoughtfully, "This time his expedition went longer than expected."

    "Well, there were just some discoveries. So, it took a little longer."

    "Is that so?"

    Lumine was somewhat curious but knew that Ronald also didn''t know the details, so she decided to ask Davidter.

    "Speaking of which�� Did you tell him?"

    "�� Yeah."

    As he said that, his expression also became subtle.

    Lumine''s brows furrowed as she asked, "What did he say?"

    Shaking his head, Ronald said with a frown, "He is barely holding himself from going to war with the Royal family."

    "��"

    ''So, are we!''

    Although there was silence in the hall, both of them had the same thoughts in their minds.

    *Kyu~*

    The silence in the hall was broken by the arrival of a cute ck and white fox-like fluffy creature.

    "Hey~ Ivy~ Don''t run around like that~"

    Followed by the melodic and yful voice of Alicia.

 Chapter 63 Admission Letter!

    63 Admission Letter!

    Holding a white scroll above the Moon Fox, Alicia dropped a drop of her blood on it. Then, the next moment, a bluish magical pattern appeared on the Moon Fox, which disappeared soon after. Alicia felt a spiritual link between her and Ivy''s consciousness. With it, her understanding and feelings for Ivy were increasing. Hence, the Spirit Contract between them was established.

    ***

    At the breakfast table. Everyone was in a jovial mood because Alicia had established her Spirit Contract with Ivy.

    Lumine''s eyes were constantly looking at Ivy, who was sleeping on Alicia''sp. That majestic fluffy tail was making her hands itch to ruffle on it. "Luis, your admission letter is here."

    Hearing Ronald''s words, Luis, who was almost done eating his breakfast, stopped. "Already?"

    Ronald''s left brow twitched. "What already? There''s only one week left before the entrance exam."

    "Oh, right?" Luis replied without much thought, and then concentrated on finishing his breakfast.

    Because of his uncaring attitude, Ronald felt helpless. ''Is it confidence?'' But he also knew with Luis'' current strength there should be nothing to worry about.

    Contrary to Ronald''s judgment. Luis was very much looking forward to the start of the academy. Because with that, the game story will begin, bringing all kinds of events, quests, dangers, adventures, dramas and thrills. Turning his head to Alicia, Ronald said, "Alicia, your admission letter is with your father. He will bring itter."

    "Um-hm." Alicia nodded. Then nced at Luis, thoughtfully. ''With our current strength, the top of the rankings shouldn''t be a problem. But I don''t know how much strength he is going to hide.''

    Alicia knew that Luis was going to hide his Space affinity. So, he shouldn''t use Spatial Jump and his other space-rted abilities. Wondering this, a thought appeared in her mind. ''In that case, defeating him shouldn''t be a problem, right?''

    Thinking of this, Alicia became a little excited and a powerful fighting intent emerged inside her. ''Hehe~ It''s going to be fun." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Luis saw Alicia smirking at him and was a little confused. ''What''s up with her?''

    ***

    After breakfast, Ronald left for the guild. Lumine followed Alicia to y with Ivy. So Luis, who was left alone, decided to go to the training grounds.

    13:35

    At the training grounds, Luis was constantly experimenting with his Lightning Spells.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    *Boom*

    "Lightning Spear!"

    *Kaboom* *Zzzt*

    "Thunder Snake!"

    *Sssh*

    ��

    In these months of training, Luis'' proficiency with the Lightning element was increasing steadily. Though he learned quite a few Lightning Element spells, only some of them were from the Ancient Magic Book. Because most of the spells in it are very powerful and they aren''t something that he can cast with his current strength. ��

    Hours went by and the training ground was left charred everywhere and covered with craters and pits all over.

    *Gulp*

    Drinking a bottle of Mana Potion. Luis recovered his exhausted mana. "Lily, show me my current status."

    {Okay, Master~}

    Followed by Lily''s voice, a hologram of his status panel appeared above his mana bracelet.

    ***

    [Name] : Luis Suarez

    [Race] : Human

    [Age] : 16

    [Rank] : Novice rank ������ (E)

    [Affinity] : Lightning (Hidden : Space)

    [Talent Awakened] : Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent] : Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique] : None

    [Bloodline] : Unawakened

    [Titles] : Challenger

    [Skills] : Perception, Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D)

    [Techniques] : Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Elementary ������)

    [Mana Core] : Rank D+

    Looking at his status, Luis mumbled with a sigh. "Just a step away from the Order Rank�� Although it''s just a step�� I don''t know how long will it take to break through."

    Then, while rubbing his chin, he thought. ''Although, with my current strength, the starting few events shouldn''t be a problem. But that''s if�� everything goes ording to the game routes. I don''t know�� what kind of changes my existence will bring.''

    *Sigh*

    "There''s no point thinking about this. I just have to prepare as much as I can."

    {Master, you are already very strong. As per the data of the current year''s candidates, you are the strongest.} Seeing Lily cheering him on, Luis smiled faintly. He knew Lily had misunderstood him, but he didn''t bother to clear up the misunderstanding.

    Instead, the data she mentioned interested him. "Oh? What information did you find?" Luis asked curiously.

    {The majority of the students are the ones who have been recently awakened. So, they are still in Rookie Rank (G). As for the ones who are affiliated with the major guilds or are trained for a while. Those selected elites are in Beginner Rank (F).}

    "Just tell me the numerical data."

    {Around 35 candidates are in Beginner Rank (F). The rest are all in Rookie Rank (G) or unawakened.}

    "Tell me the Star division of F-ranks?"

    {15 candidates have just entered the Beginner Rank (F). 12 of them are affiliated with major guilds and are in two or three stars. And the rest of the 8 are the geniuses of this generation. Six of which are in four and five stars.}

    Hearing Lily''s estimate, Luis was silent for a while. For the twenty-seven F-Ranks. He had no opinion. But the eight geniuses of this generation that Lily mentioned. Luis was already sure about whom she was talking about. So, he asked with a faint smile.

    "Oh, are we included in those eight?"

    {Of course! Master is about to break through to Order rank (D) and Sis Alicia is [Novice rank �� �� �� (E)]. You two are the strongest candidates this year, surpassing those geniuses by far.} Lily answered with a proud expression. Luis nodded, then thought of something and spoke.

    "Lily, find all the information about those six and all the F-Ranks. Details about their personal life, including habits, connections, social life, rtionships, likes, dislikes, family members, close friends, and activities. I want a record of everything."

    {You can count on me, Master!} Lily eximed while giving a yful military salute.

    "Okay, don''t mess around and work on it." Luis said with a serious expression. To which Lily just shrugged with pouting cheeks.

    {Yes~ Yes~}

    Seeing her acting cute, Luis shook his head with a slight smile.

 Chapter 64 Davids Thanks!

    64 David''s Thanks!

    After a brief break, Luis once again started his practice in full swing.

    "Discharge!"

    *Sizzle! *

    Discharge is a Lightning Elemental Spell in which the caster will release thunder currents from all over his body, working as a protective cover for a few seconds. It even has a paralyzing effect on the enemy. But a single release consumes a lot of Mana. Although he has a few applications in mind, it''s not cost-effective to use them at the expense of so much, Mana.

    "If only I could keep those thunder currents from disappearing," Luis mumbled with a deep sigh.

    *Sigh*

    "Hm?!"

    "Wait!" Suddenly, a thought crossed his mind and Luis'' entire being became excited. A grin appeared on his handsome face as he uttered while rubbing his chin. "Maybe, I really can."

    ''Just like mana coating, where I need to have excellent control over mana to increase the destructiveness of my attacks. If I can control the electrical discharge of the discharge spell, my attack power will reach an entirely new level.''

    Now that he had an idea, Luis became even more enthusiastic.

    "Haha, if I can perfect this move before the entrance exam. I can give Alicia a big surprise."

    Just imagining the kind of expression she would make, made Luis very motivated to work hard.

    "Discharge!"

    *Sizzle! *

    "Discharge!"

    *Sizzle! *

    ***

    In the evening, everyone in The Suarez Manor was waiting for the arrival of Alicia''s dad. While Alicia was brushing Ivy''s fur and chatting with Lumine. Luis, on the other hand, was having an important conversation with his dad.

    "Dad."

    "Hm?"

    "A week ago, I sent a list to Jack. Did you see it?"

    "Those dungeons?"

    "Yeah."

    "Well, the acquisition of those dungeons shouldn''t be a problem, and I''ve already let people work on it."

    "!!!"

    "Really?! That''s good. Thanks, Dad!"

    When he heard that his dad had already started working on it. Luis became a little excited. At first, he thought he might have to convince him a little. After all, the request that he made was way too expensive, even for his family.

    Even if those dungeons will bring an unsurmountable number of benefits in the future. There was no basis to talk about them now. So, he had been thinking of various reasons and exnations to convince him. But who knew? His dad didn''t even bother to question him and directly started working on it.

    ''Does he have so much trust in me?'' Thinking of this, Luis became a little emotional.

    Completely oblivious to Luis'' inner thoughts. Ronald took out a list in front of him. "Most of them aren''t a problem. But these few will be a little troublesome."

    When Luis heard this, a frown appeared on his face. With their status, acquiring those dungeons shouldn''t be a problem, right? The importance and value of those dungeons are not yet known. So, what''s the problem? Although Luis was a little doubtful, when he read the list, he understood the reason. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Evansville Family! and Wayne Family!"

    "Hah... It''s troublesome."

    Ronald nodded his head helplessly and uttered, "They will not hand over those dungeons easily."

    After thinking about it for some time, Luis said. "Dad, leave those dungeons aside. Just acquire the rest of the dungeons by the end of my first semester."

    "That shouldn''t be a problem. But what about the ones from the Evansville Family and Wayne Family?"

    Although Ronald didn''t understand why Luis wanted to acquire so many dungeons, specifically these. He was sure that what Luis wanted to do wasn''t something simple and there must be some big purpose behind it.

    After all, his son had given him a lot of surprises, and he was also curious to know what kind of surprise it would be this time. So, even if it might create some problems, Ronald was ready to trouble the Evansville and Wayne family for Luis.

    Luis didn''t know about Ronald''s inner thoughts. But in his mind, he already had a n for the Evansville family and the Wayne family.

    "I''ll do something about them," he said confidently.

    Hearing Luis'' answer, Ronald''s eyes glinted. But before he could say anything, a loud exmation interrupted him.

    "DAD~!!"

    Alicia stood up from the couch and walked towards the entrance.

    That familiar dark auburn hair and that light moustache and beard. It was none other than David Raven, Alicia''s father, who was standing at the entrance.

    David was stunned when he saw Alicia cheerfully walk up to him and greet him with a sweet and warm smile that he had missed all these years and uttered the sentence that he had long wanted to hear.

    "Wee back, Dad."

    He couldn''t help but tear up at this moment. The smile on Alicia''s face wasn''t forced or burdened by anything. He felt as if Alicia from before her mother''s death was back in front of him.

    "I''m�� back��"

    When David said these two words. He almost choked. Tears couldn''t stop falling down his eyes and the uncontroble joy overwhelmed him.

    When Alicia saw her father''s tears, she understood how much pain he had been in. She wasn''t the only one who lost someone. Her father also lost his wife. But she, whose mind was filled with revenge, neglected her father''s happiness.

    For the sake of the lost one, she forgot to care for the living.

    At this moment, her heart was filled with endless sadness and guilt.

    "I''m sorry, Dad."

    Saying that she didn''t care about anything and hugged him while crying. David gently patted her back as the memories shed in his mind when he used tofort little Alicia whenever she cried.

    When she changed after Maria''s death. He thought he could never get to see her again like this.

    But now his little princess is back, showing her smile and emotions. Not pressured by the burden called revenge.

    And all of this was possible because of a certain someone.

    Thinking of this, David looked in a certain direction and broke away from the hug. After walking in front of the young man to whom he had entrusted his daughter''s future. He said the next sentence with the most sincere and grateful smile.

    "Thank you, Luis. Thank you for keeping your promise."

    From the next chapter the Academy arc will start. Many new characters and plots will be introduced. On the 1st of november there will be a mass release and after that the story will follow the schedule of 2 chapters a day.

 Chapter 65 The Oracle!

    65 The Oracle!

    The Oracle Academy, also known as the Five Heroes Academy.

    It was founded by the five great heroes of different races after the Great War, 45 years ago. This academy was founded because of the prophecy made by the Great Prophet after the Great War that in the future, the chosen one will appear, who will lead a group of powerfulpanions and be the light that will save the doomed future of this world.

    The prophecy said that in the near future, many catastrophes and disasters will befall Alnaur that will lead humanity to the brink of extinction. And only the one chosen by the world can save the future. That''s why the five great heroes founded this academy in the hopes of training the future generation to ensure the survival of this world.

    After that, time went on, and a peaceful era started. Neither the prophesied catastrophes came, nor did the chosen one. But the Oracle Academy stood tall as the number one Academy in Alnaur, training countless powerhouses and bing the important pir that supported this world''s strength.

    Now it has be the symbol of peace, prosperity and strength between the five races.

    ***

    The days went by, and in the blink of an eye, only two days were left before the start of the entrance examination.

    Using the Transport Circle, Luis and Alicia, along with Lumine, arrived at Tuxel City, the border city of the Aiverson Empire. It has the secondrgest port in the entire Aiverson Empire and is a hub for many shipyards and fishing industries.

    50 km north of Tuxel is the border of the Elven Kingdom, Esperia. And 20 Nautical Miles away from the waters of Tuxel City is the Archipgo where the Oracle Academy exists. Which is also today''s destination for the trio.

    Coming out of the transport junction. Lumine stretched out her arms, then took a deep breath and smiled in satisfaction.

    "Ahh~ The sea breeze and this humid, salty air mixed with a light fishy smell. It''s so refreshing~"

    Turning to look at Luis and Alicia behind her, she asked. "Do you guys want to try some seafood?"

    "I''m up for it!" Alicia replied instantly and then, scratching Ivy''s fur, she asked. "What about you Ivy?"

    *Kyu~*

    Ivy let out a cute sound while snuggling closer to Alicia''s cheek.

    "She said yes." Alicia nodded understandingly.

    Luis was amused by Alicia''s and Ivy''s interaction.

    ''Does Ivy even know what a seafood is?'' But he was not stupid enough to dampen the mood by angering Alicia and asking such questions.

    Lumine smiled satisfyingly, looking at her future daughter-inw. Then her eyes shifted to Luis.

    "What about you, Luis?"

    "I''m fine with anything."

    To be honest, he was also very much interested in this world''s seafood culture. From the memory of the previous Luis, he knew that there were some simr seafood cuisines from his previous world. But he hadn''t had a chance to taste them yet, so he wasn''t quite sure if they were simr. Or just have the same names.

    *p*

    Getting everyone''s affirmation. Lumine said while pping her hands.

    "Then, it''s settled. We will first have our lunch and then we will take our boat for the Archipgo."

    ---

    While taking a ride to the best seafood restaurant rmended by Lily. They came across a Fish Market. Thinking that Luis and Alicia might be a little interested, Lumine asked. "Do you guys want to check out the Fish Market first?"

    Even if she had an appetite for some seafood, not long before she had her breakfast. So, she suggested going to the Fish Market.

    Alicia looked over in the direction of the Fish Market and nodded with an ''Um''.

    Seeing her nod, Luis also gave his acquiescence. "Well�� there''s still time before lunch, so it''s not a bad idea to tour around a little."

    Lumine nodded, agreeing with his words. "In that case, let''s stop here for a while."

    ---

    As soon as the trio entered the Fish Market, their eyes were attracted by therge variety of sea creatures present there. When Luis'' eyes moved around from shop to shop, he saw many interesting fish and sea creatures. Such as the three-eyed fishes, some with big horns, a few with tusks like elephants and stripped bodies like tigers, and many more. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    What attracted his attention the most was that all the fish were quite huge. He also saw octopuses, squids, lobsters, crabs, and shrimps, which seemed no different from his previous world. As for their taste, he wasn''t sure.

    However, he couldn''t help but scrunch his face when he saw a weird sea creature that made him lose his appetite from its mere sight.

    But what made him more speechless was that the customers waited in line to get it, and they seemed quite excited about buying those things. Their eyes were shining, and from their looks, they couldn''t wait to eat it.

    Seeing their reactions, although he was a little curious about the taste. But his curiosity wasn''t enough for him to let go of his disgust.

    "Is that a Sea monster?" Alicia asked with a frown on her face.

    It did not surprise Lumine when she saw them react like this. Instead, she had expected it. When she saw that creature for the first time, her reaction was also the same.

    "It''s an Angler Blob," Luis said with an unnatural expression on his face. "It''s the mostmon G Grade Sea Monster near Tuxel City."

    Alicia nodded strangely when she heard the monster''s name. It seems that she had also heard of it. But Luis''tter sentence made her think of something as she asked with interest, "Is there a sea dungeon nearby?"

    Before Luis could answer, Lumine said with a thoughtful expression. "There are some. But only a few low-rank dungeons. So, there''s no danger."

    Then, while shrugging her shoulders, she said.

    "Anyway, you will get to experience the sea dungeons during your academy."

    "So, forget about them for now, okay?"

    Hearing this, Alicia nodded in understanding. But neither of them noticed the change in Luis'' expression at the mention of Sea Dungeon, which returned to normal the next moment.

 Chapter 66 Sera Dennis!

    66 Sera Dennis!

    After moving around for a while, when it was almost time for lunch, they left for the restaurant.

    ---

    Lily''s rmendation made them very satisfied, as the lunch was very much to their liking.

    Luis also found out that the taste of the dishes was very different from any of the seafood that he had eaten in his previous life.

    ''It seems to be because of the influx of mana.'' n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    He came to this conclusion afterparing the food from his memory. But he couldn''t be sure, and there was no way to ascertain it. So, he could only let it be.

    Anyway, now that they had their lunch. It was time to set off for the Oracle Academy.

    ---

    Coming over to the port of Tuxel City. They soon arrived at their private dock, where a luxurious yacht was waiting for them.

    "Good afternoon! Madam!" When Lumine came over, the captain and the crew greeted her loudly.

    Then, seeing Luis and Alicia, they were about to continue, but Lumine raised her hand to stop them and asked.

    "Are we ready to set off?"

    The captain nodded hurriedly and said, "Yes Madam, we can set off anytime."

    "Hmm," Lumine said expressionlessly. "Then let''s start now."

    "Yes, Madam!"

    With that, within a few minutes, they started their sail towards the Oracle Archipgo.

    It didn''t take long and an hourter. They could see the ck shadow of the archipgo.

    The Oracle Archipgo consists of five inds. North, South, East, and West Inds and the Main Ind. The Oracle Academy is on the Main Ind, as it is also the centermost and the biggest ind, spread across an area of 100 square km.

    Thinking about the various plots and events that are going to take ce at the Oracle Academy. Luis'' expression couldn''t help but be solemn. Because he knew that this ce would be the start of everything.

    He had already prepared as much as he could and now; the story had already begun.

    ***

    While Luis and the others were about to arrive at the Oracle Academy.

    In Tryston city, inside a well-furnished vi, a beautiful green-haired girl was sitting on a sofa while drinking her favourite our Tea as her emerald-coloured eyes were moving left to right reading a book rted to witchcraft.

    15:28

    In Tryston city, inside a well-furnished vi, a beautiful green-haired girl was sitting on a sofa while drinking her favourite our Tea as her emerald-coloured eyes were moving left to right reading a book rted to witchcraft.

    At that moment, an old butler came in front of her and spoke. "Miss, the preparations are over. Also, Lord Miller asks for your presence before you leave for the academy."

    "��"

    She gave a small nod with a ''hmm'', then closing her book, she said expressionlessly. "Tell my father that I''ll see himter."

    "As you say, Miss."

    When the butler left, she put down the book on the table and sipped her tea silently while looking at the garden.

    Although she had a deadpan expression on her face, inwardly she was a little excited thinking about her academic life.

    ''I wonder what kind of interesting things I''ll get to see in the academy. I just hope it won''t be boring.''

    Thinking of this, she took another sip of her tea.

    When suddenly! Her eye turned white, and then her body fell on the sofa limply and trembled as if being electrocuted by shock. She went unconscious.

    The cup of tea in her hands fell to the ground, shattering into pieces.

    *Shatter*

    The loud noise attracted the attention of the maids working nearby, but when they saw the girl''s condition, their eyes widened in horror.

    "MISS!!!"

    "Someone! Call the doctor!"

    "Miss! Wake up Miss!"

    "Something happened to Miss! Hurry! Tell Lord Miller!"

    The entire vi was in a state of emergency. All the servants had worried expressions on their faces.

    ---

    A few hourster, the girl''s eyes trembled. Just when the butler and the maids thought that she was about to wake up.

    Tears starteding out of her eyes and the next moment she opened her eyes wide and shouted in a grieving voice.

    "NO!!! ALEX!!!"

    "Hah... Hah... Hah."

    She breathed heavily as her chest undiluted up and down. She was still in a state of confusion, as her head was aching. But when she saw the familiar surroundings, her mind started to get clear, and the headache also subsided a little.

    ''Am I alive?'' She rubbed her head in confusion.

    But then, her thoughts were interrupted when she heard a familiar voice that she never thought she could hear again in her life.

    "Sera, are you okay?"

    That familiar in and emotionless voice. She knows how much care and warmth it actually contains behind them.

    "D-Dad," Sera murmured with her voice wavering. With a plea that it was not a dream and expectations in her heart, she looked at the source of the voice that called her.

    That familiar face, which she used to think was annoying. Those expressionless and cold eyes, which in reality contained immense love and care for her inside them.

    Seeing the living person standing in front of her, tears started rolling down her eyes.

    That person was none other than her father, Miller Dennis.

    Various emotions surged inside her heart that she couldn''t control.

    Miller was a little confused by Sera''s actions. He turned around to ask the doctor what was going on with her when suddenly he was bbergasted as she hugged him from behind.

    "D-Don''t go, Dad. Don''t leave me behind."

    For Sera''s iprehensible actions, Miller didn''t know what to do. But seeing her trembling body, he knew one thing for sure. That, at this moment, his daughter needed him.

    His expression was still cold, but there was a little more gentleness in his voice.

    "I''m not going anywhere."

    Hearing the awkwardness in his tone, Sera smiled slightly as her mind started to get clear. Seeing the familiar people around her, Sera knew that she was back.

    ''Thank you, Lorna... That treasure... It worked.''

    There was a glint in her eyes as a firm expression appeared on her face.

    ''This time I''ll change everything.''

    Miller didn''t know about Sera''s thoughts. After letting the doctor check on her and confirming that she was fine. He ordered everyone to leave.

    The relieved servants left the pair of father and daughter behind and got busy with their work.

    But everyone had the same question in their minds.

    ''Who is Alex?''

 Chapter 67 Diana Tres!

    67 Diana Tres!

    After getting permission to enter the barrier and arriving at the Main Ind. Luis and the others took a hover car to move around Academy City.

    In the beginning, Academy City was built around the Oracle Academy to provide students with better facilities. But now, not only for students and faculty but even for tourists, it has many interesting ces to visit and y around.

    Although Luis had learned many things about the Academy City from the game. But seeing it in real life, he was once again fascinated.

    "It''s been so long since I''ve been here," Lumine said.

    Looking at the Academy City around her, which had changed a lotpared to her memory, a soft smile formed on her face.

    "How about we go to the hotel first and then tour around?" Lumine asked.

    To which they agreed simultaneously. Alicia wanted to freshen herself. While Luis had his own ideas and wanted to make some preparations.

    After a 15-minute ride in the hover car, they arrived at the hotel where Lumine had booked their rooms and checked in.

    ***

    Inside the hotel room.

    Luis turned on his Mana Bracelet and called out. "Lily."

    A momentter, Lily''s childish and cheerful voice sounded. {Yes, Master.}

    "Connect to the publicwork here."

    {Just a second�� and�� Done!}

    "Now, try to see if you can break through the security wall and get the footage of all the security cameras inside the Academy City."

    {Okay~}

    Minutes passed by as Lily epassed allmands and security, as she hacked into all the security cameras one by one.

    {Master, a few of them have a spell cast on them.}

    "Let me check it." Saying that, Luis read the spells and started decoding them. With his Sorceror Talent, it wasn''t a problem for him.

    So, within 5 minutes. They managed to hack into all the security cameras inside Academy City.

    "Okay, the first step is over," Luis mumbled with a sigh. Thenmanded. "Lily, from now on you will be responsible for monitoring all the people that I''ve marked in that document. Also, if you find any suspicious people or any suspicious activity going on, then remind me."

    Lily''s hologram appeared in front of him, and she spoke. {You can count on me, Master!}

    ''She seems very excited.'' Luis thought inwardly as he smiled faintly. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Now that the security cameras are in his control. Luis can be a little assured that things will be under control for the time being. But he knew that it wasn''t enough. On such a big ind, there are only 327 cameras, and they are far from enough to monitor the entire ind. So that is why, for surveince and intelligence, he had his ns that he would implement slowly.

    After closing his eyes, he thought about his ns once again. Then, a few minutester, he opened his eyes and asked, "Lily, can you see any Core Targets in the city?"

    Luis has divided the monitoring targets into three: Core, Suspicious and Interested. Core targets are the subject of monitoring 24/7. (Such as the protagonist, female leads, viins, and other important characters.)

    Suspicious Targets as the name suggests. Will be subject to monitoring in case of performing suspicious activities. As for the Interested Targets, it''s when Luis specifies Lily to monitor someone.

    {Master, among the Core Targets. Only Diana Tres is here.}

    When he heard this name, a glint appeared in Luis'' gray eyes. ''So, she is already here, huh?''

    ''Diana Tres, the sixth female lead of the first protagonist. A Beast-Kin from the Sekmet branch, but instead of the lion''s head, she has ears and tails that resemble a tiger. She is a half-Tigress-half-human. Was ostracized from her n for being different.'' Closing his eyes, he was thinking of all the information regarding her character and her plot.

    He was brought out of his thoughts when Lily suddenly asked, {Should I open the footage?}

    "��" After thinking for a second, he said. "�� open it."

    Although Luis wasn''t interested in her. He was quite curious about how she looked in real life. When Lily opened the hologram, Luis was dumbfounded, because what was presented in front of him was a picture of a tanned half-Tigress-half-human girl, full of powerful muscles in her body, walking with a fierce expression on her face, just from observation alone he knew that she was emitting powerful killing intent.

    "What''s going on? Why is she so angry? Is she going to kill someone?"

    Luis'' mind couldn''t process for a moment, because he didn''t remember any plot like this. Moreover, ording to her personality, although she was a battle maniac, she wouldn''t hurt an innocent person.

    ''Is her personality different from what I know?''

    ''If that''s the case, I''ll need to change my ns.''

    While Luis was brainstorming several scenarios. Lily''s next words made him speechless.

    {She went to the most famous Parfait shop in this city and stood in line for 2 hours. But when it was her turn, it sold out.}

    "��"

    "�� Poor girl."

    In such a situation, even he will be pissed off. "She didn''t kill someone, right?"

    {No, but she is looking for someone to fight.}

    "��" After a pause, he said. "Just keep an eye on her."

    Before, he was thinking about contacting her and making her his subordinate. But seeing her current mood, he decided to give up for now.

    ***

    In the evening, Luis and Alicia, together with Lumine acting as a guide, toured around the city. Lumine took them to all her favorite ces and shared her memories. Alicia was also very happy to hear about her mother and her life in the academy.

    Standing in front of an Oak Tree. Lumine''s eyes were a little moist, reminiscing about the past. Luis and Alicia didn''t say anything and quietly waited for her to speak. After a moment, Lumine took a deep breath and, with a slight smile on her face, she started speaking softly.

    "This was Maria''s favorite spot. Whenever she had free time, she used toe here and sit leaning on this tree. One day I asked her, [Why do you like toe here, Maria?] She said, [This tree gives me the motivation to work harder and be stronger so that one day I could go back.]"

    After a pause, Lumine mumbled with a sigh. "I asked her many times, but she never told me where she wanted to go."

    Alicia''s eyes were fixed on the Oak Tree as she was immersed in the memories of her past. Her memories with her mother. With some tears in her eyes, she mumbled. "Just how many secrets did you keep from me, Mom?"

    *Sigh*

    Luis sighed.

    He, of course, knew the answers she wanted, but it wasn''t the right time to tell her.

    ''Forgive me, Alicia.''

 Chapter 68 Lazy Luis~

    68 Lazy Luis~

    A day before the start of the entrance examination.

    Most of the candidates taking the entrance exam have already arrived. The streets of the Academy City were full of people.

    "It feels more like a festival rather than an exam."

    Luis sighed, looking out of the window from his room.

    Today he didn''t go anywhere and justzed around in his hotel room. As for Alicia and Lumine, they went shopping.

    "Lily, how many candidates are taking part in this exam?" Luis asked curiously.

    [100,214 Candidates, Master.] n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Hearing this, Luis wasn''t surprised. He knew that more than 98% would be eliminated in the first and second rounds. So he didn''t care much.

    "Hah, I am so bored," Luis muttered while slumping on his bed.

    {Master, why don''t you revise for the written test?}

    "Don''t you remember how many times I''ve done that already?" Luis said while yawning.

    {Well that''s true.}

    Lily tapped her cheeks with her right index finger and pondered.

    That pondering look made her look very cute. Luis couldn''t help but want to pull her cheeks. Unfortunately, she was just a projection.

    ''I have to create a body for her as soon as possible.'' His decision became even firmer at this moment.

    While he was in his thoughts, Lily also made her suggestion.

    {How about you watch a movie or a game?}

    Luis thought for a moment, then said. "Nah, I prefer watching movies together with Alicia."

    For example, if there is a sad scene, they could hug andfort each other. Holding each other''s hands while watching a stressful scene and many other simr situations. This way, he can enjoy seeing her reactions.

    So how can he enjoy these things by watching a movie alone?

    Lily also nodded, thinking that watching a movie together with Sis Alicia should be more fun.

    "So, what kind of games are there?" Sinceing to this world. Luis had never yed any games, so he wasn''t quite sure. Even the previous Luis wasn''t much into games. Though he did experience many VR battle simtions. But those aren''t counted as games.

    {We can y simple projection games such as chess, checkers, cards. Or we can try VR games. We can borrow the VR headband from the hotel staff.}

    Thinking of VR games, Luis was a little interested.

    "What kind of VR games are there?"

    {Some of the popr ones are Dungeon Master, War Mongers, Solo Adventurer, Battle of Kings...}

    "Wait! No fighting! Show me something peaceful"

    Lily was silent for a moment, then suggested.

    {What about a VR Dating Simtion?}

    When he heard Lily''s suggestion, Luis'' heart started beating faster. He sucked in a deep breath to calm himself down.

    He reminded himself again and again.

    ''It''s just a game.''

    ''Yeah, it''s just a game. But still.''

    Suddenly, Alicia''s face appeared in his mind and his racing heart calmed down. Thinking of his moments together with her, a soft smile appeared on his face.

    Shaking his head with a faint smile, he mumbled. "Just what am I thinking?"

    Looking at Lily, he said. "Let the hotel staff send a VR Headband."

    ''Yeah, it''s just a game. Why am I thinking so much nonsense?''

    ***

    On the other side. Inside a clothing store. Lily was also helping Alicia and Lumine choose their dresses.

    {That floral pattern is only a 35% match with its dim color. So it''s not good. I suggest that you try that blue one.}

    "Yeah, I think you are right, Lily," Lumine said while looking at that dress closely.

    "I''ll go and try this blue one," With that said, she picked up the blue dress and went to the changing room.

    While waiting for Lumine, Alicia, who was chatting with Lily, thought of something and asked curiously.

    "Lily, what is Luis doing now?"

    {He is bored.}

    "Is it?"

    Alicia asked with a chuckle. Thinking that it might be the first time she heard him being bored.

    Lily nodded her little head and said. {I suggested that he watch a movie or y a game.}

    "Well, that''s a good idea. It''s better if he can rx a little."

    Alicia knew how hardworking Luis was. Either doing training, researching or learning. Seeing him working so hard, she also gets motivated to improve herself.

    "Is he watching a movie?" Alicia asked, remembering their movie date. So, she thought maybe he was watching a movie.

    But to her surprise, Lily shook her head and said. {No.}

    "Why?"

    {He said that he would only watch movies with Sis Alicia, so now he is ying a game.}

    When Alicia heard Lily''s words, her eyes widened, and a blush appeared on her face, which covered her cheeks to her neck with red dew.

    ''What does he mean that he will only watch it with me?!''

    She was shy but also happy to know that Luis was still thinking about her. She stopped asking further questions to Lily as her mind was already thinking of which movie to watch with himter.

    When Lumine came out of the changing room. She was surprised to see that Alicia''s entire face was turned red.

    "What happened Alicia? Are you okay?"

    Alicia nodded with an "Um" and didn''t speak further.

    Lumine raised her eyebrow and asked doubtfully, "Don''t tell me you are blushing?"

    Alicia felt so embarrassed at this moment when she was caught by Lumine that she wanted to hide somewhere.

    Then, for the entire shopping trip, Lumine pestered and teased Alicia, while enjoying her reactions.

    Fortunately, Alicia didn''t ask what game Luis was ying. Otherwise also, her face would have been red. Not because of shyness, but anger.

    So it can be said that he didn''t suffer and even gained a plus point because of Lily''s iplete information sharing.

    Unaware of the help she provided to her master, the perpetrator, Lily was curiously watching Luis trying the pick up lines he learned in his previous life on the VR girls.

    "Do you have a name, or can I just call you ''mine''?"

    [The girl lost her interest towards you.]

    [Favourability -50]

    Luis felt that his heart might crumble at any moment.

    "What a thrash game! My Alicia would never treat me like this!"

    Thinking of the sometimes sweet and sometimes spicy Alicia, Luis felt his mood improve. So he immediately quit the game.

 Chapter 69 Alicias Declaration!

    69 Alicia''s Deration!

    Finally, the anticipated day came which everyone was waiting for. Today was the day of the entrance examination for the Oracle Academy.

    More than a hundred thousand candidates and only 600 will be selected. A tough exam with three rounds of selection and within an hour, the first test was going to begin. That is the Written exam.

    The Written Exam will be an hour-long test with 100 questions and 100 maximum marks. The question paper will beposed ofprehensive questions regarding the basic subjects. Such as Economics, History, Geography, Arithmetics, Physics, Reasoning, Magical Laws, and Human Anatomy.

    This is the basic test of knowledge of candidates.

    ***

    When Luis and Alicia arrived at the exam venue. They saw a vast number of candidates gathering on the training grounds, as per the groupings. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Luis was in the 34th group and Alicia was in the 17th group. So they were going to be separated for the written exam.

    They knew that after the Written Test, the next rounds would start immediately. So they won''t be able to meet until thest test.

    "Good luck, Alicia. See youter." Luis said with a smile, and was about to leave. But Alicia tugged his sleeves to stop him.

    "Something?" Luis asked, raising his brows. He was about to tease her again, but stopped when he saw her serious expression.

    Alicia''s turquoise blue eyes peered into his gray eyes without blinking as she spoke seriously. "Luis, I know it''s just a simple exam for us. With our current strength, this exam is not a problem."

    Luis nodded and waited for her to continue.

    "I know how hard you have worked for thest three months. But I wasn''t idle either. In this exam, I''m going to defeat you." Alicia dered as an immense fighting intent emerged inside her.

    If Luis uses his full strength, then she might not say such things. But she knew that he was only going to use his Lightning Element. Which means he won''t be using those unfair spells such as Spatial Jump.

    That is why she had the confidence to defeat him.

    It''s not like she was afraid of fighting him at his full strength. But she knew with her current strength she had no way of dealing with his spatial abilities.

    "Prepare yourself to lose in my hands." Leaving those words in a handsome pose, Alicia went to her exam area.

    Luis was left standing there from beginning to end without any words, watching her disappearing back.

    ''Lose to you, huh?''

    *Sigh*

    ''I''ve already lost my heart to you. What more do you want?''

    Shaking his head, Luis also started walking towards his exam area while thinking back on her deration.

    ''My wife is so cool!''

    ***

    Arriving at the 34th examination hall where the written test of the 34th group will be conducted. Luis entered without hesitation and searched for his seat.

    After taking his seat, Luis looked around and observed his surroundings curiously.

    In the hall, there were about a thousand candidates. He could see many of them were busy flipping through the books and doing ast-minute review.

    ''Even if it''s another world, the examinees'' situation is the same.''

    This scene reminded him of his high school time in his previous life.

    Slowly, the memories of his previous life started resurfacing in his mind.

    ''Ah, man, not now, please.''

    Luis covered his face with his hands, trying to calm his mood.

    In thest three months, Luis worked very hard and always kept himself busy. Although he said it was to prepare for the future and for his goal of bing the strongest. But that''s not the only reason. He always kept himself busy because he wanted to forget.

    He didn''t want to remember his previous life. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t forget. As he became stronger and broke through ranks, his mind also became stronger and it became even more difficult to forget. Instead, his memories became even clearer.

    He knew he should let go of his past, since there was nothing he could do about that now. He knew that, but still, he just couldn''t.

    *p*

    Luis facepalmed himself to bring back his focus to the exam.

    The candidate sitting near Luis saw his actions. But didn''t think it was weird.

    ''He must be nervous. I should cheer him up.'' Thinking so, he knocked on Luis'' table to get his attention.

    *Knock*

    Luis'' head turned to his left, and he saw a bulky boy with a buzz cut looking at him with concern.

    "Yes?" Luis looked at him in confusion.

    The buzz cut boy patted Luis'' shoulder to assure him and said. "Don''t worry, dude, everything will be fine. Just trust in yourself."

    Although Luis knew he was talking about the exam. But his words still helped him.

    With a faint smile on his face, he asked. "What''s your name?"

    "Me?" The bulky boy raised his thumb towards himself and introduced himself with a grin. "I''m Ben Dous, you can call me Ben."

    "Nice to meet you, Ben. I''m Luis Suarez. You can call me Luis."

    "Haha, Luis bud. It''s good that you cheered up."

    Since neither of them was going to revise and there was still time before the exam. They started chatting about various things. From their talk, Luis could see that Ben was an interesting person and while chatting with him, he didn''t feel bored.

    ***

    When the invigtor came and introduced himself, Luis wanted to say ''as expected of the number one academy''. Even the invigtor was a perception type. Master (B) Rank awakened.

    The invigtor asked everyone to turn off their mana bracelets and gave several warnings.

    "When the exam starts, the test paper will be presented on the screens of your table."

    "You will have one hour to answer the questions. As soon as the time is off, the screen will automatically switch off."

    "Also, if I find anyone cheating. They will be eliminated immediately."

    "That''s all."

    The invigtor stopped giving further instructions, then looked at the time and said with mana filled in his voice. "The Exam Starts Now!"

 Chapter 70 Tests!

    70 Tests!

    Just after, the invigtor''s voice fell. The screen on everyone''s table lit up. Then, without further await, all the examinees started reading the questions.

    1

    ��

    Q:1) Which one of these is mana-conducting metal?

    7

    a) Irphine

    b) Tharium

    c) Slime Metal

    d) Iron

    ...

    Q:13) Which country is the North of the Aiverson Empire?

    4

    a) Nephilim

    b) Esperia

    1

    c) Temar

    d) Grandas

    ...

    Q:29) Which of these gems is the favourite of Mermaids?

    1

    a) Diamond

    b) Ocean Jasper

    c) Lepidolite

    3

    d) Aquamarine

    2

    ...

    Q:45) Which Sacred Beast is the Sr Element?

    1

    a) Vermilion Bird

    b) White Tiger

    c) ck Tortoise

    d) Nine-Tailed Fox

    7

    ....

    Luis read all the questions one by one and started solving them easily. Even the questions that needed calctions were easy for him.

    Time passed by minute after minute. Now the entire exam hall was in silence. The faces of many examinees were pale.

    As for the ones that were daring enough to cheat, they were eliminated by the invigtor immediately. After that, even if they wanted to, no one dared.

    Some of them were already in tears and gave up.

    But Luis didn''t pay attention to any of these. His eyes were only focused on solving the test paper. From the beginning till now, his face didn''t change as he confidently answered all the questions.

    When there were still 5 minutes left for the exam to end. Luis had already solved 99 questions and was in hisst question.

    ...

    Q:100) Does the Ice Element have a Mutation?

    1

    a) Yes

    b) No

    ...

    If it was someone else other than Luis, they wouldn''t hesitate to answer ''No''. Because this is basic knowledge that Ice Element doesn''t have a mutation route.

    But Luis'' hands paused, and a frown appeared on his face.

    ''Should I answer it?''

    2

    After contemting for some time. When it was just a minute left for the exam to be over.

    Luis sighed and answered.

    ***

    "Okay, the time''s up." As the invigtor''s voice fell. The screen on everyone''s tables turned off, leaving the crying and begging voices of some candidates.

    "Hey Buddy, how was it?" Ben came over and asked.

    After their conversation, Ben had already considered Luis as his friend.

    Luis could see that Ben was confident about the exam, so he replied with a smile. "Not too bad."

    1

    "Haha, good." Benughed.

    Then, while raising his fist towards Luis for a fist bump, he said, "Let''s do our best in the next rounds and join the Academy together."

    3

    Hearing this, Luis smiled and responded to his fist-bump. "Yeah, let''s do our best."

    ***

    Now that the Written Exam was over. The candidates were asked to move to the ability testing ground allotted to their group. Which will also be the second round of tests. The Ability Test.

    The Ability test is a simple test of performance. In which the candidates will be asked to attack the target and based on their performance. They will be evaluated.

    When Luis arrived at the testing ground. He saw three options in the Ability test that the candidates need to choose from.

    Close Range.

    Mid Range.

    Long Range.

    Luis rubbed his chin and finally decided to go to the long-range area.

    In the Long Range area. The performance evaluation of the candidates was based on uracy.

    The candidates were asked to select a weapon from the shelves to use. Personal Weapons or Artifacts were not allowed.

    ''Too bad, I wanted to try my Magic Gun.''

    With a disappointed sigh, Luis waited for his turn toe.

    After waiting for half an hour. His number was finally called, along with nine others. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    When he went to select a weapon from the shelves. Luis saw that there were only two options for him to choose from. Bow or guns.

    It was a basic bow and arrow and a 9mm pistol.

    Holding the Pistol in his hands, he got familiar with it a little.

    ''Although it''s not that good. It should be fine.''

    "No. 1257!"

    Hearing his number being called. Luis immediately replied.

    "Here I am."

    The examiner nodded and asked. "Have you chosen your weapon?"

    "Yes."

    "Hmm," The Examiner saw that Luis was holding a gun. So he started exining.

    "You will shoot ten rounds in either of those targets."

    The Examiner pointed at the 100-meter, 200-meter and 300-meter targets. Then continued. "Based on your performance, I will give your evaluation."

    "When you are ready, you can start."

    With those words, the Examiner moved a few steps away, giving him space.

    Normally with the Pistol he was holding, candidates would either choose 100 meters or 200 meters.

    But Luis'' gaze was only focused on the 300-meter target.

    He raised the Pistol with one hand while aiming at the target with his perception skill. Calcting the angle and velocity of air and taking a stance. Luis looked at the target as if an eagle was looking at its prey. Then exhaled his breath.

    *Bang*

    *Bang*

    *Bang*

    *Bang*

    ....

    Luis shot all 10 rounds rapidly in session.

    "Hah." Taking a deep breath. Luis turned to look at the examiner, who was giving him a deep look. Seemingly impressed by his performance.

    3

    Because all the shots were bullseye!

    1

    ***

    Now that Luis hadpleted his test, he had some free time to move around. Because before thest test, the results of the Written Tests and the Ability test will be out.

    Only the candidates who passed can move on to the final round.

    "Lily, how long will it take for the results toe out?"

    {The second test will bepleted in about 30 minutes. Then it will take another 30 minutes for the results to be out.}

    "Hmm," Luis didn''t think it was fast, considering, if the job was given to Lily, she would have done it within a minute.

    "Well, that means I can have an hour-long break."

    Luis mumbled, and then his eyes fell on the Ice cream shop near him.

    "Hmm."

    Curious about its taste and with free time in hand, Luis decided to try some Ice cream.

    But he didn''t know yet that he would meet someone unexpected inside the Ice cream shop.

    Just so you guys know. The answers to these questions have been hinted in the previous chapters.

    Dakshay

 Chapter 71 Emily Steve!

    71 Emily Steve!

    Inside the Ice cream Shop.

    1

    The Ice cream seller had a stiff smile on his face as he waited for the customer in front of him to choose the vour from the menu. The other customers and the staff all had their eyes on this unique customer of his.

    Although this customer was very beautiful. But.

    "Hey! What are your creeps staring at?! Haven''t seen a beautiful Elven Princess?!"

    She had a rotten personality.

    "And you! The baldy with thick eyebrows!"

    The Ice cream seller''s lips twitched and his professional stiff smile was almost broken due to anger.

    Pointing at the menu, sheined. "Don''t you have any Elvish Ice cream?!"

    Even if he was angry, the Ice cream seller maintained his professionalism and answered politely and apologetically. "Miss, we don''t have an Elvish Ice cream here."

    "In the menu, we have many other varieties from which you can try."

    "Try your ass!" The Elven Princess said with a bad face. "You have the weirdest Ice creams here and you don''t even keep a simple Mint vour!"

    1

    "What the hell is this Garlic vour?! Who the heck eats it?!"

    "Red Chilli vour?! Wasn''t an Ice cream supposed to be sweet?!"

    1

    "Booger Ice Cream?!! Don''t tell me you mix your booger in it!!!"

    1

    The Ice cream seller''s smile was almost broken, but he still said politely. "Miss, we are an honest Ice cream shop. There''s nothing weird mixed in it and many people like those vours. So please don''t embarrass us."

    1

    The Eleven Princess was still a little angry and was in a bad mood because they didn''t have her favourite vours. But just when she wanted to continue, the Ice cream seller''s next words made her stop.

    "If there''s demand from the students of the academy, we will start keeping Elvish Ice creams too."

    "Really?" she asked with bright eyes.

    The Ice cream seller saw her reaction and immediately nodded. "Yes, after you join the academy. If you want, we can keep your favourite vours."

    Hearing this, her mood immediately calmed down.

    "In that case, I shall forgive you." She said, looking very magnanimous.

    ''Shouldn''t you be the one to apologise?'' the Ice cream seller wanted toin. But thinking about her identity as an elven princess, he decided to forgive this rotten girl.

    "Since you don''t have any good vours. I''ll reluctantly buy this strawberry voured ice cream."

    ''No one is forcing you to buy.'' The Ice cream seller wanted toin but his heart was also as big as an ocean. So he wouldn''t take her words to heart. Not to mention her identity is not something he can afford to mess with.

    "Also, remember not to mix your booger in it. Otherwise, I''ll smash all your garlic and red chill-voured ice creams on your shiny head!"

    1

    The Ice cream seller left to prepare her order with low shoulders and tears in his eyes. He was defeated under the poisonous tongue of this rotten Elven Princess.

    2

    ***

    Luis, who had entered the Ice cream shop a while ago, also saw this whole interaction. When he saw the Elven girl bad-mouthing the Ice cream seller. He instantly knew who she was.

    Emily Steve, the princess of the Elven Kingdom of Esperia. The daughter of the Elven Hero King, one of the five founders of the Oracle Academy and also the third female lead.

    2

    If you ask him, he doesn''t really want to interact with this girl. Even if she is beautiful and has a splendid figure. Her personality is too troublesome, even for an extremely patient man like him.

    Moreover, he already has a beautiful fiancee who looks way better than her, has a cute personality and is fun to tease.

    1

    So, ignoring her, Luis went to another counter with a beautiful, mature salesdy.

    "Wee!"

    Looking at the handsome man in front of her, the saledy weed him enthusiastically.

    Luis also smiled, wondering if his handsome face could get a discount from her.

    "Hello, do you have any rmendations for the Ice cream?"

    The saledy''s eyes brightened at hearing Luis'' polite tone. ''He is way different from that rude Elven girl.''

    With a bright smile on her face, she asked, "Do you want to try the fruit vour?"

    "Sure."

    "Then how about something sweet and ripe?"

    "I''d like to try it."

    "Great! Then I suggest this Raspberry vour. It''s very good."

    "Then please get me one," Luis said with a smile. Wondering how it will taste. His mood was quite good. Until.

    A voice sounded beside him.

    "Are you going to NTR that baldy with thick eyebrows?

    5

    Luis'' entire body was petrified. His mind went nk. He didn''t understand how could someonee to that conclusion.

    But when he saw the owner of the voice. His mood instantly became bad.

    ''Is this what people say? Even if you avoid trouble, the trouble follows you.''

    The one who said those words was none other than the rotten princess. Emily Steve.

    Even if he didn''t want to have any interaction with her. She just came and said the most annoying words.

    Fortunately, people around knew how rotten this girl was. So no one looked at Luis strangely. Even the bald salesman had veins popped on his head as he barely suppressed himself from beating this rotten princess.

    Looking at her smile as if saying, ''I know everything'' Luis also wanted to beat her up.

    But he knew that if he beat her up now. Using her in the future will be a little difficult.

    ''I should calm down first.''

    Not even a second passed, and Luis'' Performer Talent was active.

    With a displeased expression on his face, he said, "What a rude Elven girl." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "What did you say?!" Emily''s temper came up. Wondering where this human got the courage to scold her.

    "Such a bad-mouthed girl," Luis said with a sigh while shaking his head,pletely ignoring her.

    "Good! Very good! You havepletely angered me!" Emily was extremely angry at that moment. "Do you know who I am?"

    "Who are you?" Luis asked with a confused expression.

 Chapter 72 Imposter!

    72 Imposter!

    "Who are you?" Luis asked, showing a confused expression.

    1

    Closely reading his expression, Emily didn''t feel like he was lying. ''Is he telling the truth? Does he really not know?''

    Emily was a little doubtful in her heart, but she had an arrogant expression on her face as she revealed her identity. "I''m the Elven Princess of Esperia, Emily Steve!"

    When she said that, she was also observing Luis'' reaction.

    But unexpectedly, his reaction was t. Which surprised her. ''Is he unfazed by my identity?''

    Luis'' reaction surprised even the people around.

    Luis calmly looked at her and then showed a disappointed expression.

    "What a liar."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    When Emily heard that Luis didn''t believe her identity, she really wanted to beat him up.

    "Who the hell is lying?! What I am saying is true?!" she shouted angrily.

    But Luis was unfazed as he answered calmly. "There is no way the Elven princess would act so rudely in front of themon popce and discredit the majesty of the Elven Royal family."

    Hearing Luis'' calm and confident analysis. Even the surrounding people started to believe it.

    "What he said does seem right. The princess wouldn''t act like this."

    "Yeah, I have seen the princess of Aiverson Empire. She is very polite and elegant."

    "No way, but don''t you see? She looks exactly like the Elven Princess."

    "Maybe she is someone with a simr appearance."

    "Hmm, that might be true."?iscover n??w chapt??rs ??n n0??e(l)bi??(.

    ...

    As more and more people voiced out their thoughts. The eyes looking at Emily started to change.

    "I can''t believe she was an imposter."

    "I don''t understand. Why would someone so beautiful do something like this?"

    "Didn''t you see her personality?"

    "Yeah, you are right."

    This sudden change dumbfounded Emily. This may be the first time she was called an imposter and that too of her own.

    Maybe showing her identity proof in her mana bracelet would have saved the situation. But that would have been even more embarrassing.

    Gritting her teeth, she looked at Luis. Who calmly made the payment after taking his ice cream and was about to leave.

    "STOP RIGHT THERE!!!"

    "I don''t have anything to talk about with an imposter." Leaving those calm and unhurried words, he left the shop handsomely.

    "YOU!!!" Emily felt like this was the first time she had been so angry in her life.

    She hastily made her payment and left after him.

    Of course, she didn''t forget to leave a sentence behind.

    "I am not an imposter."

    ***

    Leaving the Ice cream shop. Luis tasted the Ice cream.

    "It does taste good." He was very satisfied with the rmendation of the saledy.

    ''Next time, I should bring Alicia too.'' Just when he was nning his future date with Alicia. He heard an annoying voice from behind.

    "STOP RIGHT THERE!"

    ''Didn''t she leave?'' Luis turned around with a sigh, looking at Emily, who stood 2 meters behind him.

    "What do you want, Princess?" Luis asked in a bad tone.

    "So, you do know my identity!!!" Emily said while gritting her teeth.

    "Well, I decided to believe in you," Luis replied without changing his face.

    This made Emily even more angry.

    "How. Dare. You. Embarrass. Me!!!"

    "Embarrass you?" Luis chuckled and then said with a cold face. "You should know what you did was even more rude."

    Staring into his eyes, she said, "I JUST asked a question."

    There''s no way she would admit her mistake.

    "Yeah, and I also JUST doubted your identity. So, we are even, right? Princess." Luis said with a smile.

    Emily felt like smashing his face. This was the first time someone annoyed her so much.

    "What''s your name?"

    After knowing his identity, she will decide how to deal with him. Since he could argue and taunt her even after knowing her identity. He must have a certain reason for his confidence. His background shouldn''t be simple.

    That is also the reason she hadn''t made a move on him yet. Otherwise, she would have already broken his few bones, at the very least.

    Even if she had a rotten mouth and didn''t have the elegance of a princess. She wasn''t stupid.

    When she asked for his name, Luis instantly understood her thoughts.

    So, with a smile, he introduced himself.

    "I''m Luis Suarez. From Aiverson Empire."

    Hearing his name, Emily had a frown on her face, as she was thinking about his identity.

    ''Suarez Family? Is it?''

    "Are you somehow rted to the Hero Henry Suarez?" She asked doubtfully.

    Luis nodded and admitted. "He is my grandfather."

    Confirming his identity, Emily''s expression became in. Even if she wanted to strangle him before. Now she can''t. Unless there''s an extreme hatred between them. So, taking a deep breath, she made her decision.

    "Well, you are right. I was rude to you first. So let''s call it even. Let me reintroduce myself. I''m Emily Steve. The princess of Esperia Kingdom and the daughter of the Elven Hero King. Nice to meet you, Mr. Luis."

    Luis nodded, seeing her change in character. ''I''m certain if I was a normal person. She would have broken my bones by now.''

    "I''m Luis Suarez, from the Suarez Family of the Aiverson Empire. Nice to meet you too, Miss Emily."

    Seeing his perfect gentlemanly performance. As if the previous interaction never happened. Emily''s brows couldn''t help but twitch.

    But she was very unwilling in her heart and wanted to beat him up somehow.

    ''Hm?''

    Suddenly, a thought shed through her mind as she asked.

    "Mr. Luis is also taking part in the entrance exam, right?"

    "Yes." Luis nodded while wondering what she was nning.

    "Really?!" Emily showed a surprised expression. Then, with a beautiful smile, she said. "That''s great! This way we can join the Academy together."

    Luis nodded, having some idea about what she was going to say.

    And as he expected, the next second she showed a thoughtful look and uttered.

    "But this also means we will bepetitors in the next round."

    ''I knew it!'' Luis thought inwardly.

    "So I hope to have a healthypetition with Mr. Luis."

    Luis had a smile on his face as he said. "Yeah, me too."

    Two people with fake smiles nodded at each other and then left their way.

    3

    Next is the final round!

    Dakshay

 Chapter 73 Rura Wayne!

    Chapter 73 Rura Wayne!

    "Lily."

    {Yes, Master?}

    "Check the recordings and analyze whether her approach was coincidental or not."

    Thinking back on Emily''s actions, he couldn''t help but doubt.

    {... From her behavior analysis, it''s a 95% possibility that it was coincidental.}

    Hearing Lily''s analysis, Luis was a little thoughtful. ''Was I thinking too much?''

    *Beep*

    {Master, your results are out.

    Candidate - 1257

    Written Test - 100 Marks

    Ability Test (Long Range) - 100 Marks

    You have been asked to arrive at the Stadium, before 11:00 A.M.}

    When Luis saw his results, his expression didn''t change much because he had long expected this. He checked the time. It was 10:25 A.M.

    He bought a cream bun from a nearby shop and started walking in the direction of the stadium.

    ***

    The stadium of the Oracle Academy has more than 300,000 seating capacity. But even so, today, all the seats were full, and there were even people standing, waiting for the most exciting part of the entrance exam to be held here.

    Suddenly, the music that was being yed stopped and the entire venue fell into silence. The eyes of the audience were either on the projection screen or at the center of the stadium.

    Where they saw a man appear in a ck suit and ck gloves. Holding a cane in his hand and wearing gold-rimmed sses.

    Showing a handsome smile, the man used mana to transmit his voice throughout the entire stadium.

    [Wee Ladies and Gentlemen!]

    [It is my pleasure to have you all on this special asion. I am Kevin, your host for today and I''ll be responsible for guiding you all through this entire event. So sit back and enjoy.]

    OHHHHHHHH!!!

    Excited cheers and apuse of the audience resounded throughout the stadium.

    After the cheers subsided. Kevin started speaking again.

    [In today''s examination. More than 100,000 students participated and among them after two rounds of selection we have 1200 candidates who reached the final round.]

    [So, please have a round of apuse for them!]

    WAAHHHHH (Cheers rang out.)

    [Yeah, that''s the energy!]

    Kevin also started apuding.

    [Now let me introduce you all to the final round and its rules.]

    When Kevin said this, the audience also went silent, listening intently.

    [The final round is called the Ranking Assessment Survival Test. This round will take ce in the virtual world. Where we will send all the 1200 candidates to a 5x5 km ind.]

    [The Ind has resources and monsters. The candidates willpete with each other to improve in the ranking. It is based on the elimination system. The first 600 candidates that are eliminated will be immediately disqualified.]

    [After that, the rankings will start. By getting better ranks, the students will get more privileges and benefits while in the academy.]

    [The time limit is 2 hours and in thest thirty minutes, the monsters will be stronger. Strong enough to kill a C rank.]

    [This battle royale will be the test of their strength, instinct, knowledge, and most of all, the test of their survival ability.]

    ***

    At this time, all the 1,200 candidates were taken to arge hall where more than 2,000 full dive VR capsules were present.

    Luis happened to see Alicia amidst the crowd, but he didn''t intend to go talk to her now.

    Getting his capsule number from the staff, he didn''t waste time and used his perception to search for the capsule allotted to him.

    But when he arrived near his capsule. He was surprised to see the person beside him.

    Those deep ruby eyes and that long crimson hair tied into a ponytail, with bangs on both sides of her forehead.

    This girl was none other than Rura Wayne. The first female lead of the Holy Dragon Knight. She is well known by her title of the Genius Alchemist.

    For the protagonist, she was the most important help in his early stages. The special forms she developed helped the protagonist''s strength grow exponentially.

    The most important one was the form of the Multiplier Potion that she made.

    Thinking of the Multiplier Potion, even Luis couldn''t help but feel a little greedy.

    Because drinking it will give twice the cultivation results and the further developed one that she made in the future gave 4 times the cultivation effect.

    Just imagine. He can get the same improvement with just a quarter of effort. In his path of bing the strongest, this Multiplier Potion is just a shortcut. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''If there''s nothing wrong. It should still be in the development stage. From what I remember. Rura has been working in the Multiplier Potion''s form for three years, but because she was missing an important ingredient, it always ended up in failure. It was not until the second semester that she finally seeded.''

    ''Sigh. If only I knew theplete form, it wouldn''t have been so troublesome.''

    ''Moreover, she has been developing and studying it for 3 years. So even if I steal her research papers, I don''t think other alchemists could develop the form before her.''

    ''Also, finding another S grade talent in Alchemy is even more difficult. Because only three people with S grade talent in Alchemy appeared in the entire game.''

    While Luis was busy with his thoughts, the staff member had already set up the capsule for him.

    Rura, who was about to enter her Dive Capsule, also nced at Luis, who entered his capsule at the same time.

    A moment ago, she felt his gaze on her. Normally she would have ignored it like always, as she is used to peoples'' gazes. But for some reason, she felt it was different this time. Her intuition told her that this person wasn''t simple and it gave her a strange feeling.

    ''Hah?! What nonsense am I thinking?! Keep your mind straight, Rura! Entering this academy is the ticket to change your destiny.''

    Reminding herself while giving ast look at Luis, she entered her Dive capsule.

    After, all the 1200 candidates entered the Dive Capsules.

    Outside, at the stadium, Kevin also announced.

    [All the candidates are ready to enter the VR world.]

    [At the count of three! The Raking Assessement Survival Test will begin.]

    [EVERYONE WITH ME?!!!]

    YAAAAAHHHHH

    [Okay then!]

    [THREE!!!]

    [TWO!!!]

    [AND!!! ONEEE!!!]

    [Let the Battles Begin!!!]

 Chapter 74 Hunting!

    Chapter 74 Hunting!

    When Luis opened his eyes, he found himself surrounded by trees. He saw a 30-second timer blinking at the corner of his eyes. It was the time given to the candidates to familiarize themselves with the surroundings after entering the VR world.

    Luis checked the Mana Bracelet in which only the storage function was working.

    If he wanted to, he could have bypassed the security of this VR world to let Lily enter here and make changes.

    ''But there is no need for that. Because in this round.''

    With a faint smile on his face, he took out his Magic Gun from the storage and uttered, "I''ll be enjoying the hunt!''

    As the timer count fell to zero. Kevin''s voice also resounded inside the VR world like a voice of heaven.

    [Let the Battles Begin!!!]

    Luis saw at the corner of his eyes that in ce of the previous timer, another timer had already started.

    [01:59:58]

    "I should start too," Luis mumbled as the next second he pointed the Magin Gun at 74 degrees above his head and shot.

    *Bang*

    A blueser bullet made of mana shot out from the Magic Gun. Then, whistling a tune, Luis started walking in a certain direction.

    After he left, the rustling sound of leaves sounded and a body fell from the tree.

    There was a hole in the eliminated candidate''s head, and his body was disappearing into particles.

    The poor guy was dropped directly on top of the tree. He wanted to sneak attack on Luis. But was eliminated before he could figure out what happened.

    Luis saw a kill count icon appear below the timer.

    [Kills: 01] n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He just nced at it and continued walking.

    Though he couldn''t help but wonder, ''Just how many unfortunate people were dropped at other weird locations.''

    Shaking his head, he mumbled.

    "Whatever. Let''s just look for the next target."

    ---

    Somewhere inside the VR world. Emily''s entire body was wet from head to toe, standing at the shore of a river. She couldn''t help but curse.

    "DAMN!!! The Academy''s Management! Dropping me inside a river!"

    Emily was very angry at the moment. But seeing that the test had already begun, she tried to calm herself down.

    "Ah, whatever. I''ll deal with themter. I should first dry myself."

    With her Conjuror Talent, she started to chant.

    "Come forth Wind elemental!"

    A beautiful crystal green butterfly appeared above her palm.

    "Dry my clothes and hair." While saying that, she also made a note in her mind to take revenge on the Academy''s management.

    ***

    Outside the VR world.

    The scenes happening inside the VR world were being disyed on the screen at the stadium.

    [It''s just been a minute since the test has started and 18 candidates have already been eliminated.]

    [The battles are intense and chaotic.]

    The audience also watched the screen intently as various battles were being disyed together.

    One-on-one battles.

    Sneak attacks.

    Candidates trying to form a group to survive or setting up traps.

    Fighting with monsters.

    An unfortunate girl fell into the river, cursing the management.

    [Ahem, all the dropping locations are random.]

    Kevin immediately rified while thinking that the Elven Princess'' luck was too bad. But this was not to me on them.

    The audience wasughing, cheering, and enjoying the battles.

    Suddenly, the screen changed, and the entire stadium fell into silence.

    Even Kevin''s face couldn''t help but change.

    ...

    On the screen, a dozen candidatesy dead on the muddy ground with holes at the centre of their brows. Those lifeless bodies gave off an eerie feeling.

    They saw the back of a man holding a stylish gun in his right hand, with his left hand in his pocket.

    ???

    ???

    Whistling a tune and walking past the disappearing bodies elegantly as if taking a stroll.

    ...

    The audience couldn''t help but get goosebumps over their bodies.

    Even when the screen changed, showing other battles. The audience''s mind was still thinking back on the scene they had just witnessed.

    ---

    Inside a VIP box, a silver-haired woman had a charming smile on her face.

    Turning to the ck-haired man beside her, she eximed.

    "Did you see that, dear?"

    "My son is so cool."

    Lumine was gleaming in joy. While also petting Ivy, who was sleeping on herp.

    Ronald also nodded with a satisfied expression on his face and said with a smile. "As expected, of the genes of the Suarez family. Handsome and cool."

    David was silently sitting in a corner thinking that his future son-inw was good.

    Hearing Ronald''s statement, he couldn''t help but look over speechlessly, wondering, ''What does Luis'' elegance have to do with your family''s genes?''

    But seeing how happy they were, he shook his head with a smile and continued looking at the screen, waiting for Alicia to appear.

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    Alicia at this moment was surrounded by a group of candidates who had grouped to survive and attack other candidates.

    They were pretty confident seeing Alicia, who was alone being surrounded by them.

    But Alicia was still looking at them coldly.

    One of the candidates surrounding her shouted, giving her a choice.

    "Join us or die."

    Alicia looked at them indifferently and then, without answering, she waved her hand.

    *Swish*

    *Swish*

    *Swish*

    ...

    Swishing sounds in the air were heard, and shards of ice were shot at fast speed directly at the necks of those candidates, killing them.

    [Kills: 18]

    Alicia didn''t give them a second nce while muttering.

    "Next time, I won''t waste mana. So I can do my best while fighting with Luis."

    Just thinking about it. She couldn''t help but get excited.

    "Wait for me, Luis. Today, I''ll defeat you."

    ---

    Luis, on the other side, was still using his Magic Gun to kill all the candidates he met.

    ''For these people, my Magic Gun is enough. There''s no need to waste time and energy showing my other abilities.''

    With this thought in mind, Luis strolled around while shootingser bullets eliminating some candidates so the test could end early.

    *Bang*

    *Bang*

    ...

    [Kills - 47]

    ncing at the kill count, Luis couldn''t help but think.

    ''Wasn''t there a hidden bonus for 200+ kills?''

    ***

    ---

    Character Info:

    ---

    Emily Steve - Third Female lead (Elven Princess)

    Race - Elf (Bloodline High Elf)

    Attribute - Wind

    Talents -

    1) Fairy arts (S)

    2) Conjuror (A)

    3) Archery (S)

    ***

 Chapter 75 Survival!

    Chapter 75 Survival!

    Inside the woods, four panic-stricken people were running at a fast speed while also dodging the obstacles in their way.

    From time to time, they were ncing at their backs while also cursing inside their minds in frustration.

    ''Damn! Why the hell do we have to meet him?!''

    ''As long as we can escape this time! We can surely make it to the top 600!'' n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Just when the person running at the front thought of this. A high-pitched voice, full of unwillingness, sounded from behind.

    "NOOOOO!!!"

    "AHHH!"

    Their legs didn''t stop running. But the one in front still nced to see the picture behind him. His eyes couldn''t help but widen, his pupils dted, and a strong sense of urgency emerged in his mind.

    ''Run! Run! Why can''t I run any faster?!''

    His friend''s chest was pierced by a spear and a handsome blonde boy was looking at the disappearing body, contemptuously.

    The blonde boy took out the spear while stylishly rotating it, then he looked in the direction of three people running with disdain.

    "Do they think they can escape from me? What na?ve fools?"

    With a chuckle, the blonde boy chased them like a hunter chasing his prey.

    His golden eyes were sharp like an eagle, not letting his prey escape his sight.

    The blonde boy''s speed was very fast. It didn''t take long for him to catch up with them.

    "AAAHH!"

    Another scream sounded, and the one running at the end fell.

    The other two gulped their saliva nervously, not even daring to look behind.

    "Just face me or be eliminated honestly.''

    The blonde boy shouted, hoping for a battle. But those two didn''t respond. Instead, their running speed increased further.

    Seeing this, the blonde boy clicked his tongue while muttering. "Cowards."

    He was a little annoyed and wasn''t in the mood to y this chasing game anymore.

    "Let''s end this."

    As he said that, he ran at an extreme speed, instantly closing the distance between them.

    Then, under the horrified gazes of the two, he swung his spear horizontally, directly beheading one of them.

    With a calm expression, he turned to look at thest one who didn''t run anymore. Instead, pulled out a sword and took a stance facing him.

    "You are not going to run anymore?" The blonde boy asked, looking at the scrawny boy in front of him curiously.

    The scrawny boy shook his head and said, "No, Prince Thomas, in my current situation, the chances of escaping are zero."

    Thomas wasn''t surprised that the scrawny boy in front of him knew his identity.

    "So, what is the difference between facing me and giving up?" Thomas asked mockingly.

    The scrawny boy didn''t understand why Prince Thomas was asking so many questions. But, thinking that maybe he could waste some time talking and, if lucky, enter the top 600. So he also answered seriously.

    "No, Prince Thomas, while facing you. I''ll still think of a way to escape. Even if there''s a little chance to survive for even a second longer. I''ll keep trying."

    "You are still thinking of escaping? What a fool! You are just a coward," Thomas said with a slight disappointment.

    The scrawny boy felt a little angry, so even when he knew the difference in power and status between them, he still rebuked him.

    "No Prince Thomas, there''s a difference between cowardice and stupidity."

    Thomas could pretty much read the scrawny boy''s thoughts from his expression. But he didn''t care about that. Instead, he asked with a little interest. "Oh, how so?"

    "Bravery without sufficient strength is in stupidity."

    "I know the difference in power between us, so if I have the option to escape, I''d rather be a coward and try to survive as long as I can instead of fighting head-on."

    Thomas looked at him inly and asked, "So, if there wasn''t such a difference in strength between us, then you would have fought bravely?"

    "Yes," the scrawny boy answered instantly with a serious expression.

    When he saw his eyes, Thomas knew that he was serious. But looking at his physique, he couldn''t help but be doubtful.

    "What''s your name?"

    The scrawny boy was a little taken aback when Thomas suddenly asked for him. But he still answered with a shutter.

    "S-Sid, Sid Klemp!"

    "So, Sid, if what you said is true, the vast majority of the candidates shouldn''t be much different from your strength. If I let you go, you should be able to enter the Academy, right?"

    When Sid heard this, his eyes brightened, and with some anticipation, he answered without hesitation.

    "Yes, I will."

    Thomas chuckled and said, "Well then, If I see you at the academy. I''ll let you be my subordinate."

    Hearing this, Sid was so happy that his mood couldn''t be described. He immediately sheathed the sword and bowed.

    "I will do my best, Prince Thomas."

    Thomas nodded and was about to leave. But stopped and left behind a sentence. "Also, next time try being disrespectful to me or talking nonsense and ying word games, I''ll chop you up. In reality."

    Sid gulped his saliva nervously and lowered his head in shame.

    Thomas chuckled seeing Sid''s reaction, then with a high leap, he jumped from tree to tree and disappeared from Sid''s sight.

    After Thomas left, Sid''s legs went weak and he couldn''t help but fall to his knees.

    "I survived."

    He couldn''t help but weep tears of joy. Talking with Thomas was very nerve-wracking for him. Now he was mentally exhausted.

    "Thankfully, I still have a chance to enter the Academy."

    "If what Prince Thomas said is true, and he takes me under. Then I will have a powerful backing at the academy."

    "I have to survive till the Top 600 no matter what.''

    With a firm expression on his face, Sid tightened his fists. Then, looking around, he mumbled with caution.

    "I should find a ce to hide first."

    ***

    ''Although that guy is too weak. He still has his way with words. He might be a little useful.''

    Thomas thought while running towards the deeper area of the forest.

 Chapter 76 Rura vS Thomas!

    Chapter 76 Rura vS Thomas!

    Deep inside the forest was a beautifulke. The reflection of trees and the greenery mirrored above theke, making it look like a beautifulndscape.

    At the edge of theke was standing a beautiful crimson-haired girl holding a bow in her hands while looking at the stillke.

    Her face was as calm as theke in front of her. Her beauty, along with the beautifulke, was so harmonized that it looked like a beautiful masterpiece of a world-ss painter.

    GRAAOOO!

    Suddenly a painful roar sounded, which disrupted this perfect harmony.

    From the bushes, jumped out an injured Fang Wolf, an F-rank monster. Followed by a blonde-haired boy who had a scornful expression on his face.

    "What''s wrong, Puppy?"

    The Fang Wolf looked at him with hatred. But the blonde-haired boy didn''t care. He stylishly swung his spear and gave the final blow.

    Splurge

    "Too weak..." He muttered.

    !!!

    Suddenly, he sensed danger and jumped up in the air. Two arrows raging with intense me were shot at his previous location. If it was just a second longer, he would have been shamed for his entire life by not even qualifying to join the Academy.

    "Damn! How careless!"

    He cursed, thinking that he was negligent, that he didn''t even notice the presence of another person.

    Turning to look at the person who shot those arrows. He couldn''t help but be surprised.

    "Rura!"

    "Oh, it''s Prince Thomas. Good to see you." Rura said that, but her face didn''t show the slightest joy.

    Thomas'' lips twitched. He would have been delighted to receive Rura''s greeting. If she did it while not pointing an arrow at his face.

    "Why did you shoot me?" Thomas asked. He was still a little angry, thinking it almost eliminated him.

    "My apologies, Prince Thomas. I thought some madman abused and killed the injured puppy. So I couldn''t help but shoot. It seems I misunderstood," Rura said while pointing at the dead Fang Wolf. Her tone was t and there was not the slightest bit of sincerity.

    "I see, but why are you still pointing your arrow at me?" Thomas asked with a calm expression. Although Rura had said so much, he wasn''t angry at her and even forgave her immediately, considering her identity as his future wife (crush).

    "... I wanted to show Prince Thomas my improvement in archery. I wonder if Prince Thomas is ready to man up and experience it personally."

    Rura said with a cold face and a t tone. It seemed that if not for Thomas''s identity, she wouldn''t have said so much nonsense and shot already.

    ''You want to shoot at my face to show your archery skills?''

    Thomas wanted to, but he couldn''t get angry at this haughty girl in front of him. After all, his love for his future wife (crush) is as vast as an ocean.

    In love, so what if he needs to suffer some domestic violence?

    "Well, next time remember to remind me first before you start showing your skills."

    Thomas immediately swallowed all the grievances he had in his heart and said in a gentle voice.

    And Rura answered with a shot of a fire arrow at his face.

    *Swish*

    Facing the fire arrow, Thomas hastily swung his spear to deflect it.

    "I told you Rura, you should remind me first," Thomasined and was about to continue, but stopped.

    He saw Rura making a distance between them while rapidly shooting a barrage of arrows.

    ''Shit!''

    For the first few fire arrows, Thomas deflected them. But as the number and the attack power of the fire arrows started increasing, Thomas found it a little difficult to deal with them with his normal moves.

    "Rura, are you getting serious?"

    Thomas asked aloud. But Rura didn''t answer.

    "In that case, I''ll also get serious."

    Thomas held the spear in his left hand, using it to deflect the fire arrows, then raising his free right hand, he shouted.

    "Witness the power of the Aiverson Bloodline."

    "White mes!"

    A shield made of white mes emerged from his hand, which soon engulfed all the fire arrows.

    Seeing that Thomas had started using White mes, Rura stopped shooting. Since she knew it wouldn''t be effective.

    But she also wasn''t in the mood to deal with him anymore. So, taking advantage of the time that White me shield covered his vision, she immediately left.

    When Thomas removed the White me shield, he looked around and couldn''t find Rura''s figure.

    "Did she leave?"

    Thomas mumbled with some disappointment.

    ***

    At this time both Rura and Thomas had no idea that on the opposite end of the Lake, someone was watching their entire fight sitting on top of a tree eating cream bun.

    "It''s over, just like this?"

    Luis muttered in disappointment.

    "They didn''t even use any skill or special moves."

    He thought it was a good show to watch, but it ended too early.

    "Whatever. I''ll get to see a lot more drama in the academy, so it''s fine either way."

    After chewing another bite of the cream bun. Luis uttered.

    "But really, the Bloodline ability of the Aiverson royal family is good."

    "If only others could awaken as easily as them."

    Luis mumbled while sighing. Then, looking at Thomas, who soon left after, he couldn''t help but think. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ''I don''t know if we will be enemies in the future.''

    ''We should be, considering that I am going to kill his brother and father in the future.''

    In the game story, Thomas was the protagonist''s rival in the academy and also his enemy, but after the middle stages, he became his good friend andpanion.

    The protagonist''s thinking was that even if Thomas was his enemy before. He was still a good person. Because of this thinking, he managed to gain an excellent partner.

    ''Whatever, it doesn''t matter to me.''

    ''For what I believe is that a good enemy is a dead enemy.''

    ''So as long as hees in my way, he shall die.''

    ***

    ---

    Character Info:

    ---

    Rura Wayne - First Female lead

    Attribute - Fire

    Talents -

    1) Spell Caster (A)

    2) Archery (A)

    3) Alchemy (S)

    ---

 Chapter 77 Confrontation!

    Chapter 77 Confrontation!

    Minutes passed by and the battles inside the VR world became intense, as more and more candidates were eliminated.

    After only half an hour since the start of the test, an announcement was made.

    [Now only the Top 600 are left! From this moment onwards, there will be no disqualification and the rankings will start!]

    Kevin''s voice sounded all across the VR world like the voice of heaven.

    For many candidates who were struggling hard to survive. They couldn''t help but cry tears of joy.

    "D-Did I hear that right?"

    "Haha, I survived. I am qualified to join the academy."

    "Mom, your son made it to the number one academy in the world."

    "Now I don''t have to worry about being disqualified. Let''s fight."

    ***

    Luis looked up at the sky and mumbled. "Took them long enough."

    Then his eyes swept back in front of him where a brawny boy was holding a huge shield, blocking Luis from killing him.

    ''He seems to have talent rted to shield arts.'' Luis thought when he saw how easily the brawny boy could move around with such arge shield.

    Holding the shield in his hand, the brawny boy had a lot of confidence in himself while facing Luis.

    "Haha, you can''t break through my defence."

    "I have seen your attacks. You shoot mana from that gun of yours, and my shield is extremely resistant to mana. You can''t defeat me."

    "Just admit defeat and be eliminated by me. Anyway, you won''t be disqualified anymore." The brawny boy said confidently while thinking inside his mind. ''This guy''s only way of attack is that gun. Now that I have its restraint, he can''t do anything. He must be very helpless now.''

    Luis just shook his head with a sigh and uttered, "It seems that I have been underestimated."

    "Huh?" Just when the brawny boy was confused by Luis'' sentence.

    *Bang!*

    Luis shot a mana bullet at the brawny boy''s toe. A hole appeared in the ground and some part of his toe was sted off. Because of the pain and imbnce, the brawny boy gave a small opening. Then, before he could react.

    *Bang!*

    Luis shot again and sted his head off. Looking at the disappearing body, he said.

    "So, what if that shield is good? You need to learn how to use it properly first."

    Then his eyes nced at his kill count. ''108 kills, huh? So, 92 more to go. Hmm.''

    While Luis was still deep in his thoughts. From the soil half a meter away from him. A tree root came out, which slowly crept up towards him. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    *Bang!*

    But it was all under Luis'' perception, so he immediately sted it off.

    ''A tree root?''

    Suddenly, a name and a lot of information appeared in his mind.

    ''It must be her.''

    ''Seraphina Evansville! The fifth female lead!"

    Using his perception, he immediately looked around.

    ''Huh, she left?''

    Her set of actions confused Luis. If she wasn''t going to fight him, why did she make a move? But it didn''t take long for him to find the reason.

    He sensed that from another direction, another group of people came and attacked her. She was busy fighting them, so she couldn''t focus on him.

    ''Well, there are five people around her. Including her, I can get six kills.''

    ''But if I kill her now, she wouldn''t even be in the top 500. The Evansville family will be very disappointed in her.''

    Luis was wondering whether to make a move or not. Because he needs to obtain the rights of some dungeons from the Evansville family and if she is defeated by him now. He wasn''t sure if the Evansville family would make the deal difficult. If it''s not necessary, he doesn''t want to take extreme means.

    While he was still thinking, Seraphina had already ended the battle and left.

    Only then did Luis realise his mistake.

    ''Ugh, I could have at least killed the other five.''

    *Sigh*

    ''Whatever, there are many candidates out there for me to hunt.''

    Just as he was about to leave, he sensed another interesting confrontation that was happening not far away from him.

    His feet moved at insane speed, leaving after images. Within a few seconds, he arrived at that location.

    Hiding his presence, he sat on a tree looking at the two golden-haired beauties who were facing each other.

    The one on the right was the annoying person whom he met at the Ice cream shop. The rotten Elven princess, Emily Steve.

    Facing her on the left was a beautiful girl who had silky blonde hair and golden eyes as beautiful as Topaz. Her facial features were a bit simr to Thomas''. No surprise there. After all, she was his sister.

    Urs Aiverson, the first princess of the Aiverson Royal Family, and also the fourth female lead.

    ''I didn''t think I could get to see a confrontation between two princesses.''

    ''Two princesses with opposite personalities. One with a rotten mouth and the other, who is extremely polite and humble.''

    ''Can this be considered a princess battle between the Aiverson Empire and the Esperia kingdom?''

    ''I wonder what kind of interesting show will be there to watch.''

    Luis couldn''t help but get excited. He took out some snacks and a can of carbonated mana drink from the mana bracelet. Then waited for the drama to start.

    But he didn''t know that at this moment, not only him.

    Even in the outside world, this confrontation was being disyed on the screen. Everyone in the stadium was looking at this confrontation curiously.

    [This is an encounter between two powerful candidates with great potential. The one on the right is Emily Steve, the princess of the Esperia kingdom, and on the left is Urs Aiverson, the first princess of the Aiverson Empire. Let''s see if they can show us a great fight.]

    OOOHHHHH!

    YAAHHHHH!

    Loud cheers erupted inside the stadium. The identity of the princesses wasn''t a secret. And after Kevin''s introduction. Those who didn''t know also knew about it now.

    Now everyone was waiting for an exciting battle to start.

 Chapter 78 White Tiger!

    Chapter 78 White Tiger!

    Now everyone had the same thought in mind that this would be an interesting battle.

    Inside the VR world.

    Looking at Emily in front of her, Urs said, "It has been a long time, Princess Emily. If I remember correctly, thest time we met was at the World Conference three years ago."

    Emily also nodded and replied, "Yeah, you are still the same as before."

    Luis was a bit surprised, wondering, ''What kind of medicine did this rotten princess take?'' But her follow-up words and actions made him nod, ''as expected!''

    "You didn''t grow up at all."

    Urs didn''t understand at first, thinking ''I did grow up a few centimetres though''. But when she saw Emily ncing towards her chest area. She immediately understood, and her face flushed in shame.

    Even the polite Urs couldn''t help but want to p Emily at this moment. But she knew Emily''s personality well, so she took a deep breath and calmed herself down.

    Fortunately, the camera angles didn''t show their expressions, so the audience didn''t think about anything weird.

    Urs showed a polite smile and said, "We can have a good chatter, Princess Emily. I believe the test is more important currently."

    Emily also nodded and said, "You are right. I also want to see how strong you are."

    "Then don''t mind me, Princess Emily, and forgive me if I give you a heavy hand."

    Saying that she didn''t continue talking with Emily, and immediately used her move.

    "Oh, the spirits of nature answer my call. I behest you to defeat my enemy."

    As she finished her chant, an elemental white tiger made of white mes appeared in front of her.

    Luis didn''t show much of a reaction, just continued eating his snacks while waiting for the fight to begin.

    But in the outside world, the audience was in an uproar.

    ...

    "Is that the legendary White Tiger?!"

    "No way, how can it be!!!"

    "Why will it appear here?!"

    "She summoned a scared beast?!"

    "It shouldn''t be! It should just be a normal tiger!"

    "But look, it''s raging in White mes!"

    White Tiger is the legendary sacred beast whose element is white mes. It is said that the ancestors of the Aiverson royal family received the blessing of the Legendary White Tiger. Then, their elements mutated, and they gained the ability to use White mes.

    After that, theter generations also inherited those blessings in the form of their bloodline.

    Currently, the king, the first prince, the second prince and even the first princess inherited the ability to use White mes.

    But when the people saw the first princess summoning the legendary sacred beast, they couldn''t calm down.

    Kevin also noticed the panic among the audience. So he immediately rified.

    [Everyone, this isn''t a sacred beast. What Princess Urs has summoned is just an elemental spirit that had taken the form of a white tiger.]

    Hearing this, they immediately calmed down. Of course, many people already knew about it and didn''t care. They just continued to watch the battle.

    ...

    Inside the VR world.

    Emily looked at the elemental spirit and also chanted.

    "Come forth Wind elementals!"

    Winds blew by and at the next moment, six crystal green butterflies appeared around her, pping their wings beautifully.

    Looking at the butterflies facing a tiger. Urs was very calm. She knew even if the form was just a butterfly, they still had the power of an elemental. So she still had to take it seriously.

    "Go! Wind Elemental! Defeat that White Tiger!"

    Emilymanded as those six butterflies flew towards the white tiger extremely fast, leaving multiple projections in the air.

    The white tiger opened his mouth wide and shot an orb of raging white mes.

    The butterflies pped their wings in synchronisation, sending arc-shaped wind shes cut forward.

    *Boom!*

    The attacks collided with each other, creating a loud explosion.

    ''This explosion should have attracted other people''s attention.'' Luis thought, but didn''t care much. It was a good thing for him if more people were attracted here. That way, he could increase his kill count.

    Emily saw that Wind Elementals surrounded the White Tiger, and Urs was open. So, she immediately took out her bow and pulled the string.

    "Wind Arrow!"

    An elemental arrow appeared out of thin air as she released the string.

    *Swish* n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The wind arrow was projected extremely fast, aiming for Urs''s eye.

    But Urs was prepared. Facing the Wind Arrow, she immediately formed a white me shield.

    The wind arrow collided with the white me shield and disappeared.

    Emily saw that her move had failed and wasn''t disappointed. Instead, she used the opportunity when Urs''s vision was covered to get close to her.

    "Physique Boost."

    When Luis heard Emily use Physique Boost. He couldn''t help but envy her.

    ''How nice is this Conjuror Talent? Just by blessing herself with Physique Boost, she can have an overall increase of her physical attributes by twice as much or even more.''

    ''Though it''s for a limited period. But still.''

    ''Sigh... No point thinking about it.''

    Luis took a sip of the carbonate mana drink and focused on the battle.

    By the time Urs removed the me shield. Emily was already near her.

    When Urs was surprised, Emily didn''t give her a chance and immediately attacked.

    "Wind Gauntlet!"

    Wind des encircled around Emily''s fist, forming a gauntlet as she punched out.

    Urs didn''t have enough time to counter the attack. She immediately covered her hands with white mes and crossed them in front of her to block Emily''s punch.

    *Boom!*

    Due to the powerful impact, Urs was pushed back 15 meters. The white mes covering her hands dissipated and what appeared in everyone''s sight were two wounded arms covered in several cuts.

    "You are strong, Princess Emily!" Urs eximed with some admiration.

    The punch she received was very powerful. Even though she was careless and made a big mistake. It didn''t stop her from admiring Emily.

    "So are you." Emily knew that Urs wasn''t weak, but still. "You are wounded. So you can''t win."

    ***

    ---

    Character Info:

    ---

    Thomas Aiverson (Prince)

    Attribute - White me

    Talents -

    1) Spearmanship (S)

    2) Martial Arts (A)

    3) Mage (A)

    ---

 Chapter 79 Shock!

    Chapter 79 Shock!

    "I know," Urs admitted, but facing Emily, she was extremely calm. As if she wasn''t worried in the slightest.

    This situation made Emily frown, wondering what other cards Urs had. ''I should defeat her fast before she makes any extra moves.''

    So she immediately started preparing for her finisher move while cautiously observing Urs.

    "If you know, then see you at the academy, Princess Urs."

    Saying that Emily, immediately aimed her bow at Urs and pulled the string without any arrow.

    Unlike before, when an elemental arrow appeared out of thin air. This time Emily just released the string in an empty bow, sending an arc-shaped wind sh towards Urs.

    "Not so fast!"

    Facing the arc, Urs stepped heavily on the ground and used her big move.

    "Eruption!!!"

    The ground cracked and the white raging mes erupted, engulfing everything around her.

    "Shit!"

    "Wind Shield!"

    Emily cursed loudly and immediately tried to distance herself while forming an iplete protective cover around her. But she was still a stepte and was surrounded by the erupting white mes.

    Slowly, the mes surrounding Emily subsided, and a scorched figure was revealed with burned marks all over her body. Emily''s condition also wasn''t much better than Urs''s. But she still had enough mana to make a few more moves on Urs.

    As for Urs, the eruption did manage to deflect the wind sh away from her direction. But using such a big move caused her to use almost all of her mana, and now she was in a vulnerable state.

    So if Emily wasn''t defeated in thatst move, then Urs can only be eliminated.

    Slowly, the mes surrounding Emily subsided, and a scorched figure was revealed with burned marks all over her body. Emily''s condition also wasn''t much better than Urs''s. But she still had enough mana to make a few more moves on Urs.

    Gritting her teeth, Emily said, "That move was very powerful, Princess Urs."

    Because it was a VR world, the pain she felt wasn''t much. But she knew that if she took that move in the real world, she would have been unconscious for at least a week or even a month.

    Seeing Emily still standing, Urs was visibly disappointed. She knew that she couldn''t continue anymore. But she still smiled and said. "Your resilience is also very good, Princess Emily. I expected you to be eliminated by that move."

    Emily nodded, not refuting her words, and said, "That would have been the case if I hadn''t reacted in thest second. Fortunately, I did and now you lose, Princess Urs."

    Urs''s mood was very low at that moment, but just when she was about to say something. She saw someone approaching Emily, which surprised her.

    ***

    At the stadium.

    All the viewers were excited watching the battle between Princess Urs and Princess Emily. Although the battle was short, the moves they used were very dazzling.

    Even the failed candidates were amazed by their performance while at the same time depressed about themselves forcking in strength.

    "Princess Urs''s ''Eruption'' move was amazing!"

    "Princess Emily''s Wind sh and Wind Gauntlet were also amazing."

    "Yeah, but not as amazing as Eruption!"

    "Unfortunately, Princess Urs doesn''t have much mana now. Otherwise, she could have won."

    "Waaa, my fairy, Princess Emily looks so miserable."

    An elf looked at the screen sadly. Another elf beside himforted.

    "Don''t worry, it''s just in the VR world. She is fine in reality."

    "I know that, but still."

    While the battle amazed normal people.

    The professionals, such as the professors of the academy, were also discussing among themselves and evaluating them.

    "There were a lot of mistakes."

    "Well, they don''t have much experience inbat, so it''s normal."

    "Hmm, but still, their use of power is too raw and unrefined. Although they have learned good moves, they don''t know how to apply them inbat properly." An old professor expressed his opinion about them. Then, looking at a blue-haired woman who seemed to be in her twenties, he said.

    "But I have to say both of them have good potential."

    "I suggest that they should be taught under Professor Olivia."

    When the woman named Olivia heard this, she asked with a in expression.

    "Do you mean as a ss instructor, Professor Hardy?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Yes, and also direct guidance."

    Hearing this, Olivia didn''t express anything. But a handsome professor with snake-like slit eyes stood up with a cold expression.

    "Direct guidance will only be given if they can get to the Top 20 in the overall rankings. But from their current situation, it doesn''t seem like it''s possible."

    "Yes, yes, Professor Darrin. It was just a suggestion." Professor Hardy shrugged and didn''t intend to continue talking.

    Everyone in the room was familiar with Professor Darrin''s personality. So they just ignored his words and continued looking at the screen as there was a big change in the battle.

    ***

    With her passive fairy healing, Emily''s wounds were slowly being healed, so she somewhat recovered from the burn marks.

    Just when she was ready to give Urs the final blow. She saw her surprised expression, which made her vignt. But before she could react.

    *Bang!*

    The next moment, she heard a gunshot sound that surprised her. She immediately moved sideways and looked behind.

    She was shocked when she saw the disappearing body of a candidate who had a wide hole in his head.

    But what made her horrified was that she didn''t even notice someone approaching and sneaking up on her. He was already very close to her location and in their current state, if not for that gunshot, his sneak attack would have surely seeded.

    "Come out!" She shouted while looking around cautiously at the same time she was preparing to use her Wind Shield.

    Urs was the same, trying to sense someone nearby. It is just that, unlike Emily, she had no protective measures.

    ***

    In the real world. The audience had an idea about who it may be.

    "Is it him?"

    "It should be."

    "It was a gunshot. Who else can it be?"

    ---

    Inside the VIP box. Luimne, Ronald and David were certain that it was Luis.

    ***

    Under Emily and Urs''s cautious eyes. Luis'' figure appeared in front of them as he said casually.

    "Yo, Miss Emily, we meet again."

    "It''s you!" Emily became excited, looking at Luis in front of her. Although before she wanted to beat up this guy but now, she doesn''t have much strength to face him. So she can only hope that he doesn''t attack her now.

    With a fake smile on her face, she asked politely. "What are you doing here, Mr. Luis?"

    Urs, who was looking at Luis curiously, wondering where she had seen him, was shocked when she heard Emily''s sentence. Not only Urs, but everyone familiar with Emily''s personality was shocked.

    No one expected this rotten princess to talk so politely.

    Luis chuckled inwardly, looking at Emily''s expression. ''She must be cursing me in her mind.''

    Looking at her, he said with some disappointment. "Well, I was enjoying a good show. But that guy with Stealth Skill interrupted."

    Hearing histter sentence, she understood why she couldn''t detect that candidate''s presence before. But Luis'' former sentence still concerned her.

    "Um, what does Mr. Luis mean by enjoying a good show? How long have you been here?"

    Luis pointed at the tree not far from them and said honestly, "Since the beginning."

    But Luis'' casual sentence came as an enormous shock for both Emily and Urs.

    Forget that sneaky guy. Now their condition isn''t good, so it''s not surprising that they couldn''t sense him.

    Luis said that he had been here since the beginning. That means they couldn''t sense him even in their best state.

    How can that be?

    But when they turned to look at the tree in unison, they saw an empty can and some empty packets of snacks were thrown near it.

    ''What the hell?!''

    Urs and Emily couldn''t help but fall into self-doubt.

    ***

    Even the audience outside was dumbfounded by this Luis'' revtion.

    "Damn! That guy is so cool!"

    "Is this taking a test? People are fighting and struggling hard to survive even a second longer. He is there taking a stroll and eating snacks!"

    "Yeah, before he was whistling while shooting his opponents."

    "I saw that too. I couldn''t help but get goosebumps remembering it."

    "Same here, brother."

    "I want the screen to show more of his fights!"

    "Yeah!"

    "Me too!"

    ---

    Kevin''s lips twitched. He didn''t know what to say for a while.

    Even the professors were silent while looking at Luis with some curiosity.

    Because they knew that this kind of confidence could onlye because of two reasons. Either confidence in their self-strength or ignorance of the world.

    But looking at Luis'' temperament, they believed it should be the former reason.

    Olivia''s eyes were glued on the screen, observing Luis not knowing what she was thinking.

    ---

    Inside the VIP box.

    Ronald and David were speechless by Luis'' casualness. But they still had smiles on their faces as they watched the screen.

    On the other hand, Lumine had a small frown on her face.

    ''When did Luis meet the princess of the Esperia Kingdom?''

    ''I should have a chat with himter.''

    ***

    ---

    Character Info:

    ---

    Alicia Raven

    Attribute - Ice

    Talents -

    1) Magician (S)

    2) Swordsmanship (S)

    3) Martial Arts (S)

    ---

 Chapter 80 Teasing Emily!

    Chapter 80 Teasing Emily!

    Just when Emily wanted to say something, she saw Luis pointing his gun towards herself, which made her heart panic.

    She was well aware that in her current state, if Luis decided to shoot her, she would have no chance to escape and could only be eliminated.

    So, with a stiff smile on her face, Emily said. "Mr. Luis isn''t very polite, pointing his gun at a vulnerable girl. This isn''t very gentlemanly."

    ''Haha, this rotten girl is talking about politeness.'' Inwardly, Luis wasughing, but on the surface, he showed an expression of surprise.

    "No, no, Miss Emily, you misunderstood me. How can I do something so horrible like that?"

    He immediately rified, as if afraid of causing a misunderstanding.

    ''Bullshit!'' Emily wanted to curse loudly. But still maintaining her stiff smile, she looked at the muzzle of the gun that was pointing towards her face and asked, "Then, what is this?"

    Luis'' expression changed to one full of sadness and pity, as he exined.

    "It''s just that when I saw Miss Emily in such a miserable state. I couldn''t stand by."

    Then, with his voice full of righteousness, he continued.

    "That''s why I decided to help you by sending you back. So you can have a good rest."

    "..."

    Emily''s lips twitched, and she was speechless by Luis'' shamelessness.

    ''Is this the heart of a true gentleman?!''

    ''F#ck off, you bastard!''

    She was very angry in her heart.

    Urs, on the side, thought that these two were natural actors. One greater than the other. Even the audience was watching their conversation with interest.

    "Mr. Luis doesn''t need to trouble himself. I strive to improve myself, thus I need to face these challenges." Emily said in an awe-inspiring tone.

    But seeing her almost broken smile, Luis couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "If that''s what you wish for, Miss Emily." He said, while putting his magic gun down.

    When Emily saw Luis'' expression, she instantly knew that he was teasing her.

    ''Damn bastard, how dare you tease me again and again!''

    ''Is this revenge for the question I asked in the Ice cream shop?''

    ''I thought we were even and let the matter go.''

    ''Just how petty can he be?''

    She conveniently forgot that she nned to take revenge and beat him up in this test before.

    ''See how I clean you up in the future!''

    Her face started to turn red due to anger. But thinking that Luis had just helped her by dealing with that sneaky guy earlier. She decided to temporarily swallow her anger. Not that she could do anything in her current state. By taking deep breaths, she tried to calm herself down.

    Luis could pretty much guess what she was thinking, but he didn''t care much. Instead, he turned to look in a certain direction and shouted.

    "Aren''t youing out yet?"

    Following Luis'' gaze, Emily and Urs also turned their head in unison.

    From the bushes a dozen meters away from them came out a handsome blonde-haired boy holding a spear in his hand.

    "Prince Thomas," Luis said with a in expression.

    "Brother!" Urs called out in surprise.

    ***

    At the stadium.

    "Damn, what a surprise!"

    "Prince Thomas is also here! This is getting interesting!"

    "Is he here to save his sister?!"

    "Will there be another great fight?!"

    "Hell Yeah!!! I can''t wait for it!"

    ...

    [Another encounter between two powerful candidates. Will there be an interesting battle?]

    Kevin was hyping up the audience even more. Looking forward to an exciting battle.

    The professors were also looking at the screen with interest.

    ---

    Only inside a VIP box, the three people sitting there were silent. Their expressions were solemn.

    As their eyes met each other, Lumine nodded. Then, turning on her mana bracelet, she asked.

    "Lily, is there any device around us that can be used to eavesdrop on us?"

    {Just a second. Let me check... There are no such devices around us, Mom.}

    "Okay, good job, Lily."

    {No problem, Mom.}

    After turning off her mana bracelet, Lumine turned back to look at Ronald. Who nodded his head and used his spell to create an invisible sound barrier around them.

    After doing so, he immediately looked at Lumine and asked, "Do you know what Luis is nning?"

    David also looked at her, waiting for her answer.

    For Luis'' previous actions and his conversation with Princess Emily. Although they were confused, they didn''t think much. Even if Princess Urs was also there, they didn''t care much because Luis didn''t interact with her.

    But now, with the arrival of Prince Thomas and Luis'' previous actions, they were certain. That Luis must be nning something.

    Ronald and David have just arrived today, and they didn''t have the chance to meet with Luis before. So they could only expect to get the answer from Lumine, who had been with him all the time.

    Lumine had a frown on her face, as she was thoughtful. But after thinking for a few seconds, she shook her head and replied wryly.

    "I don''t know."

    Since arriving here, she had been touring ces or going around shopping with Alicia. She didn''t have any serious conversations with him. So she had no idea what he was doing.

    Hearing this, both Ronald and David looked at each other helplessly.

    "Well, in that case, we can only hope to get the answer from her."

    Ronald turned on his mana bracelet and asked. "Lily, do you know what Luis is nning to do with the Aiverson siblings?"

    Lily''s projection appeared in front of them as she said. {Dad, Master had said thatter he would exin everything to you himself.}

    ''So he IS going to do something!''

    All of them had ''as-expected'' expressions on their faces.

    "Well, in that case, let''s see what he intends to do."

    David said while gripping his fists as he turned to look at the screen.

    Ronald and Lumine also nodded their heads and looked at the screen simultaneously.

    All of them had the utmost trust in Luis and the same goes for his decisions.

    They knew Luis wouldn''t do something without a n, and he wasn''t a reckless person. So now they could only wait and see.

    How things will turn out!

    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 81 Distorting Facts!

    Chapter 81 Distorting Facts!

    Appearing in front of them with a grin on his face, Thomas ignored Urs and Emily and set his eyes on Luis, who was also looking at him with a poker face.

    "It''s been a while, Luis."

    "Yeah, around a year, I guess," Luis answered thoughtfully.

    Thomas smiled even more and said, "1 year and 2 months, to be exact. You came to the Imperial City on my Mother, the queen''s birthday celebrationst year, remember?"

    "Yeah, I remember." Luis nodded, then said with a soft smile. "It was a joyful evening,"

    When Urs heard their conversation. She also remembered Luis'' identity.

    ''Right, he is that boy with whom Brother Thomas made that betst year.''

    ''From the Suarez family.''

    ''But how does Princess Emily know him?'' Urs wondered.

    When Thomas heard Luis'' words, and saw his reaction. He continued smiling and asked.

    "If I remember correctly this year also, we sent an invitation to the Suarez family for my mother''s birthday celebration two months ago."

    "I had been anticipating your arrival, but neither did you... nor anyone else from the Suarez Family came."

    "I wonder what happened?" Although there was curiosity and slightining in his voice. But the meaning behind his words was rather an inquiry.

    *Sigh*

    Luis sighed. Then showed a longing and disappointed expression on his face and said. "I also wanted to go this year. But because of a situation in my family, I was quite troubled at that time."

    Thomas'' gaze became sharp, but he showed a concerned expression and asked, "Are you fine now? What situation? Tell me I''ll help you?"

    Although it seemed like Thomas was a concerned friend who was curious about his friend''s troubles. In reality, he was just collecting information.

    His father, the king, has some doubts about the Suarez family and their behaviour, but he cannot find anything wrong, and there is no way to question them directly. That''s why he asked Thomas to get the information from Luis Suarez, who will also be joining the academy with them.

    Hence, Thomas first tried getting the information about why the Suarez family ignored the invitation.

    Now hearing what Luis said about some situation in the family, Thomas immediately wondered if it was rted to the abnormal behavior his dad was talking about.

    ***

    Inside the VIP box. Everyone''s expression was solemn.

    Hearing Thomas and Luis'' conversation, they immediately saw through the situation.

    "It seems the king is also restless," David uttered while clenching his fists.

    Ronald nodded and said, "Yeah, but it seems he has no clue from the way he let his second son collect information."

    Lumine rubbed Ivy''s fur and said. "The king should be aware of the deeds of his eldest son, which is why he is careful around us."

    Ronald and David also nodded, hearing Lumine''s words.

    "Rather than that, I''m curious. What situation Luis is talking about?" Lumine wondered thoughtfully.

    "Yeah, I''m also curious, but I have to say his acting skills are amazing," Ronald said with augh, thinking of the changes in Luis'' expression.

    It was as if he really wanted to go to the Queen''s birthday celebration.

    If they didn''t know any better, they might have been fooled, too.

    "Well, let''s see what Luis is going to do first," David said, while looking at the screen.

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    Standing in front of Thomas, Luis showed an aggrieved expression and said, "My parents decided on my engagement without my consent. So I had a fight with them."

    "E-Engagement?" Thomas was stunned for a moment. This isn''t the kind of situation he expected. But seeing Luis'' expression, he knew he wasn''t lying.

    Luis nodded with a sigh and said, "They just arranged for me with a girl whom I never met and don''t even know anything about."

    Neither of them doubted Luis. Because it was a verymon thing amongst the higher ss. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Then what happened?" Thomas asked, while in his mind he was thinking about Rura, wondering if he should ask for an engagement with her and make it official soon.

    Luis'' shoulders were low as if he was very tired and showed a thoughtful expression as if recounting everything, he exhaled deeply and said, "Well, a lot happened after that, my parents were very insistent and they weren''t taking no for an answer."

    "So, what did you do?" This time it was Urs who asked because it was a situation many people face in her social circle and someday in the future she might also have such a day. That''s why she wanted to know what choice Luis made.

    Luis showed an expression as if he was resigning to his fate and said, "In the end, I gave up."

    "My fiancee was madly in love with me. I thought it was not bad to be with such a girl when she loved me so dearly, so in the end, I reluctantly epted the engagement."

    ***

    Inside the VIP box.

    Lumine and Ronald''s faces were stiff, and their lips twitched.

    "Darling, how does it appear that the facts have been distorted?"

    "Honey, I think so too. Did we force him? Howe I do not remember anything like that? I don''t seem to remember that I was so insistent." Ronald asked.

    Lumine also nodded while her lips were twitching.

    "Dear, it seems I am also having delusions. From what I remember, someone always flirted with his fiancee at every chance he gets."

    Ronald also nodded, expressing that he was well aware of that.

    Lumine tapped her mana bracelet and asked, "Lily, did you record that conversation?"

    Lily was confused, but still answered honestly.

    {Yes, I did. Mom.}

    "Good girl." Lumine praised Lily and then said, "I''ll just let Alicia handle him."

    Ronald nodded, showing his approval. But he was still going to talk to himter. It''s not good to nder his parents like that, and more so in public.

    *Bang!*

    Ronald and Lumine turned to look at David, who had just punched the table and broken it into pieces.

    David had veins pop up on his forehead due to anger.

    "He epted my daughter reluctantly?! Who is he kidding?!"

 Chapter 82 One Move!

    Chapter 82 One Move!

    ''This guy is so pretentious.''

    Urs and Emily thought in unison while looking at Luis with squinted eyes. His Performer talent made it easier for Luis to make other people believe in him. Still, Urs and Emily''s female instinct told them something wasn''t quite right.

    But, even though they had doubts in their hearts, they didn''t say anything out loud because they had no proof, nor does it have anything to do with them.

    So they quietly watched Thomas and Luis'' interaction while focusing on recovering their mana.

    Thomas didn''t think much about it and easily believed him. Looking at Luis sympathetically, he said. "It must be a hassle."

    Luis shook his head and said, "Nah, it''s fine. Now that we are getting along, I find her rather cute."

    Thomas nodded and didn''t intend to continue talking regarding this topic. Since he couldn''t find much valuable information now. He can only try itter.

    His eyes shifted to the magic gun in Luis'' hands as he said with slight mockery.

    "Are you still ying around with guns?"

    Luis acted as if he didn''t see the contempt in Thomas'' eyes and admitted, "Well, yeah, it''s pretty convenient." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "So what if it''s convenient? How long can you continue using it?" Thomas shook his head while looking at Luis with contempt. He was very dismissive about Luis'' choice of weapon.

    Luis showed a handsome smile on his face and said, "It doesn''t matter if I use a gun or not. It''s not like Prince Thomas has any chance of winning against me."

    His tone was rather casual and polite. But when it reached Thomas'' ears it sounded like mockery. He was stunned for a moment then a few secondster his face turned red in anger.

    "ARE YOU MOCKING ME?!!"

    Luis was still looking at him calmly and said with a in expression, "I am just stating facts."

    His tone was unhurried and confident without any doubt, as if he was just stating the obvious.

    This sudden change of atmosphere surprised not only Urs and Emily, but even the viewers in the stadium.

    Just a moment ago, those two were talking like old friends and now it''spletely different.

    But the audience didn''t care about any of this. What they wanted was just an intense blood-boiling battle and looking at the angry Thomas, they believed that they might just witness one.

    "Very good, Luis Suarez. I don''t know what your intention is in provoking me. But if that''s your purpose, then you have seeded." Thomas said while gritting his teeth. Then, without hesitation, he rotated his spear and rushed in Luis''s direction.

    ***

    At the stadium.

    The entire venue was full of cheers and shouts when Thomas made his move.

    [As everyone can see, the candidate Thomas has made his move. Now let''s see if candidate Luis can find a way to deal with candidate Thomas'' spearmanship.]

    Kevin also didn''t forget to hype up at the right time, making the audience even more excited.

    "Hell Yeah!"

    "Prince Thomas! You can do it!"

    "Damn! Will that Cool guy be fine?!"

    "That''s what he gets for provoking Prince Thomas!"

    "What...?! But wasn''t he quite polite!"

    "Polite my ass! He just made Prince Thomas angry!"

    "You can do it, Cool guy!!!"

    "He has a name, you know!"

    "Who cares?! He is a Cool guy for me! After I go home, I am going to search for his social ount and follow him."

    "Heh, I''ve already done it!"

    ---

    The professors were also discussing amongst themselves.

    "Candidate Thomas'' spearmanship talent is quite good." A professor said.

    Professor Hardy nodded and said, "Yeah and from what we have observed until now, candidate Luis'' gunmanship talent is also quite good."

    Professor Darrin sat in the corner looking at the screen with his cold snake-like eyes and said, "No matter how good his talent is in gunmanship. If it''s just that, he will certainly lose."

    ***

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    Thomas saw Luis shooting mana bullets towards himself, and he couldn''t help but ridicule him in his mind.

    ''Although your aim is good, do you think this kind of attack can do anything against me?''

    With his S-grade talent in Spearmanship. Thomas manoeuvred his spear with precise control and techniques, deflecting the mana bullets that were aimed at his vitals.

    ''Heh, is this it?'' Thomas scoffed at Luis in his mind, while closing the distance between them.

    His n was pretty simple. As long as he gets close to Luis. He can defeat him in one fell swoop. After all, with his speed, he was certain that Luis wouldn''t be his opponent.

    But Luis'' next move surprised him.

    He saw Luis calmly put away his Magic Gun inside his mana bracelet. Then yawned slightly.

    ''What the...?!''

    Unfortunately for Thomas, he had no time to be surprised. Because after that, what he saw was just after images. Luis'' speed was so fast that he couldn''t even catch the proper movements.

    Before Thomas could react, not even a moment had passed and Luis was already standing half a meter away from him, holding something golden and shiny above his palm. His two gray eyes were looking at him without any emotion. As if he was dealing with just an insignificant matter.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    Luis uttered these two words calmly and threw the Thunder Javilin with a wave of his hand.

    *Boom!*

    *Zzt!*

    Thomas felt a huge impact on his chest, and then his entire body went numb, as if paralyzed and he couldn''t feel anything. He did hear some loud crashing and explosion. But then his vision turned ck.

    When Thunder Javelin struck Thomas'' chest, it sent his body flying together with the attack crashing on several trees and thennding 50 meters away from them, forming a huge crater on the ground along with some destroyed trees.

    *Crash!*

    *Kaboom!*

    Thomas'' body didn''t even get the chance to have a disappearing effect as it was already turned to smithereens or rather dust after the electrocution from the leftover thunder.

    ...

    Luis looked at his kill count and saw that it had increased by one, then sighed.

    "I had told you that you are not a match against me."

    "Why don''t you believe it?"

    *Sigh*

 Chapter 83 Accident?!

    Chapter 83 ident?!

    ''When I told so many lies before, he believed me...''

    ''But, when I am finally being honest, people don''t believe me...''

    *Sigh*

    ''There is no ce for honest people in this cruel world full of lies and deception.''

    Shaking his head out of unnecessary thoughts. Luis turned back to look at the stunned Emily and Urs.

    Their entire fight from start to finish didn''t take longer than 5 seconds.

    ---

    When Emily came back to her senses, she looked at Luis in shock.

    "L-Lightning..?!"

    She didn''t expect Luis to have such a rare element.

    ''More importantly! That move...!''

    Remembering the powerful move that Luis has performed just now. Emily couldn''t help but feel d that she wasn''t rash enough to attack Luis before.

    Urs, on the other hand, was also stunned by the power of the move Luis used. But when she returned to her senses, she immediately called out in worry.

    "B-Brother!"

    Luis looked at the worried Urs and said with a calm voice.

    "Don''t worry, your brother is fine."

    "Eh...?! Really!!?"

    Urs was surprised and then in disbelief. She didn''t expect that her brother would be able to survive such an attack.

    Just then, Luis'' next words poured cold water on her excitement.

    "Yeah, he is eliminated, so he should be safe and sound in the real world."

    Urs''s lips twitched, thinking that this situation was even worse now. The Prince of the Aiverson Empire was not even in the top 500.

    ''Father is going to be very angry. I hope that Brother Thomas will be fine.''

    Luis looked at the worried Urs and said with aforting smile. "You don''t have to worry, Princess Urs."

    "Prince Thomas is probably chilling out there now that the test has ended early for him."

    Hearing this, Urs became even more depressed.

    Emily, who was watching from the side, felt that maybe Luis'' mouth was even more dangerous than hers.

    ''I am only a little rude to people.''

    ''But this guy... He can crush people''s hearts even while talking politely.''

    ***

    At the stadium. The entire venue fell into silence and it happened again because of the actions of the same person twice.

    If before, Luis'' casualness gave people goosebumps. Then this time, it was shock and disbelief.

    No one could have imagined that the battle between the two powerful candidates of this year would end with a single move.

    "Can anyone exin... what happened?" a failed candidate asked in disbelief, while gulping dryly.

    "He just... attacked... and then... it was over." Another boy beside him answered. But he himself was in shock. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "..."

    ---

    The professors were all staring at the screen with sharp eyes.

    "Precise and no unnecessary movements."

    "Efficient with proper use and control over mana."

    "Possessing a rare Lightning Element."

    Professor Hardy nodded his head with a satisfied expression and said, "Another student with great potential."

    Professor Darrin''s cold eyes were staring at the screen as he said in his usual cold voice, "He seems to be a [Novice]."

    But as soon as his voice fell, all the professors'' eyes brightened as they gazed at the screen intently.

    Olivia on the side was also looking at the screen with interest.

    ---

    Inside the VIP box.

    Lumine and Ronald weren''t surprised that Luis could win so easily. Rather, they would be surprised if he couldn''t win. After all, with this same attack, Luis had killed a D-rank monster, so what''s a mere F Rank with five stars?

    David, who saw Luis fighting for the first time, was a little surprised. But since he was still a little angry at Luis. He just snorted in silence.

    As for why, Luis attacked Thomas and such. They knew that he would exin itter. Or rather, even if he didn''t, it was good that he beat him.

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    Seeing Emily and Urs, who have already recovered somewhat. Luis wondered if it was a good idea to eliminate them. But then he instantly rejected that idea.

    Thomas was a little annoying, and it was fine to anger the Aiverson Royal family since they were already enemies, though they still hadn''t torn their faces.

    But angering the Esperia kingdom just for a kill count was not a good idea.

    Also, he still has a lot of use for Emily. So it was better to befriend her. Luis was certain that with his ''inadvertent'' actions, Emily would certainly be affected and it would make it easier for him to approach her ''unintentionally'' in the future.

    As for Urs, he didn''t intend to eliminate her now or it will look like he is intentionally targeting the Aiverson Royal family.

    "Okay, then Miss Emily and Princess Urs, see you guyster. I''ll go find other candidates."

    When Luis said that, Emily sighed in relief. While Urs was a little surprised, so she subconsciously asked.

    "You aren''t going to eliminate me?"

    Luis shook his head and said, "Well, you guys are powerful candidates, so it''s not a good idea to be eliminated early, right?"

    When they heard this, both Emily and Urs''s lips twitched in unison.

    With obvious curiosity, Emily asked, "Then what about Prince Thomas?"

    When Urs heard Emily''s question, she also looked at Luis, waiting for his answer.

    Luis paused, then showed a look of regret and disappointment. With a heavy sigh, he stated.

    "Well, it was just an ident."

    "ident?" Both Urs and Emily frowned in unison. Because both of them have seen how Thomas was eliminated by Luis'' attack. How can it be an ident?

    Luis nodded his head heavily and said. "Well, I identally used a little more power in that move."

    "Who knew he would be eliminated so easily? I still wanted to have an intense friendly battle with the Prince."

    ***

    Character Info:-

    ***

    [Name] : Luis Suarez

    [Race] : Human

    [Age] : 16

    [Rank] : Novice rank ������ (E)

    [Affinity] : Lightning (Hidden : Space)

    [Talent Awakened] : Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent] : Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique] : None

    [Bloodline] : Unawakened

    [Titles] : Challenger

    [Skills] : Perception, Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D)

    [Techniques] : Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Elementary ������)

    [Mana Core] : Rank D+

    ***

    Diana Tres - Female Lead (Beast Kin)

    Attribute - Water

    Bloodline - Animalization mode

    Talents -

    1) Jungle Karate (S)

    2) Physical Strengthening (A)

    3) Spirit Arts (B)

    ***

 Chapter 84 Confession Failed?!

    Chapter 84 Confession Failed?!

    Emily knew that if she continued to stay here any longer, she might lose control of her emotions and attack this infuriating guy. That''s why with a fake smile on her face she said while escaping, "It was nice meeting you, Mr. Luis. See you at the academy!"

    As for Urs, her mood dimmed even more, but she thought that at least she should not be eliminated before the top 20 to not further shame the Aiverson Royal Family. So, she also left while casting onest nce at Luis.

    After the two of them left, Luis also didn''t intend to stay there any longer. His purpose here has been achieved and now he can focus onpleting his 200 kills.

    ***

    [Rodeo and Julia Part-1]

    Hiding inside a cave, two people were talking in whispers.

    "Rodeo, is it alright to hide here?" The girl asked a little timidly.

    Just now she heard a terrible sound of an explosion not far from them, which made her terrified.

    Rodeo was also a little worried. He also heard the sound of an explosion, along with some thundering sounds.

    But looking at the timid girl beside him who was depending on him. All his previous fears disappeared, and now all that was left was infinite courage.

    sping her small hands tightly, he said, "Don''t worry, Julia. As long as I am here, I won''t let anything happen to you."

    "Rodeo...?!" Julia, who was already in tears, didn''t know why, she felt that Rodeo was very handsome at this moment.

    Feeling the warmth in her hands, she couldn''t help but blush slightly. ''What is going on with me? What is this feeling that I have towards Rodeo?''

    Confusion appeared in her mind, and Julia''s heart was in a mess now.

    When Rodeo saw the rosy Julia in front of him. He felt like the world was very beautiful.

    ''No, maybe it''s her who makes my world beautiful.''

    Rodeo has been aware of his feelings towards Julia for a while now. But because of his inferiority, he never managed to work out the courage to confess to her.

    He always believed that Julia deserved someone better than him. But just now, when he looked at her, who was timid and depending on him, his heart told him that he was wrong. He could never let any other guy have this cute girl.

    Maybe it was an impulse or the sudden confidence that appeared inside him unknowingly. Rodeo decided to confess his feelings at that moment.

    "Julia...!" Rodeo called out her name while looking into her eyes deeply.

    Julia was a little surprised when Rodeo called her name in his deep voice, but when her eyes met with his eyes full of confidence, she felt the masculine aura around him and she couldn''t help but feel shy.

    Rodeo was mesmerized by her shy look. But shaking his head, he looked at her seriously and said.

    "Julia, there''s something that I have wanted to tell you for a long time now."

    Julia didn''t know why, but when she heard Rodeo''s words, her heart started beating faster and an unknown kind of anticipation appeared in her heart.

    Rodeo''s heart was also beating faster, and it took all his courage for him to utter the words that he was about to say next.

    "Actually, I have fallen in love-"

    *Bang!*

    *Thud!*

    In front of Julia''s eyes, a hole appeared in Rodeo''s head and his limp body fell to the ground, disappearing.

    "Kyaaaaa-"

    *Bang!*

    *Thud!*

    Her scream was also abruptly cut off by the sound of another gunshot, and the next moment she was eliminated along with her friend.

    Hence, the confession was iplete, and the romantic story between Rodeo and Julia came to an abrupt end before it could even begin.

    Will this be the end for Rodeo and Julia, before the flower of their love could even bloom?

    Stay tuned for the [Rodeo and Julia Part-2].

    ***

    A few meters away from them, Luis put his gun down and said with a frown on his face.

    "These couples are so annoying! Flirting around during the test! How can they be so shameless?!"

    *** n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    At the stadium. Due to the high demand of the audience, the cameras were still showing Luis'' performance on the main screen.

    When the audience heard Luis'' words. They couldn''t help but be speechless.

    The single viewers cheered for him.

    "Good Job! Kill, those couples!"

    "Let them be damned!"

    "Burn them!"

    "Let them have a taste of your thunder!!!"

    ...

    While normal people felt pity for Rodeo.

    "Poor guy..."

    "He didn''t even get the chance to be rejected?!"

    "He could have seeded, too."

    "Well, who knows?"

    "What a pity!"

    "s!"

    ...

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    Luis started to take action and actively looked around for candidates to hunt.

    Moving across the terrain like a predator hunting for his prey. With his keen observation and senses due to Perception Skill, Luis could easily locate the candidates in hiding.

    For the candidates who were a little farther from him and were a little weak, Luis directly used his mana bullets and killed them easily.

    As for the few who were a little stronger, Luis used his Thunder Spells on them.

    Looking at the candidate, who was aware of Luis'' position and was taking a cover at a tree. Luis immediately used his spell.

    "Thunder Snake!"

    *Sssh~*

    A snake made of lightning came out from Luis'' hands and glided towards the target.

    Before the candidate could react, the thunder snake entwined his right leg.

    "Uwaaah!" The candidate tried to break free from it, but no matter how much he shook his leg, he couldn''t.

    Slowly, he felt that moving his body became a little difficult. The electric currents from the snake had made his body paralysed.

    Afterpletely paralysing the target, the snake expanded a little and entwined the whole body of the target. Then the Thunder Snake was discharged! The Thunder Snake covered the target''s entire body, then bombarded it with all the thunder it was made of.

    *Crackle!*

    *Boom!*

    Zzzzt!

    "Aaahhh!"

    By the time the smoke disappeared, only a roasted body was left.

    [Kills - 179]

    Looking at his kill count, that was not much far from his target of 200 kills. Luis kept searching around for targets with his Perception, intending to hunt.

 Chapter 85 Alex Stain!

    Chapter 85 Alex Stain!

    Time passed by minute after minute and by the time Luispleted his target of 200 kills, it was already 1 hour and 15 minutes since the start of the test.

    That''s when another announcement sounded like the voice of heaven.

    [Now only the Top 50 students are left, who will bepeting for the A and S grade evaluation. Remember that after the next 15 minutes, the monsters will get stronger. So try to avoid fighting monsters and defeat the other candidates as fast as possible.]

    [Also! A surprise for the candidates! The ind will start sinking after 15 minutes and it will bepletely sunk by the end of the test. So try to move towards the central area of the ind. Good luck!]

    The candidates who were in the coastal area of the ind couldn''t help but curse.

    "Fu@k! I don''t want this surprise!"

    ***

    On a rocky terrain

    A handsome white-haired boy was fighting a Rock golem that was 3 meters in size.

    Holding a sword in his hand, the white-haired boy dashed at the rock golem while constantly dodging his attacks, trying to find the Rock golem''s core.

    The Rock golem moved his huge and heavy hands in the air, then mmed it down on the ground.

    *Boom!*

    *Crack!*

    When the Rock golem''s fistnded on the ground. The surrounding rocks were shattered, and the ground cracked.

    *Gulp*

    The white-haired boy gulped. He was certain that if that attacknded on him. He would be a human meat paste.

    It''s not that the white-haired boy was weak. He was a three-star [Beginner]. But the rock golem was stronger.

    The Rock golem that he encountered was different from an ordinary Rock golem which was just 2 meters in size. This one was a rare monster whose power is equivalent to a top E-rank and if just its defence is taken into ount, then it can even bepared with some low D-rank monsters.

    Fortunately, this monster has a core which is its weakness. Exploiting that, the white-haired boy has a certain confidence in defeating it.

    It''s just that until now he hasn''t found the core yet.

    ''Just where is it?!''

    The white-haired boy started to get impatient.

    Just then, the Rock golem moved his rocky hands horizontally.

    While dodging, the white-haired boy jumped high up in the air. The next second, he was surprised to find that the Rock golem''s core was at the top of his head.

    Without wasting any time, he held his sword with both hands, ready to plunge it downwards.

    Before the Rock Golem could react, the white-haired boynded a heavy blow on the golem''s core, shattering itpletely. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    *Crack!*

    As soon as the core shattered, the golem''s rocky body also started crumbling into rocks.

    *Crumble!*

    *Scatter!*

    But as soon as the white-haired boynded on the ground. His brows furrowed as he sensed something, and his crimson eyes turned sharply in a certain direction.

    Looking at the enormous boulder at a distance. He called out loudly. "Who''s there?!"

    But he didn''t get any reply. Instead, the sound of footsteps sounded from behind, followed by a yful feminine voice.

    "You got it wrong!"

    The white-haired turned around abruptly and looked at the person in front of him vigntly.

    Gripping his sword tightly, he was ready to make his move. But then he heard the stranger say.

    "We met again, Alex..." The girl''s voice was full of emotions which she was trying to hide but failed.

    When Alex suddenly heard the stranger call out his name. He felt a little inexplicable and stopped. Alex observed the stranger girl in front of him. She had beautiful green hair that was tied in a braid, and her optimum figure that could be described as perfect. Her deep emerald eyes were looking at him emotionally and affectionately.

    In simple words, this girl was very beautiful. Which was also the reason Alex was confused. Because he couldn''t remember where they had met. A girl this beautiful should leave some impression on him, right?

    But, since he couldn''t recall. He decided to ask her directly.

    "Um, have we met each other before?" Alex asked politely.

    The girl''s eyes couldn''t help but tremble at this moment when Alex asked this question.

    ''So you also don''t remember... Huh...''

    Her heart was very bitter at this moment.

    ''Of course, that should be the case... Why would you...? We shouldn''t have met each other at this time.''

    She knew that, but she still hoped for him to remember.

    ''Only I am the one who remembers everything, Alex... The time we spent together, our memories, the time you helped me again and again, even when I neglected you.''

    ''The battles we fought, and you saved everyone again and again.''

    ''But in the end...''

    The girl''s eyes became moist as she started recalling her memories with Alex.

    Seeing the beautiful girl standing there without answering his question and showing a variety of expressions on her face. Alex couldn''t help but be confused and feel a little strange in his heart.

    ''Did I do something to this girl? Howe I don''t remember?''

    Alex couldn''t help but worry. ''Don''t tell me those bastards have sealed a part of my memory?''

    As soon as that idea appeared in his mind, he immediately shook his head.

    ''No way! That shouldn''t be! I remember almost everything. Why would they seal my memory regarding only one person?''

    In the end, he couldn''t think of an answer, no matter how much he tried.

    "Um, excuse me? Miss?"

    When Alex called her again, the girl came to her senses. She shook her head to stop thinking about those things.

    "Since you don''t remember me. It''s fine, I''ll introduce myself again. I am Sera Dennis from Aiverson Empire."

    Alex felt a little strange because of Sera''s words. But since a beautiful girl was being so friendly. He will also be a gentleman.

    "Nice to meet you, Miss Sera. I am Alex Stain. You can call me Alex." Alex said with a handsome smile.

    Seeing Alex not telling his origin. Sera didn''t say anything and just chuckled inwardly. Thinking, ''Alex is so cute. I know more about you than what you know about yourself.''

    Then, with a firm expression on her face, she decided.

    ''It''s fine if you don''t remember me, Alex. I am going to make new memories with you and this time there won''t be any sad ones.''

 Chapter 86 Luis vS Alex!

    Chapter 86 Luis vS Alex!

    At the stadium.

    [After several intense battles. Now finally, only the top 20 students are left. That means they will all get the S grade privileges while at the academy.]

    When Kevin announced this, the candidates who were eliminated early felt jealous.

    Some of them were unconvinced because they believed that they were strong and had the possibility of reaching an A grade evaluation at the very least, but ended up meeting the powerful enemies and being eliminated early. They believed that they were just unlucky.

    But nothing can be done about it. This world values the survival of the fittest. Whether you survive with brawns or brains, do trickery or y fair, betray or make bonds, as long as you can survive for another day, you can keep getting stronger.

    Of course, it doesn''t apply to everyone. Since some people are born with amazing talents and they are destined to be the ones to dominate.

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    [Now that thest 30 minutes of the test are left. The monsters are going to get stronger and the ind will start sinking. Everyone! Please do your best!]

    Kevin''s announcement sounded inside the VR world.

    Luis, who was walking through the grassy field, nced at the kill count and nodded in satisfaction.

    ''Well, now I can get the hidden bonus.''

    [Kills - 213]

    Suddenly, he stopped in his tracks as he sensed something.

    He turned his head to look sideways, and he saw the silhouette of someone running in his direction.

    ''No, not me. It should be the central area.'' n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Luis took out his magic gun, ready to shoot at the candidate.

    But when the figure got clearer in his perception range, Luis smiled faintly.

    ''That Iconic white hair... It can only be him.''

    ''The first protagonist of the Holy Dragon Knight, Alex Stain!''

    "Well, whatever."

    Luis mumbled and pulled the trigger.

    *Bang!*

    ---

    After separating from Sera, Alex fought some candidates on his way towards the central area of the ind.

    But in his mind, he was still thinking about his strange encounter with Sera.

    ''I just don''t understand that girl. Does she like me or something?''

    ''Nah, it can''t be. I don''t even know her. But she does seem to know about me.''

    ''Ahh, it''s so confusing...!!!''

    ''Well, she sure is beautiful, though.''

    Alex nodded thoughtfully. While many strange imaginations ran wild in his mind.

    But all his fantasies were cut short as he sensed danger and instinctively swung his sword.

    *Ting!*

    He felt something heavy collide with his sword.

    ''A bullet...?!''

    ''No! It was an attack made of mana!''

    Alex sharply turned toward the source of the attack.

    Although he couldn''t see clearly from such a far distance, he could still see a silhouette of someone standing there.

    ''It''s him...''

    Alex''s feet paced, and he made his way towards him.

    Luis, on the other hand, wasn''t much surprised that Alex had managed to dodge that attack. If the protagonist can be so easily defeated like some small fries, then he will not be called a protagonist, right?

    ''Well, he is still weak, though.'' Luis was sure that the current Alex wasn''t his opponent, and he had many ways to deal with him. But Luis still wanted to try his abilities.

    So he patiently waited without any intention of hiding.

    It didn''t take long for Alex to appear 20 meters away from Luis, looking at him seriously.

    Alex''s instincts told him that the person standing in front of him was very strong. So, he was very careful.

    "You are the one who attacked me, right?" Although Alex was certain, he still asked.

    Luis nodded, admitting it, and said, "Well, we are enemies, after all."

    Alex nodded seriously, thinking that Luis meant as in this test and took a sword stance. "In that case, let''s fight."

    His instincts told him that the person in front of him was strong. But so what, if he didn''t even dare to face such challenges, then how could he be stronger? Strong enough to save his loved ones and find that person.

    Just thinking about it, Alex''s fighting intent rose. Then he pointed his sword towards Luis.

    Seeing Alex''s change in temperament, Luis smiled faintly and then shot.

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    Alex''s eyes were focused on the gun, trying to see the trajectory of the bullets. As he concentrated on it, his body moved instinctively and he parried all the bullets with his sword.

    "You are very strong." Alexplimented.

    "I know," Luis said as he changed from using mana bullets to thunder bullets.

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Sizzle!*

    Facing these golden bullets, Alex''s expression changed. As soon as he tried to deflect it, his hands trembled at the impact.

    ''What power!''

    Alex knew that his normal swordsmanship wouldn''t work here, so he decided to use his magic swordsmanship.

    "Holy me!"

    He shouted and the next moment, golden mes erupted from his body and then enveloped his sword.

    But the sword didn''t melt because of the intense mes. Instead, the Holy mes surrounded his sword as if coating it.

    This time, he managed to parry the thunder bullets easily without much effort.

    ''Hah, I can do this!''

    A certain confidence started building up inside Alex as he tried to close their distance while also dealing with the thunder bullet shots.

    Luis still observed Alex''s movements and his fighting style calmly while he continued shooting.

    ''Hmm, he is still using basic swordsmanship. Well, it is normal considering he hasn''t yet learned his special sword arts.''

    ''Sigh, the current Alex is just too weak.''

    ''Well, that should be the case, considering it is just the beginning of the game. But as soon as he finishes some quests and challenges, his strength will have a rapid development and once he awakens his bloodline, it will be even more so.''

    Just when Alex managed to get a little closer to him. Luis suddenly changed his fighting style. From a Magic Gun to a Lightning Spear.

    *Swish!*

    *ng!*

    Surprised, Alex couldn''t react fast enough and took a heavy blow. Even if he tried to resist using his sword covered in holy mes. The power behind Luis'' blow was that of a five-star Novice, which he who is just a three-star Beginner, can''t deal with no matter how talented he is.

    "Ugh!"

    Landing a few meters away. Alex tried to stabilize himself. But Luis didn''t give him a chance and immediately used his next move.

    "Thunder Snake!"

    The Thunder Snake glided towards Alex and immediately entwined his hand.

    "What?!"

    Just when Alex was about to use his sword to chop his left hand. The Thunder Snake discharged.

    *Kaboom!*

    After the smoke cleared. Alex was left there standing with an ugly face as his crimson eyes stared deeply at Luis. His left hand waspletely blown up and half of his body was charred.

    Gritting his teeth, he looked fiercely at Luis. But then his eyes widened in shock. Because Luis was already prepared for another attack.

    A golden Javelin made of thunder floated above his palm. Luis'' eyes calmly looked at Alex as he waved his hand gently.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    The next moment, the Thunder Javelin shot directly towards Alex.

    ''Shit!''

    Feeling the power behind that attack, Alex cursed inwardly. He immediately waved his sword, shing it forward, trying to deflect that attack somehow.

    Unfortunately, it didn''t work.

    *Ting!*

    As the Thunder Javelin collided with his sword. Alex felt a tremendous force pushing him back and the next moment, the impact of that attack broke his hand.

    The Thunder Javelin, after pushing Alex''s sword away, directlynded on his chest, making a gaping hole and eliminating him.

    Looking at his kill count, that has been increased by one. Luis sighed and then mumbled.

    "Even until the end, he hid his strength."

    "Whatever, it doesn''t matter to me."

    Shaking his head, he gave ast look at the disappearing body. Then left towards the central area of the ind. While thinking.

    ''Alicia should be waiting for me.''

    ''I just don''t know if my battle with her can help me break through to D Rank.''

    Just thinking back on Alicia''s deration before the exam, Luis couldn''t help but get excited.

    It wasn''t just her who wanted a battle with him. He, too, wanted to have an intense fight with her.

    Luis knew that the only opponent for him in this exam would be Alicia. All other candidates are small fries for him.

    Of course, the monsters aren''t counted.

    ***

    On the other hand, Alicia, who had just defeated a few candidates while still looking for Luis, met a familiar green-haired girl staring at her.

    "Sera?"

    Sera''s eyes looking at Alicia were full of various emotions. But most of all was sadness and guilt.

    Her heart was heavy remembering what happened to Alicia.

    Just remembering that memory and the feel of her cold, dead body, Sera''s lips trembled.

    ''I''m sorry, Alicia, but this time I won''t let you die because of your meaningless revenge.''

    ***

    Character Info:

 Chapter 87 Alicia vS Sera I

    Chapter 87 Alicia vS Sera I

    Masking her emotions, Sera tried to form a gentle smile on her face and greeted Alicia a little unnaturally. "Umm, it''s good to see you again, after such a long time, Alicia."

    Sera felt a little awkward not only because of her memories of the future but also because they were not considered close at all.

    Although they were acquainted not so much as friends but as childhood ymates. After Alicia''s mother''s death, even that rtionship was cut off.

    Alicia had doubts regarding everyone and was afraid of being betrayed by someone close to her, so she became cold and preferred to distance herself from everyone.

    Hence, it should be said that they haven''t talked in years.

    ''Her expression is as cold as ever, well it''s normal. After all, she is obsessed with her revenge.''

    Sera didn''t think that Alicia would reply to her greeting considering she was still very wary of people as she didn''t know yet who her enemy was.

    But much to Sera''s surprise, Alicia replied with a nod.

    "Hello Sera, it''s been a long time."

    Although Alicia''s expression was still as cold as ever. But it didn''t seem as distant as before. She even seemed quite rxed. Completely different from the one in her memory.

    ''Wait a minute, what''s going on with Alicia? If it was normal, shouldn''t she just ignore me or look at me with a frown? What''s happening here?''

    Sera''s mind was in a mess, not understanding the situation. Suddenly, a thought appeared in her mind.

    ''No, maybe at this time Alicia''s obsession with her revenge wasn''t as much as in the future.''

    ''It''s normal that I didn''t know about it. After all, I hadn''t talked with her until the second semester of the first year.''

    ''If that is the case, then maybe I can change her mind.''

    ''I can convince her to give up on that stupid revenge of hers.'' n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Thinking of this, with a smile on her face, Sera said. "How are you doing, Alicia? You have be even more gorgeous."

    Hearing Sera''s praise, Alicia''s cold expression eased a bit. Then, she also replied politely. "Thank you. You have be beautiful too, Sera."

    Sera was a little exasperated as she screamed inwardly.

    ''What the heck?! Is this girl really Alicia?!''

    ''Who is this polite girl?! Where is that stinky-faced bitch?!''

    Seeing Sera, whose expression was changing again and again. Alicia felt a little strange in her heart.

    ''What''s up with her? Is there something wrong with her head?''

    Before Alicia was surprised when Sera suddenly talked with her so familiarly. If it was before, she would have ignored her. But when she remembered Luis'' words that he wanted her to try making friends in the academy, she decided to talk with Sera, whom she had known before.

    ''Well, I am fine without friends. I have Lily and Ivy with me to spend time with. But if he wants me to make friends, then I guess I can try.''

    Now that Alicia already knew who their enemy was, she wasn''t as wary of people as before. But she still didn''t like socializing if it''s not necessary.

    ''Still, though, Sera became a little weird from what I remember.''

    Oblivious to Alicia''s thoughts that she has been regarded as a strange person, Sera calmed herself down then showed a beautiful smile and said, "Have I? Thanks, Alicia. I hope we can have a good time while at the academy."

    Alicia nodded nomittally and said, "Before that, we should focus on this test first."

    "Uh, yeah, you are right." Sera was still a little unustomed to this Alicia who was easy to talk to. It was like she was back to her personality before her mother''s death.

    "Then let''s fight," Alicia said while unsheathing her sword.

    Sera''s expression also became serious as she gripped the staff in her hand tightly. She knew that at the time of the entrance examination of the academy, Alicia was the strongest candidate. Even the current Alex was not a match against her and only managed to get the 3rd position in the ranking.

    ''Alicia''s current strength should be the five stars of Rookie.'' But even if Alicia is 3 stars stronger than her, Sera was very confident in herself that she could defeat her.

    ''Although I still haven''t gotten ustomed to my regression in strength and only have a golem as my summon. With mybat experiences over the years, defeating her is not a problem.''

    ''This time I''m going to eliminate both Alicia and Thomas so that my Alex can Rank First and be the top student.''

    Just thinking about it, Sera couldn''t help but get excited.

    She immediately raised her staff and chanted.

    "Earth Bind!"

    The ground below Alicia rose and tried to clutch her feet. But she reacted in time, by jumping high in the air with a backflip and simultaneouslyunching an attack.

    "Ice Shards!"

    Woosh!

    Facing the Ice shards and ncing at Alicia, who was still in mid-air, Sera smirked and then instantly chanted her spell.

    "Mud Shield!"

    A shield made of mud appeared in front of her and blocked the Ice shards. Then, calcting the position where Alicia wouldnd, Sera chanted another spell.

    "Quagmire!"

    The ground where Alicia was about tond instantly became a swamp.

    But even after she saw this sudden change, Alicia was unfazed. Just when her feet were about tond on the swamp. Alicia used her magic.

    "Ice field!"

    Then not only the swamp but even the surface of all the ground in their 30-meter radius froze and became an Ice field.

    The trees, the rocks, the grass, and everything were all covered in a solidyer of ice.

    Now the terrain was much to Alicia''s advantage, and Sera was at a disadvantage.

    ''No way, she can use such a move now?! Just how much mana does she have?!''

    Sera felt iprehensible.

    Of course, Sera doesn''t know that the current Alicia is far stronger than she thinks.

    Because, she differs from Alicia in her memory, this time, Alicia had Luis topete with so she worked even harder to be stronger, she got trained by Lumine, an S-rank swords-woman, and she also got a lot of help from Luis, such as Akasha Ne at the time of breakthroughs and many more.

    So the current Alicia is much stronger than the Alicia in her memory.

    It''s no wonder that Sera feels surprised.

 Chapter 88 Alicia vS Sera II

    Chapter 88 Alicia vS Sera II

    Standing on the icy field, Sera knew that she was in big trouble. But Alicia didn''t give her time to think further.

    "Ice des!"

    When Alicia used her magic, sharp des made of ice came out of the icy field and plunged towards Sera.

    "Mud shield!"

    While trying to dodge the attacks, Sera raised a mud shield to block those ice des. But the Ice des attacked her from all directions and she knew if this continued she would not be able to continue.

    ''Shit, if only I had my summons with me!''

    Thinking of the only summons, the golem she had with her. She knew that winning this fight was very difficult, given the current situation.

    ''I underestimated Alicia a little too much. Even if I have my memories and experiences. I don''t have my past strength.''

    Barely avoiding the ice des, Sera tried to cast her spell to get out of the range of the ice field.

    "Oh, no you don''t!"

    Alicia instantly saw through her thoughts and used another magic.

    "Ice cage!"

    Sera, who was ready to escape from the ice field, found herself surrounded by icy thorns that grew and twisted together, forming the shape of an icy birdcage.

    ''Crap!'' she cursed inwardly.

    "Earth Bullets!"

    Sera used her spell to break the icy cage, but her attack only left a crack on it.

    ''I need 3 more attacks to break it.''

    Of course, Alicia wasn''t going to give her enough time for that.

    As soon as Sera was trapped in the Ice cage. Alicia dashed towards her while the ice des kept attacking Sera even inside the Ice cage. Now, because of the narrow space, Sera was having even more difficulty dodging them and was interrupted every time she tried casting her spells to attack the ice cage. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Sera started getting more and more impatient. Because she knew that the longer she was trapped here, the more difficult it would be for her to escape.

    And that is what happened. Alicia was not giving her any opportunity.

    Suddenly, the cage twisted as if trying to crush Sera inside.

    "Summon Golem!"

    In desperation, Sera called out her summon. Which took all the attacks in her stead.

    The ice cage broke, but the golem was also crushed with it, though it managed to protect Sera from serious harm.

    ''Now, I can escape!''

    Sera immediately tried casting her movement spell to escape from the ice field. Unfortunately, she was a step toote. Alicia was already close to her. Using her sword coated with mana, Alicia showed a beautiful sword sh while moving gracefully directly beheading Sera and eliminating her.

    Sera''s head fell on the icy ground and rolled, still showing a shocked expression. Then a momentter, her detached head started disappearing along with her body.

    Losing the battle, Sera failed to help her loved one reach the top. Though, even if she had won this battle, she could not have achieved her purpose. Since someone already eliminated him even before her.

    Now that the fight ended, Alicia removed her magic and started taking deep breaths, recovering her mana.

    ''I used a little too much mana on her.''

    ''I have to recover fast so that I can fight Luis at my full strengthter.''

    Thinking so, Alicia disappeared into the woods finding a ce to rest.

    ***

    Inside the stadium. The venue was full of loud cheers and apuse.

    The reason for that is just now they had disyed the battle between Alicia and Sera on the main screen.

    "Damn, that was so intense!"

    "Those two are so beautiful!"

    "The green-haired girl looks like a doll!"

    "Yeah, but I like the ck-haired one!"

    "Her moves were awesome!"

    "She even froze the trees and grass!"

    Now the audience had many fans of Alicia and Sera.

    Even the professors were enthusiastically discussing the battle.

    "Both of them had good execution timing. But the candidate Sera fell into a downfall at the start and after that candidate Alicia didn''t give her any opportunity."

    "Candidate Alicia won because she had a higher mana reserve than Candidate Sera."

    "Hmm, she is also a Novice Rank." Professor Olivia mumbled while thinking about the other Novice rank in this test and his extraordinary performance until now.

    ''I wonder...?! When those two meet each other, what kind of exciting battle we will get to see?!''

    Olivia''s eyes lit up just thinking about it.

    ---

    Inside the VIP box.

    "Hahaha, did you see that? RONALD!? My daughter is amazing!!!"

    "Yeah, yeah, I know. Can you stop shaking me already?!" Ronald said while trying to remove David''s hands from his shoulders.

    Looking at theughing, David, Ronald and Lumine were also happy.

    Lumine wasn''t much surprised by Alicia''s performance. Because she is the one who taught her for thest three months.

    She had taught Alicia based on her fighting experiences with Maria and also taught her all of Maria''s fighting styles that she remembered.

    Because Maria was her best friend and they had fought many battles together and against each other. Lumine was extremely familiar with Maria''s use of the Ice element along with her swordsmanship.

    Alicia is also very talented as she managed to grasp them pretty fast based on her teachings.

    After pushing back David''s hands, Ronald smirked while nodding in satisfaction and said, "This is what is to be expected from the future daughter-inw of the Suarez family."

    Lumine shook her head with a sigh, and thought inwardly, ''he is at it again...''

    She had no intention of talking and directly ignored the two of them.

    David really wanted to strangle Ronald at this moment. ''Why do you have to attribute everything to your Suarez Family?''

    But he was also very familiar with Ronald''s personality and knew very well that he would say such things only when he was extremely happy.

    This shows that Ronald was extremely proud and happy for Alicia at this moment.

    Just thinking that his daughter would have such loving inws, David was relieved about his and his wife''s decision regarding this engagement.

    But then, he remembered Luis'' words before and snorted in dissatisfaction.

    ''He reluctantly epted my daughter, right?''

    Even if David knew that Luis was lying. He was still very angry.

    ''I will teach him a lessonter.''

 Chapter 89 We Met!

    Chapter 89 We Met!

    Most of the final candidates were killed at the hands of the powered-up monsters. Which wasn''t much of a surprise, considering that they were outmatched in strength as well as in numbers. Even Emily and Urs shared the same fate of being trampled under them.

    Some candidates showed intense battles and gained many fans among the amazed audience. Nheless, they were still eliminated at the hands of monsters.

    Now only fifteen minutes were left for this Ranking Assessment Survival test toe to an end. Half of the ind was already submerged under sea water and in the next 15 minutes, this ind will bepletely sunk.

    There were only two candidates and monsters left inside the entire ind.

    As for their battle, the audience at the stadium was the most anticipated.

    Those two were the strongest participants this year and with their outstanding performance in this test, they gained countless fans.

    [Everyone! Now the test hase to its final stage and there are only two remaining candidates.]

    [The two candidates are the Thunder Element user and the master shooter, Luis Suarez, and the other one is Alicia Raven, the Ice Element user.]

    [Let''s see what kind of spectacr battle we will get to see when these two rare elements collide.]

    ***

    Inside the VIP box.

    David was looking at the screen with a serious expression on his face while tapping his fingers on his armrest. It seemed that he was very much concerned about this uing battle.

    "Lumine, who do you think will win?" Ronald asked curiously.

    David''s ears perked up when he heard Ronald''s question and he also turned to look at Lumine, waiting for her answer.

    Lumine thought for a moment and said while shaking her head. "I don''t know."

    "You don''t know?" Ronald asked, raising his eyebrow. Lumine is the one who taught them. She should be very well aware of the situation, right?

    Lumine nodded her head and said, "Although Luis'' strength is two stars above Alicia. It''s not that big of a difference that can''t be ovee. Moreover, he will only be using Thunder Element. So, Alicia''s chances of winning are much greater."

    After pausing for a second, she continued.

    "But Luis has a good deal of powerful Thunder Elemental Spells with him."

    After pausing for a second, she continued.

    "But Luis has a good deal of powerful Thunder Elemental Spells with him."

    When Lumine mentioned this, they remembered how Luis had killed a D-rank monster when he was just a G-rank. Which is not some small feat.

    "There must be some spells that he hasn''t even shown us, so nothing can be said. Anything can happen."

    Ronald and David nodded, agreeing with her words. They knew, as per Luis'' personality, he would always have some of his cards hidden. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I don''t know if Luis will take this match seriously," David mumbled while wondering if Luis would be willing to hurt Alicia.

    Although that guy had said all that before, David knew that Luis cared for his daughter a lot.

    "He will."

    This time, Lumine answered confidently.

    Hearing her confident tone, both Ronald and David were surprised as they looked at her in unison and asked. "How can you be so sure?"

    Lumine rubbed Ivy''s tail, then after a few seconds she replied.

    "Alicia has been anticipating her fight with Luis for quite a while. She has worked hard for all these months to match up to his steps. Although she knows that Luis won''t be using his second element and some of his talents. She is still very excited about this fight."

    Ronald and David knew that Luis had been Alicia''s driving force. He is the reason she is trying to push herself and be stronger. So they understood how much it meant to her. But one question still bothered them.

    "Will Luis be willing to hurt her?"

    Lumine''s hand, which was rubbing Ivy''s tail, paused, then she raised her head to look at them and said. "If he doesn''t fight back so as not to hurt her, then that''s not caring. It''s straight up disrespecting her."

    "Disregarding her wishes and showing care for her at this time is like denying all the efforts she has put into trying to catch up to him. Do you think that will make Alicia happy?"

    When they heard her, both Ronald and David went silent.

    But Lumine continued.

    "I am certain Luis knows what to do."

    "Moreover, it''s just a VR world, so he wouldn''t be troubled by it."

    "Though, if it were the real world, I don''t think Luis would ever agree to follow along with her wishes in such a situation."

    Hearing this, Although David had a in expression on his face, inwardly, his anger towards his future son-inw decreased quite a bit.

    ''Hmm, it''s fine to follow her wishes, but he better not make her sad or hurt her.''

    Ronald, on the other hand, just sighed inwardly while thinking. ''Women are soplicated.'' His eyes nced sideways at Lumine, then he sighed once again. But this time the sigh was full of self-pity.

    ***

    Inside the VR world.

    Luis, who was walking through the woods, saw something in his perception and a smile appeared on his face.

    His feet sped up, and within a few seconds, he arrived at a clearing.

    "Did I make you wait?"

    Luis asked, showing a handsome smile while looking at Alicia, who was looking at him coldly.

    "... I''ve been searching for you since the start of the test. Were you intentionally avoiding me?"

    Although her tone seemed cold, Luis knew the difference. She was just pouting whileining, aggrieved.

    "Sorry, but it''s good this way, right? Now we can use the rest of our time, however we want. There won''t be any interruption." Luis said in a deep voice.

    When she heard Luis'' apology, Alicia''s discontent heart eased a bit. But she felt like Luis''tter sentence was a bit misleading.

    With a slight blush, she immediately stated, "We will be fighting!"

    "Yes, what else did you think?" Luis asked, showing a confused and innocent expression, then a teasing smirk appeared on his face.

    Alicia''s face flushed in shame hearing Luis'' question, but seeing the grin on his face she knew that he was teasing her, which made her embarrassment turn into anger.

 Chapter 90 Luis vS Alicia!

    Chapter 90 Luis vS Alicia!

    While Luis and Alicia were having their chat. At the stadium. The audience was looking at Luis and Alicia''s interaction with dumbfounded expressions.

    "Wasn''t he scolding that couple for flirting before?

    "They couldn''t be a couple, brother. He interrupted the confession and shot them."

    "Oh right, my bad. That poor guy, I hope they can get together."

    "Yeah, he also said, ''Couples are so annoying! Flirting around during the test! How can they be so shameless?!''."

    When someone in the audience repeated the exact sentence. The other people couldn''t help but twitch their lips.

    The singles who cheered for Luis before, when he shot that couple. Had expressions as if they had eaten a fly.

    While some people couldn''t help but gossip.

    "They seem quite close."

    "Yeah, see her. She looks so cute when she is embarrassed. It''s inplete contrast to her cold expression before."

    "Hey, do you think she is the fiancee that he was talking about before?"

    "The one who is madly in love with him and he reluctantly epted!? No way!?"

    As soon as that question came out, the expressions of everyone around changed once again. The singles were looking at Luis with envy and hatred.

    "Why don''t I have someone who is in love with me so madly?!"

    "The world is unfair, brother!"

    "This guy is the sinner of all men."

    "God, punish this sinner!"

    *** n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Oblivious to everything that was happening at the stadium and the curses he was receiving.

    Luis looked around with his perception and said. "Around here, there are no monsters. So we don''t have to worry about being disturbed."

    While calming herself down, Alicia said. "I''ve already checked around the area. There are no monsters nearby, so I decided on this ce."

    "As expected of my Alicia-"

    "Can we start already?" Alicia interrupted before Luis could continue. She knew that after praising her, he was going to tease her again. That''s why she stopped him early.

    Luis could see that Alicia was getting impatient. So he stopped teasing her anymore.

    His face changed and with a sharp expression on his face, he looked at her seriously and said, "Then let''s start, but let me remind you, Alicia."

    "Even if I may end up hurting you, I''m not going to take it easy. So, I''ll apologize to you beforehand!"

    When Alicia heard this, the cold expression on her face melted as she showed a soft smile. Then, with a firm expression on her face, she said while shaking her head. "This fight is what I asked for. You don''t have to apologize."

    Luis nodded and said, "I know, but let me tell you one more thing, Alicia!"

    "What is it?" Alicia asked, wondering what else he wanted to say.

    Showing a wide grin, Luis said, "You are not the only one who is excited about this battle!"

    Alicia could feel the excitement in Luis'' voice as he continued.

    "I, too, have been looking forward to fighting with you."

    When Luis said this, the smile blossomed on Alicia''s beautiful face even more obviously. But she still said with a soft snort. "As it should be."

    Then, unsheathing her sword, she waved her hand and used her magic.

    "Ice Shards!"

    The shards of ice were shot at a fast speed, aiming for Luis'' vitals.

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    *Bang!*

    Luis shot them all down with his precise gunmanship.

    By this time, Alicia had already closed in the distance between them.

    Then, with a graceful movement, she showed her beautiful swordsmanship by directly shing at him.

    Luis had already put away his magic gun and used his spell.

    "Lighting Spear!"

    *ng!*

    An elemental spear and a sword coated with mana collided with each other heavily, sending small shockwaves into the air.

    As four eyes faced each other. Luis eximed, feeling the power behind that sword sh.

    "You have be stronger, Alicia."

    "Are you surprised?" Alicia asked with a mischievous smile.

    ''This girl,'' Luis sighed, looking at her reaction, but he was very happy in his heart. From the strength that Alicia showed just now, he could feel that she was already at four stars of Novice rank.

    "I told you before that I won''t lose to you!" Alicia shouted while increasing the speed of her sword shes.

    "It''s too early to say that!" Luis said while observing all her movements with his perception skill and blocking her attacks.

    The sparks floated around everywhere as their weapons collided. The two of them were moving so fast that only their afterimages were visible.

    After hundreds of shes, suddenly a loud explosion sounded as both Alicia and Luis moved back simultaneously.

    "Although you have be strong, Alicia, this sword cannot hold up," Luis said, while looking at the sword she was holding. There were already many cracks in it.

    Even if the sword was coated with mana. It was normal that it could not hold against an elemental weapon. After all, it was just a normal sword. If it wasn''t for mana coating, forget even a few shes, the sword would have been sliced like butter from a single move by the Lightning Spear.

    As expected, when Alicia removed the mana coating, the sword crumbled into pieces.

    "Ice Sword!"

    Throwing away the handle, Alicia instantly used her magic and the next moment a beautiful crystal-like sword appeared in her right hand.

    "This one should make it, right?" Alicia said with a charming smile, which stunned Luis for a moment.

    ''Now!'' Seeing him stunned, Alicia immediately dashed and attacked him.

    ''Ops, not good!'' Luis shook his head,ing back to his senses in time, and managed to block her attacks.

    "Damn, that was dangerous!"

    Luis said with relief, then looked at Alicia warily.

    "I didn''t expect you to y dirty by using Charm attack on me!" Luis showed an ''I''ve seen through you!'' expression.

    ''I didn''t do anything!'' Alicia was aggrieved, but she didn''t lose her focus from the fight.

    As she disyed her beautiful and precise swordsmanship, the fight between them started bing more intense.

    ***

    Character info:

    ***

    Sera Dennis - Female Lead (Regressor)

    Attribute - Earth

    Talents -

    1) Shamin (A)

    2) Summoner (S)

    3) Witch Craft (A)

 Chapter 91 Luis vS Alicia II

    Chapter 91 Luis vS Alicia II

    As Alicia disyed her beautiful and precise swordsmanship, the fight between them started bing even more intense. However, their shes weren''t only limited to weapons.

    "Thunder Snake!"

    The Thunder Snake glided towards Alicia, but before it could reach her, she instantly used her magic.

    "Icicles!"

    Sharp icicles shot at fast speed and stabbed at the Thunder Snake, pinning it down on the ground. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    *Kaboom!*

    Unable to move anymore, the Thunder Snake discharged there and exploded, forming a small crater.

    Alicia knew that they only had a little more than 10 minutes before the end of the test. If they continued fighting using small moves, it wouldn''t end early.

    Moreover, she didn''t want their fight to end in a draw. That''s why she decided to go all out.

    "Ice Field!"

    Using that magic, Alicia instantly froze everything around the 30-meter radius of them.

    Luis looked around in amazement while feeling a slight chill.

    "Amazing! Now the entire battlefield has be your turf!"

    Although Alicia knew that Luis'' praise was sincere, she still sighed in her heart. Because she knew that if Luis was willing to use his spatial magic, all these moves would have been useless in front of him.

    Seeing her somewhat downcast look, Luis shed his Lightning Spear at her and said sternly, "Stop thinking about unimportant things in the middle of the battle."

    Alicia''s body instinctively moved and blocked the attack with her Ice Sword, but when she heard Luis'' reprimand, she immediately came to her senses and nodded apologetically.

    ''Yeah, as Luis said, there''s no need to think about those things right now. I am sure that in the future I will find a way to deal with his spatial magic. For now, I just have to focus on defeating him.''

    The fighting intent became even stronger in her eyes. Just when she was about to continue attacking, she heard him say.

    "I want you to focus on only me and nothing else."

    This time Alicia didn''t shy away from Luis'' teasing. Instead, she nodded very seriously and said. "Yes, that''s what I intend to do. My eyes are only on you."

    This unexpected reaction from her surprised Luis. But Alicia continued speaking while using her magic. "I will slice your cheeky head off and defeat you."

    "Ice des!"

    The next moment, several Ice des came out of the frozen ground and attacked Luis.

    "That''s not something you should say to your loving husband," Luis shouted and immediately used his spell.

    "Discharge!"

    Electric currents erupted from all around Luis'' body as the Ice des that were about to stab him broke down and because of the heating out of the electric currents, they started turning into steam.

    "I know that your ''Discharge'' spell only works for a few seconds. After that, you will still have to face the barrage of my next attacks." Alicia said as she increased the number of attacks from the ice des.

    ''Discharge spell costs a lot of mana. So he won''t be able to use it much.''

    She knew that after the protection of the Discharge spell had worn off, Luis would try other ways to break through the siege of her attacks.

    That''s when she will use her other magic and wear him out. Of course, she was still wary of his powerful spells. Such as Thunder Javelin. But, Alicia knew that Thunder Javelin can only be used in a straight line, so as long as she doesn''t get hit, it''s not a problem.

    This is the benefit of knowing your opponent, and Alicia was taking advantage of it to the fullest.

    ''Everything is going ording to what I nned.'' Alicia showed a confident smile as she waited for the effect of the discharge spell to be worn off.

    But Luis, who was still under the protection of the Discharge spell and surrounded by Ice des, smiled and said, "Alicia, there is a move that I prepared as a surprise for you. Tell me what you think about it."

    When Alicia heard Luis'' words, she had a bad feeling in her heart. ''Don''t tell me.''

    The next moment, the electric currents surrounding Luis started to be calm down and flow smoothly. They encircled him and then enveloped his body.

    A bright light shed in his position and then, what appeared in front of Alicia''s surprised eyes was a golden Luis. To be precise, a golden film enveloped his body.

    "This is a move I created bybining Mana Coating and Discharge spell. I call it ''Thunder Coating''." Luis gave a small exnation for his beloved fiancee and then asked while showing a handsome smile. "So, how is it?"

    Alicia had to admit that at this moment, Luis looked even more handsome or rather ethereal. But that is not the point. The matter of concern is that she had a feeling that this battle has be very difficult for her.

    Gripping the Ice Sword tightly, she asked, "When did you create this move?"

    "A few days ago," Luis answered thoughtfully.

    Alicia knew that the perfect battle n that she imagined might have messed up at this moment. ''Well, I should have expected it.''

    The Lightning Spear on Luis'' hand turned into electric currents and then assimted with the Thunder Coating.

    "Let''s continue, Alicia," Luis said as he looked at Alicia sharply.

    To Luis'' invitation, Alicia narrowed her eyes and said grimly. "Sure, let''s see what this move of yours is capable of."

    "Ice des!"

    "Icicles!"

    Ice des and Icicles started plunging towards Luis at a fast speed, but Luis just punched forward and shattered them into pieces.

    This time, Luis didn''t worry about dodging and attacked even more aggressively.

    He crushed all her attacks and calmly walked in her direction, closing the distance between them.

    "Ice bird!"

    Alicia used another magic, and the next moment, a crystal bird shot forward.

    Luis instantly disappeared from his position, only leaving a sh of lightning, and appeared directly in front of the Ice bird.

    *Boom!*

    Then, he punched heavily and the Ice bird was crushed.

    "What else have you got? Just bring it on."

 Chapter 92 Luis vS Alicia III (FIN)

    Chapter 92 Luis vS Alicia III (FIN)

    Luis'' sentence irked Alicia. "In that case, don''t mind me!"

    She dashed toward him while using her magic at the same time.

    "Ice Bind!"

    With little effort, Luis broke free from the ice bind and dodged the Ice Sword shing at him. Alicia''s speed on the frozen ground was even faster and so were her attacks.

    Her swordsmanshipbined with her Ice Magic formed a deadlybination of attacks.

    Luis used his perception and concentrated on dodging her attacks. Then, as soon as he got the opportunity, he grabbed her Ice Sword and shattered it into pieces.

    Alicia wasn''t flustered as she immediately started using her martial arts,bined with Mana Coating.

    Her attacks changed from shes and stabs to punches and kicks.

    Every time their fists collided, they formed shockwaves, spreading in all directions.

    Because of their battle, the frozen ground cracked. The surrounding trees were razed to the ground. The frozen battlefield was full of craters and pits.

    They exchanged several moves and Alicia was well aware that she was at a disadvantage right now.

    Thunder Coating is more powerful than Mana Coating and Luis is one star above her, so his strength is also very strong.

    ''I don''t know how long I can continue!''

    Just as that thought crossed her mind, Alicia remembered another thing. ''Wait, how much time is left, anyway?''

    She immediately nced at the timer which was at the corner of her eye.

    [00:01:20]

    ''Only a minute?'' Looking at Luis'' state, Alicia knew that even if she found a way to defeat him, it would be very difficult to bring him down in a minute.

    ''NO! I have to defeat him! I can''t stop now! I have to keep trying until the very end!''

    Since they didn''t have much time left, Alicia started using her mana without any reservation.

    "Ice Swords!"

    Several Ice swords appeared around Alicia and were shot at Luis, ready to stab him.

    "!"

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    Many small Thunder Javelins appeared around Luis as they shot forward and shed with Alicia''s Ice Swords.

    *Boom!*

    *Boom!*

    ...

    As every second passed, Alicia and Luis'' punches started bing even stronger and faster.

    In this battle, Luis understood how strong Alicia had really be.

    ''I can see your hard work, Alicia. From your punches, I can feel your strength.''

    ''I can say you are far stronger than I expected you to be.''

    ''Which surprised me very much!''

    Luis became a little emotional as he thought about it. Then, he nced at the timer where only 15 seconds were left and his eyes became firm.

    ''But, if you want to keep up with me now and in the future. Then it''s not enough.''

    ''You will have to work even harder.''

    ''Because the enemies I am going to face in the future will be very strong.''

    ''If you want to fight alongside me, then you will have to be stronger along with me.''

    ''So, this time you will have to lose, Alicia.''

    Kicking at her guts, Luis pushed her back. Then immediately used his new spell.

    "Lightning Whip!"

    The golden whip appeared in his hand, which he immediately swung forward.

    "What?!" Before Alicia could recover from the power of that kick. She found her neck tied up by something and then her body went numb.

    ''Am I paralysed?"

    Alicia was shocked to find that the Lightning Whip went past her Mana Coating and stunned her.

    ''This is bad!'' She knew what it meant to be paralysed at this time.

    She saw the timer and there were only 10 seconds left.

    Gritting her teeth, Alicia used her ice element to freeze her body. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Because of the chill, the numbness decreased, but she still didn''t manage to get out of the Lightning Whip in time.

    Just when thest 10 seconds were left. Luis pulled Alicia towards him.

    Alicia felt that she might be choked to death, but to her surprise, nothing of the sort happened.

    The Lightning Whip paralysed her body again, and Luis gently pulled her towards himself.

    ''No way is he trying to draw?''

    Thinking of this, Alicia''s expression became cold. She was paralyzed now and Luis could easily defeat her within the time left. This is his victory. But if he tries to draw for her sake, then she will be very angry.

    She wanted to ask what he was trying to do. But because she was paralyzed, she couldn''t speak. In the end, she could only stare at him with gritted teeth.

    ''I can tell that she is very angry now.'' Luis chuckled inwardly, looking at Alicia''s expression. He knew that she misunderstood him. But he didn''t bother to exin.

    He knew many people were watching them andter Alicia could understand what happened.

    ''Even though I said I''m fine hurting you. To eliminate you, I will have to kill you, and that is something I don''t want to do. But well, I also can''t let it end in a draw.''

    ''So, I am going to make this exception. Even though I said I wouldn''t use it.''

    Grabbing her waist and bringing her close to his body, Luis erupted in golden lightning, which surrounded them instantly, blocking every sight.

    Luis made it look like he was using a big move to eliminate Alicia. In reality, he peered into her beautiful blue eyes that were staring at him and used his Illusion Magic.

    "See youter, Alicia." When he said that, Alicia''s eyes turned white, and she went unconscious.

    With his Illusion Magic, Luis made her fall into an illusion in which she finds herself dying.

    The VR technology is based on human brain signals. Even if what happened to Alicia was just an illusion, her brain believed it to be true and so will the mechanism of this VR world.

    In the Illusion, Alicia will find herself dying and the VR mechanism will count it as Alicia''s elimination.

    Just 3 seconds before the test ended. Alicia''s body in Luis'' embrace started disappearing.

    Taking a feel of her body, Luis thought.

    ''I would much prefer to hold the real Alicia than her avatar.''

    Then, shaking his head, he decided to think about itter.

    ''Well anyway, this test finally ended.''

    ''... and it seems... I''ve ranked First.''

    Then the timer came to zero, and Luis'' vision went ck.

 Chapter 93 Miras Curiosity!

    93 Mira''s Curiosity!

    When Luis opened his eyes, he found himself back inside the Dive Capsule.

    ''These two hours felt so long...''

    Heaving a sigh, when he came out of the capsule. He saw the staff who was managing the capsules in his row before, looking at him with a wide smile.

    "Congrattions! Candidate Luis!"

    "Thanks," Luis replied with a polite smile. Then looked at the empty capsules around him. ''It seems the others have already left.''

    When he saw Luis looking around, the staff member immediately exined. "The eliminated candidates have already been escorted out."

    "You should also head out. Someone will be there to escort you to the stage at the exit of the hall."

    "I see, thanks."

    Giving a slight nod to the staff member, Luis left towards the exit of the hall.

    Passing by the rows of empty Dive Capsules, when Luis arrived near the exit of the hall, he saw a familiar figure walking a few meters in front of him.

    This person was none other than Alicia, who came out of her dive capsule just a few seconds before him.

    When Alicia heard the sound of footsteps behind her, she turned back and wasn''t surprised that it was Luis who was walking a few steps behind her.

    Her feet stopped as she continued staring at him with a questioning look. But in reply, Luis just shrugged his shoulders with a smile.

    Looking at his reaction, Alicia was speechless. She ced her right palm on her forehead and then shook her head while sighing helplessly.

    Watching her reaction, Luis just smiled and said, "Let''s talk about itter."

    "Hmm-mn," Alicia nodded understandingly and started walking together with him.

    No further words were exchanged between them as they exited the hall together.

    ---

    "Hello, and Congrattions! You two. For being the first and second-ranking candidates in this year''s entrance test."

    "I am Mira, a second-year student of the Oracle Academy, and from now on I''ll be your senior. Nice to meet you!"

    Just when Luis and Alicia came out of the hall, they were greeted by an enthusiastic senior. This cute senior with big eyes seemed very excited for some reason.

    Luis gave a polite smile and said. "Hello, Senior! It''s a pleasure to meet you."

    Alicia also nodded with a in expression and said, "d to make your acquaintance."

    Mira nodded while switching nces between the two with obvious curiosity. "I am the one tasked with escorting you two to the stage. So follow me."

    Luis and Alicia also noticed her behaviour, but they didn''t say anything about it.

    ---

    As the three of them were walking together in the long corridor silently. Mira continued ncing at the two of them, then finally she couldn''t hold back her curiosity and decided to ask.

    "Junior Luis!"

    "Yes, senior?"

    "You can just call me Mira." Mira smiled while ncing at Alicia, observing her reaction.

    "Senior Mira." Luis noticed her weird actions, which made him wonder what was up with her.

    Mira pouted, seeing that Luis was so stubborn, but then her eyes nced at Alicia beside her and a knowing smile appeared on her face.

    Getting close to Luis, she asked in a low voice.

    "What is your rtionship with Junior Alicia?"

    Although she talked in whispers, it was loud enough for all of them to hear clearly. Even Alicia looked over, wondering why she would ask that.

    Luis didn''t answer and asked with a puzzled face. "Why is Senior Mira interested?"

    "Just tell me!" Mira said with a stubborn look. Her expression said that she wouldn''t stop asking until she got the answer.

    Luis had a feeling that Mira was one troublesome senior. He sighed and answered after a few seconds.

    "... Well, we are engaged."

    "Really?!" Surprising both Luis and Alicia. Mira let out a loud exmation.

    Then she observed Alicia with a gossipy look and mumbled.

    "So she is ''that'' fiancee you were talking about. Huh."

    *Sigh*

    "You really can''t tell people from their looks." Mira sighed, thinking that looks can be deceiving.

    Alicia ignored Mira''s rude remarks and focused her attention on her former sentence.

    ''Did he say something about me? And wasn''t Mira meeting him for the first time now?''

    She immediately turned to look at Luis with a questioning gaze.

    Luis was also confused for a moment, wondering, ''What is she talking about?'' but then he remembered something and gulped nervously, ''No way, it can''t be, right?''

    With a bad feeling in his heart, he asked while hoping that his assumption was incorrect. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Um, Senior Mira, isn''t this the first time we have met? When did I ever talk to you about Alicia?"

    Mira tilted her head cutely, then with a p of her hands, she eximed, "Oh, how rude of me! Did I say that out loud?!"

    Seeing Luis and Alicia nod in unison. Mira''s face blushed in shame as she looked at Alicia and apologised sincerely. "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to say that."

    Alicia shook her head indifferently and said, "It''s fine. I''m not bothered. Just answer Luis'' question."

    She is well aware of her personality and knows that other people don''t have good opinions regarding it. But she doesn''t really care about the opinions of some unimportant people.

    As long as the people she cares about don''t hate her. It doesn''t matter to her what the outsiders think of her.

    ...

    Mira was still a little embarrassed, but seeing that Alicia wasn''t angry at her. Her embarrassment eased a little.

    Then, as Alicia asked, she answered Luis'' question.

    "We are indeed meeting for the first time. But I saw your performance on the screen. It was amazing."

    Luis had a wry smile on his face as his guess became even more certain. Sure enough, the next moment Mira said.

    "I am talking about your conversation with Prince Thomas before you identally eliminated him."

    "When you told him and the two princesses about your fiancee. I got curious if junior Alicia is the one you were talking about and it seems like I guessed right."

    Alicia was very curious about what she meant by him identally eliminating that bastard''s brother.

    But she understood that since those people were involved, something must have happened during the test that she was unaware of.

    Creation is hard, cheer me up!

    Dakshay

 Chapter 94 Luis Thoughts.

    94 Luis'' Thoughts.

    Mira was about to continue talking, but their conversation ended shortly as they had already arrived near the stage''s back entrance.

    "Well guys, it seems our chat will end here. But we can see each other often from now on and then we will have a lot to talk about."

    "Also, if you have any problems while in the academy, just call me. I''ll be right there."

    "See you guyster!"

    With those words, Mira smiled at the two of them and left. Since her work here was done, she had other things to do.

    Alicia saw Mira''s distance back, and she turned to Luis with a questioning look. "What is she talking about?"

    Luis sighed, expecting her to ask that question. Still maintaining his calm expression, he said.

    "Well, there are some things I''ll tell you about everythingter. Just don''t let it bother you."

    Alivia continued looking at him inly but still asked with an indifferent face.

    "... Did you say something bad about me?"

    If the situation needs, and Luis had to say something bad about her for some reason, then she will still support him. But in her heart, she doesn''t want Luis to think badly of her.

    Luis thought for a moment and answered, "Not exactly."

    Alicia didn''t notice this, but her frown rxed a bit when she heard that Luis didn''t say anything bad about her. It seems that even if she doesn''t show it; she is still very concerned about his opinion of herself.

    "So you made some lies?" Alicia asked inly. But her tone was quite rxedpared to before.

    Luis shook his head and said with a serious expression, "Well, half of it is just my imagination, since I don''t know the truth and only you can answer it. As for the remaining half, it''s aplete lie."

    "Is that so?"

    His words made her curious to know what exactly happened, and she was about to ask, but his next sentence made her words stop.

    "We will talk about thatter. First, we should go to the stage. Many people are waiting for us."

    "Hmm." Alicia nodded understandingly.

    Luis looked at Alicia from the corner of his eyes and wondered what kind of reaction she would have once she finds out. But that''s something forter. For now,pleting the final part of this entrance exam is more important.

    ''After all, it''s lunchtime and people are hungry.''

    Thinking so, he pushed open the door in front of him and said, "Let''s just get this over fast and then have a delicious lunch."

    ***

    When Luis and Alicia walked together in the narrow passage leading to the stage. They could hear the sounds of Kevin''s announcement.

    "Are you excited, Alicia?" Luis asked, looking over curiously.

    "No, I just want to end this early and go back to y with Ivy."

    Luis'' lips twitched as heined, "You were just away for a few hours."

    "She is still an infant. She needs my care all the time." Alicia answered calmly.

    Luis sighed and said, "Mom is there with her and Lily is also looking after her. So there''s nothing for you to worry about."

    "I know and that''s why I''m relieved," Alicia said as she looked at Luis and asked the same question back. "Are you excited, Luis?

    She couldn''t see any joy in Luis'' expression, which made her curious. It seemed as if it didn''t matter to him whether he ranked first or not.

    "Me?" Luis pointed at himself, not expecting Alicia to ask that question.

    Alicia nodded seriously and said, "Yeah, you don''t seem excited about it. Or rather, different from other people, you don''t seem to have any excitement about joining the academy either. You look as if you are preparing yourself for�� a war."

    Listening to Alicia''s thoughts, Luis just smiled bitterly, thinking how right she was.

    ''War? What I am preparing for is something even worse than that.''

    If war is something that involves the lives of people from many countries and the economy of the whole world. Then what this world is about to face is theplete end and that is not once, but again and again.

    Now that the Academy is going to start, slowly many secrets about this world will start unfolding one by one. All kinds of dangerous threats will befall this world.

    This world is moving towards its doom. It''s just that the people are unaware, thinking everything is alright.

    And he, who knows about the future, how can he be excited about it?

    Of course, if he was oblivious, just like others, then he may also have been very excited about joining the academy or ranking first in the entrance exam.

    Hell, he would have been so proud that he would have bragged about it for his entire life. Even in his previous life, he never had such a great achievement.

    So, of course, he should be excited. But, just remembering what kind of future this world holds, he can''t rx his mind.

    His strength and means are not enough. What worried him more was the unexpected. If he can''t prepare himself in time and those threats appear early, then he doesn''t know what will happen to this world. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Surely this world has many powerhouses to fight against those threats and solve some disasters. But just putting his hope in them is not something Luis is willing to do.

    Moreover, the protagonist, who has the biggest chance of saving this world, concerns him further since he looks even more unreliable.

    If it was before, he would have just tried to get stronger and find some ways to survive. But now.

    Luis nced at Alicia beside him and thought.

    ''I have something worth protecting which I don''t want to lose.''

    ''Also, who would like to live in fear of death all day long, just trying to survive?''

    ''Isn''t it better to just be the strongest and eliminate all the threats so I can enjoy my life peacefully with my small family?''

    ''But to achieve that dream. I have a lot of hard work to do and challenges to face.''

    ''Anyway, I don''t need to think about thoseplicated matters now.''

    Shaking his head, Luis turned to look at Alicia and answered with a smile.

    "Well, I thought the academy life would be boring. But since you are with me, I think I''ll enjoy it too."

 Chapter 95 Invitation!

    Chapter 95 Invitation!

    Alicia pouted and was about to get angry. She thought that Luis was just teasing her again. But when she saw his serious expression, she understood that he was very sincere when he said that.

    ''Does that mean...?'' n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Her ears turned red due to shyness, and a soft smile appeared on her face.

    "The feeling is mutual." She uttered those words while trying to hide her smile.

    "Wow! I didn''t expect you to be so honest." Luis said, showing a surprised expression. Normally Alicia would just shy away or try to deny herself. Seeing her being so honest about her feelings was a big surprise for him.

    Alicia felt a little annoyed feeling Luis'' sarcasm. All her previous shyness disappeared as she red at him and said, "Don''t think too much. You are just a good source of entertainment."

    "Oh, I''m so hurt, I didn''t expect my fiancee to say such hurtful words," Luis said while clutching his chest, pretending to be hurt.

    Alicia smirked seeing his third-rate performance and said while looking at him with conceit.

    "Heh, if you care so much about your fiancee''s opinion, then you should do something fiance-like for her as her fiance. Right?"

    Luis'' eyes brightened as he showed a look of sudden realization.

    "Huh? Oh my god, how can I forget something so important?"

    "You know, it''s not something that, I, the party of concern, should remind you," Alicia said while shaking her head.

    "Well, you are right," Luis nodded, admitting his mistake. "We haven''t been on any dates together since that movie date two months ago."

    "At least you realize it now," Alicia said with a sigh.

    Although she showed a nonchnt attitude on the surface. Inwardly, she was very shy and expectant.

    After theirst date was interrupted, she has been wanting to go with him on another date ever since. She doesn''t realise why, but she just wants to. Being around him, she finds it veryfortable, and it also makes her yearn for more of this strange, giddy feeling that she has.

    As a girl, she believes it is the responsibility of the boy to ask for a date. It is totally not because she is too embarrassed to ask. That''s why she has been waiting for the opportunity when they will get to go on another date, or at least for him to invite her. But after that movie date, both of them had been so busy investing themselves in training that they didn''t get any chance.

    Oh, they did have a lot of alone time, but not so much that it can be considered as a date. Even when the two of them went out together. It was mostly for dungeons clearing and increasingbat experiences.

    Though she doesn''t hate it when she fights together with him and clears dungeons, she still wants to have a date that can be considered normal.

    ''Like something a normal c-couple will do.''

    Alicia does not know much about it. But she still wants to try it, without being too obvious to Luis.

    And now that the entrance exam is over, she wants to go on a date with Luis before the Academy starts. That''s why when she saw the opportunity, she directly went for it. Although it did look like she was talking in a joking tone. As long as her purpose is achieved, everything is fine.

    "In that case," Luis suddenly stopped, then looked at Alicia seriously and asked. "Alicia, oh my so lovely wife, will you go on a date with me tomorrow?"

    Sure enough, just like she wanted. Luis asked her out on a date. But when he suddenly called her wife, she lost herposure.

    "W-what w-wife, not yet, I- I am just your fiancee," Alicia said hastily while shuttering as she was very flustered.

    Luis looked at her very seriously and said, "I know, but you should try getting used to it. Take it as practice for our future."

    "P-Practice...?!" Alicia felt iprehensible for a moment. She couldn''t find any words to refute him. But she was just too shy.

    "Yeah, practice." Luis nodded with a calm expression and said, "Why don''t you try calling me hubby?"

    "Huh...?!"

    Alicia felt her entire face turn red in shame when she heard Luis'' request.

    ''S-should I... say something like that?''

    ''No, no, no!''

    ''It''s too early for that!''

    Her mind was in a mess, but then she saw his teasing smirk and her face became ck in an instant.

    "Why! You!!!" Alicia was about to get angry again.

    When Luis immediately used his chip by changing the topic.

    "You haven''t answered to my invitation yet. Are you willing to go on a date with me tomorrow?" He asked in a gentle voice. His voice felt so soothing to her ears, as if it was tempting her to agree.

    The ups and downs of her emotions made Alicia even more iprehensible.

    ''Why am I always like this in front of him? He could always one-up on me no matter what.''

    This thought made her frustrated.

    Showing an expression as if resigning herself, she said, "Well, as your fiancee. I guess it is something that should be expected of me. So, yes. I will go on this date with you."

    Luis just chuckled and showed a handsome smile on his face.

    ''Although, even if you wouldn''t have mentioned it. I would have taken you on a date soon.''

    ''Also, after you know about that matter. I think a date would be a good way tofort you, too.''

    Just when Luis and Alicia''s conversation ended. They heard their names being called.

    [... Showing us a marvellous battle! The second-ranking student in this entrance exam! The Ice Element user!]

    [ALICIA RAVEN!]

    OHHHHHHHH!

    The audience cheered loudly, which ended pretty soon as Kevin''s voice continued.

    [And the top student of this year''s entrance test! the Lightning Element user! Also referred to by the audience as the Cool Guy!]

    "What kind of nickname is that?" Alicia mumbled, looking at Luis speechlessly.

 Chapter 96 Interview!

    Chapter 96 Interview!

    "What kind of nickname is that?" Alicia mumbled, looking at Luis speechlessly.

    Luis also sighed while shrugging his shoulders. He has no clue what''s up with that nickname. After all, he, too, was in the VR world all this time.

    "Let''s ask Lilyter."

    [LUIS SUAREZ!]

    [EVERYONE! HAVE A LOUD APPLAUSE TO WELCOME THEM ON STAGE!]

    Kevin shouted with his voice full of excitement.

    "Let''s go," Luis said, while looking at Alicia with a smile.

    Alicia also gave a gentle smile as both of them walked out of the passage.

    As soon as the two of them entered the stage and appeared in everyone''s sight. The entire stadium erupted in cheers.

    OHHHHHHHHHH

    WAHHHHHHHH

    YEAHHHHHHH

    "Wow, this is one grand wee! Such great enthusiasm," Luis eximed, looking around with a smile and waving his hand towards the audience. Which caused another wave of loud cheers.

    WOOOOWWWWW

    Alicia also nodded, agreeing to his words standing beside him. But in her heart. She was already feeling impatient.

    "Can''t they just end it already?"

    After all, she has a date to prepare for.

    ***

    Kevin appeared on stage in a gentlemanly manner as he approached Luis and Alicia.

    [What a great battle we got to witness today! Both of your performances were outstanding!]

    "Thank you," Luis answered politely. While Alicia nodded with a in expression on her face.

    [As the top students of this year''s entrance exam. We would like to have a word with the two of you.] n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "With pleasure," Luis replied with a smile, so Alicia also nodded reluctantly. She really didn''t want to waste time here, but since Luis had agreed, she would also stay here for some time.

    Kevin was about to give microphones to Luis and Alicia, which they politely declined. From Luis'' gesture, he understood that both of them were capable of infilling mana in their voice. This realization made him surprised.

    ''As expected from the top students of the entrance exam. Their mana control is so good.''

    [Then my first question is to Miss Alicia. How are you feeling now that you are the second-ranking student in the entrance test?]

    "Pardon me?" Alicia asked in confusion. Since she wasn''t feeling anything.

    [I mean, you were only a few seconds away from ending up in a draw. Were you disappointed?]

    Alicia didn''t want to answer and was ready to ignore his question, but when she saw Luis'' urging look, she sighed and decided to speak.

    Shaking her head, she said, "No, it''s the result that matters. I lost, and that''s a fact. So there is no point thinking about what could have happened. I can only try to be better so that next time I can win."

    [Oh, what an indomitable spirit. I wish you good luck.]

    Kevin smiled and shifted his eyes to Luis.

    [My next question is for the Cool Guy, Mr. Luis.]

    "Um, before we continue, can I ask something?"

    [Hm, Yes, please.]

    Kevin looked at Luis, wondering what he wanted to know.

    "What''s up with that nickname?" Luis asked, looking at Kevin with curious eyes.

    [Oh, right!] Kevin eximed as if he just realized something and said. [My apologies for not exining earlier. It''s the nickname that the audience gave you.]

    "The audience gave me?" Luis was surprised, not expecting this to be the case.

    [Yes. With your performance in this test, you have be the audience''s favourite.]

    Well, he also gained a lot of jealous haters. But Kevin didn''t intend to say it.

    [Now can I ask my question?]

    "Please do."

    [In that case, Mr Luis. Can you tell us how you are feeling as the top student in this entrance exam?]

    "Hmm, well, I am happy. Since it means all the hard work I''ve put into was worth it."

    [Yes, a wonderful answer indeed.] Kevin said while apuding, then his eyes glinted as he asked his next question.

    [What do you have to say about the test? How did you feel about it? Was it difficult?]

    When Kevin asked this, all the viewers were also waiting for Luis'' answer intently.

    Luis'' performance has left a deep impression on every one of them, so they can pretty much judge how the test has been for him. But they all still wanted to know what his thoughts were about the test.

    Luis was a little thoughtful, then he said with a serious expression. "If I have to answer, then I''d say, as expected, of the Oracle Academy. From the written test to the ability test and then finally the survival test."

    "All students are selected based on what to expect from them in the real world. Their knowledge, their abilities, and their survival skills. Even from the entrance tests, they are preparing the students for the future."

    ---

    When the professors heard Luis'' answer, they looked at him with satisfaction.

    "As expected of the top student. Being able to see through the core of these tests." Professor Hardy said with a satisfied smile.

    Professor Darrin looked at Professor Hardy coldly and said, "Anyone with basicmon sense can see that."

    "Yeah, yeah," Professor Hardy shrugged with a smile, not taking his words to heart and said, "But it''s still good that a student with such great potential has basicmon sense and does not have some personality issues."

    Professor Darrin almost choked on Professor Hardy''s words. Because he knew the evident meaning behind his words. He wasn''t just praising Luis. But indirectly mocking him.

    He gave a sharp look to Professor Hardy and stopped speaking further.

    Professor Olivia, on the other hand, was looking at Luis and Alicia with shining eyes as she rubbed her chin thoughtfully.

    ---

    Kevin smiled at Luis and said.

    [That''s a very objective opinion based on the overall tests.]

    [But Mr Luis what me and the audience are more interested in is your personal opinion regarding this test.]

    "My personal opinion? I see." Luis nodded in understanding and said with a serious expression on his face. "It was a difficult test, indeed."

    But his answer made the audience dumbfounded.

 Chapter 97 Betrayed Luis!

    Chapter 97 Betrayed Luis!

    Kevin''s lips twitched. From what he remembers when watching Luis'' performance, the only time he fought a hard battle was with Alicia. For the rest of the test, he was ying in the easy mode.

    Strolling around, watching others fight, eating snacks, instant-killing enemies, interrupting someone''s confession and so on.

    What kind of survival test was that?

    [In what ways did Mr. Luis find this test hard? Would you like to tell us?]

    Luis nodded and said, "Finding your way through the terrains and searching for other candidates to hunt... I mean eliminate."

    Kevin''s eyes squinted as he asked, [What about your battles? What do you have to say about the strength of your opponents?]

    Luis showed a somewhat bored expression and said, "As you might have seen. Leaving my battle with Alicia aside, my other battles shouldn''t even be considered a battle. It never went beyond a few moves."

    "What can I say about their strength when they can''t even face me long enough to exchange moves? They are just too weak now for me to evaluate them."

    Although what Luis said might have sounded arrogant. The people who have watched his performance couldn''t help but agree.

    Of course, the eliminated candidates who didn''t meet Luis in the test were very dissatisfied with his words.

    "Damn! He is so arrogant!"

    "Just because he ranked first, he thinks he is some hotshot?!"

    "It''s probably luck. He must be hiding somewhere and not finding powerful opponents."

    "Just let me see himter! I''ll beat the shit out of him!"

    ---

    After that, Kevin asked a few simple questions from Luis and Alicia, ending the interview.

    "Thanks to the two of you for answering my questions."

    "It was our pleasure," Luis replied on behalf of both of them.

    With that, Luis and Alicia left the stage. The benefits of their ranking are something that they would receiveter and they will be notified by their mana bracelets.

    [Everyone, so this is where we conclude today''s events. Thank you for joining us on this asion.]

    ---

    After leaving the stage, Luis turned on his mana bracelet and asked.

    "Lily, where is Mom at this moment?"

    The next second, Lily''s childish voice sounded.

    {Master, Mom is at the VIP box number 7!}

    Under Lily''s navigation, it didn''t take long for them to arrive at VIP box number 7.

    Just when Luis was about to knock on the door.

    *ck*

    It was opened from inside and standing in front of them was Lumine, who was looking at them with a smile. "Come in."

    "We are back." Luis and Alicia said in unison.

    But just when Luis entered the box, he felt a sudden chill on his spine.

    ''What was that?''

    He looked around and saw his dad, shaking his head helplessly, and standing beside him was Uncle David, who was looking at him with an unfriendly gaze.

    At this moment, Luis knew. He fucked up!

    While trying to maintain hisposure. He greeted them with a calm smile.

    "Hello, Dad! Hello, Uncle David! When did you two arrive?!"

    Ronald showed a wry smile and said, "After your written test began. Also, good job Ranking First in the exam."

    "Well, thanks!" Luis smiled nervously as he nced at David beside him.

    "... Don''t you have some exnations to do, brat?!" David said while restraining his anger.

    Luis nodded and said, "Shall we talk after lunch?"

    "..." David didn''t answer and continued looking at him with hostility.

    "I''m sure Alicia must also be hungry," Luis said while gesturing towards Alicia.

    Hearing this, David finally signed and said, "Fine, but after lunch, I want a proper exnation. If your answer doesn''t satisfy me, be prepared to receive a punch from me."

    ''Receive a punch from you?! How is it any different from death?!''

    With a horrified expression, Luis turned to look at Lumine and Ronald, begging them to save him.

    "Don''t think about it! Your parents aren''t going to save you this time!" David said while gripping his fist with his palm, showing a fierce expression.

    Luis felt betrayed. He looked at Lumine at Ronald as if asking whether what he said was true or not.

    But the two of them directly ignored him by turning their heads away.

    Alicia was left standing there confused, not understanding why her father was so angry with Luis.

    She remembered their conversation with Mira. ''Is it something rted to that?''

    She wanted to ask Lumine, but since Luis was ready to talk after lunch. She decided to wait. After all, as Luis said, she too was quite hungry at the moment.

    Although the VR world doesn''t have any physical exertion, she could still feel mentally tired.

    So, with an awkward silence between David and Luis. The five of them, along with the napping Ivy, left for a popr restaurant where Lumine had made a reservation.

    ***

    While Luis and the others were on their way to have lunch.

    Inside the stadium, several students were looking at the ranking list disyed on the screen with a variety of expressions on their faces.

    "My rank is at the bottom. Fortunately, I survived long enough to qualify."

    "At least you qualified, brother. I couldn''t even qualify," a failed candidate said with a depressed face.

    "Are you going to try other academies?"

    "What other options do I have? It''s just my bad luck to meet the first-ranked student and be eliminated early. Otherwise, with my strength, I could have made it."

    "What? Were you eliminated by him?!"

    "Yeah... Sigh... Not only me. He also eliminated many others."

    "Huh?! Just how many people he killed?"

    "Just look at the kill ranking on that board."

    "There''s a kill ranking too?"

    The student turned to look at the kill ranking and his eyes widened in shock.

    "What the heck?! Am I seeing it right?!"

    "I had the same reaction before."

    "217 KILLS!!! Just how is it possible? The test was only for 120 minutes. In that short time, he not only needs to look for opponents but also fight them. How did he do it?!"

    "I want to know too." The failed candidate sighed and said. "Competing with such a monster, how can we normal people have any chance?"

    *Sigh*

    "The world is unfair."

    ***

    "Fourth Rank, huh?! Not bad, I guess," Emily mumbled while looking at the Ranking list. Although she wanted to get the First rank. She knew it was quite difficult to achieve.

    ''If only I didn''t meet that powered-up monster. Maybe I could have reached the third rank.'' She thought while reading the name of the person who came third.

    ''Seraphina Evansville...?! Hmm... That name sounds kinda familiar. Is it the Evansville Family from the Aiverson Empire?''

    "It should be." She mumbled while looking at the first and second names.

    ''That annoying guy seems to be more powerful than I thought... I didn''t expect him to be a Novice Rank.''

    Emily was very surprised when her Elven royal guard told her that Luis was a Novice.

    ''He is quite good. I just wonder how his future achievements will be.''

    ''Anyway, so that''s his fiancee that he was talking about, huh?! Alicia Raven, another Novice Rank! Both of them are quite an interesting pair!''

    ''But looking at her, she doesn''t seem to be the type like how he described.'' Emily thought while remembering the interview that she watched a few minutes ago.

    ''She is also very beautiful, almost equal to me. How can he be reluctantly epting her?''

    Emily shook her head with disdain.

    ''As expected, a man is a deceitful creature.''

    Though she still has to admire him for having the talent to lie with a straight face. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ''In the end, the top three are from the Aiverson empire. They have quite outstanding talents. They must be quite happy.''

    ''Ah! No, I guess?!''

    Emily thought while looking at Princess Urs in the distance, who had a worried expression on her face. Then at Prince Thomas, whose expression was very extremely ugly.

    "What kind of expression is that? Did he eat shit or something?"

    The Elven Royal Guard beside her sighed, already used to her personality.

    This Royal Guard had been protecting her from a distance since earlier. He was also there when Emily and Luis met at the Ice cream shop. But since Luis didn''t show any hostility towards the princess, he didn''te out.

    Moreover, he had already ascertained Luis'' identity at first nce, so he didn''t attack Luis for disrespecting the princess. Also, it was Princess Emily''s fault.

    However, if the matter had escted, he would have attacked him, regardless.

    Fortunately, it seems everything went better than he had expected. Not only did Princess Emily got acquainted with the heir of the Suarez family. But also had to control her rotten mouth in front of him.

    ''It seems that they will be good friends. Just like Hero Henry and her father, His Majesty the King.''

    ***

    Different from the expressions shown by other people. A green-haired girl sitting in the corner was full of disbelief and confusion.

    ''JUST WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE?!!!''

 Chapter 98 Suarez Familys Future!

    Chapter 98 Suarez Family''s Future!

    Sera''s mind was in a mess, not understanding the situation.

    Before, when she was eliminated, she was a little disappointed that she couldn''t help Alex reach the top. But what surprised her more was when she started watching the broadcast on the screen.

    There was no Alex to be seen even until the very end, and now there was another unknown guy who seemed to be even more powerful than Alicia.

    ''That bitch is acting like a little girl in front of him!''

    ''But never mind that!''

    ''Who is he?! Where did he pop out from?!''

    No matter how much she tried to remember. Sera didn''t have any impression of such a person in her memory.

    So she started searching for his information. She called her butler and, after asking around for a few minutes; she managed to ascertain his identity.

    ''Luis Suarez! The Suarez Family''s heir! Hero Henry''s grandson!''

    ''And!... And!...'' Sera started taking deep breaths when she got this information.

    ''He is the fiance of Alicia Raven!!?''

    ''That bitch had a fiance?! Howe I don''t know anything about that?!''

    From what she remembers, there was no such person named Luis Suarez, who joined the academy. With such a strength he would have never been a transparent person.

    Sera became agitated since things weren''t going ording to her knowledge and her heart set off turbulent waves as a question bugged her mind.

    ''Is this the same world that I know?''

    She couldn''t help but feel a slight chill on her spine.

    Shaking her head, Sera thought, ''No, I can''t be stumped here. After I came back, I already knew that there would be major changes in the future because of my actions.''

    ''I should have expected it.''

    She triedforting herself, thinking that this change was somehow rted to her actions. But no matter how much she tried, her mind couldn''t be at ease.

    ''I have to find out what kind of change made him appear here!''

    ''And what other changes are there in this timeline?''

    With a sharp glint and a serious expression on her face, Sera left the stadium.

    ***

    Inside a private dining room of a popr restaurant. Five people were sitting across the table, eating the variety of dishes ced in front of them silently. This awkward silence caused an unknown tension in the atmosphere.

    Ronald found himself a bit ufortable in this situation. But he couldn''t find a way to remedy the situation between Luis and David. Because he knew that only after Luis exined everything would David be satisfied.

    He looked at David, who was staring at Luis dangerously, not even touching his food.

    Then his eyes shifted to Luis, and a wry smile appeared on his face.

    ''As expected of my son, he has guts made of iron to eatfortably, even in such a situation.''

    He wasn''t worried that David would actually attack Luis. He knows his friend well. Moreover, even though David doesn''t show it. He still cares about Luis.

    ''Hmm, but what should I do? I don''t want this tension to ruin my lunch.'' While Ronald was thoughtful, his eyes met Lumine''s, who seemed to say something from their eye contact.

    After years of living together with his wife, they have quite an understanding of each other. He immediately understood what she meant to say.

    Nodding their heads together, they immediately turned to look at Alicia.

    Yes, they just gave up, leaving Luis and David alone.

    "Alicia, dear, your performance was excellent," Lumine said with a smile. "Your hard work has paid off."

    "Thank you, Aunty," Alicia said while showing a soft smile. Lumine was her teacher and getting her recognition made her heart full of joy.

    Ronald also nodded, showing a satisfied expression and said with a relieved smile, "Now, I don''t have to worry anymore. With Luis and your excellent genes, the future of the next generation of the Suarez family is safe."

    After Ronald''s words fell, the hands eating their food froze and all eyes inside the dining room shifted to Ronald.

    Even the awkward tension between Luis and David disappeared as David''s focus shifted to Ronald.

    Lumine facepalmed, then looked at Ronald with a serious expression.

    "Do you know what you are saying? They are just sixteen!"

    Ronald looked at Lumine with a confused expression and said, "Hmm, what? When did I ask them to have kids now? It will happen eventually. Did I say anything wrong?"

    His cross-question made Lumine thoughtful.

    "Ah, yes, you are right, darling. My mistake."

    She looked at Alicia and said with a smile. "I am also looking forward to that future."

    Alicia''s checks were flushing red. She didn''t expect her praises would end up turning into the talks about her children.

    Even though she knew they were talking about the future. She couldn''t help but feel shy.

    ''My and Luis'' children? No, no, no. How could that be? It''s too soon. Moreover, I have a lot of things that I want to achieve. I can''t have a child this early.''

    ''But if we end up having one early, then what will I do?''

    Though she had to say one thing. Her heart didn''t reject this possibility. ''Maybe it won''t be too bad.''

    ''Hah, what am I thinking?!''

    Embarrassed by her imagination, her eyes turned sideways to look at Luis, who was also looking at her while eating his food.

    When the two of them made eye contact, Luis showed a mischievous grin and winked.

    Alicia lowered her head while trying to calm her heart and suppress that giddy feeling of having butterflies in her stomach.

    David was observing everything with a depressed face.

    ''Here, the matter with this bastard isn''t settled yet and you people are harassing my daughter right in my face.''

    He looked at his daughter, who lowered her head with a shy expression and quietly ate her food as if acquiescing silently.

    David''s fierce eyes turned back to Luis, and this time, he felt even more unbearable in his heart.

    ''It''s this brat who corrupted my daughter.''

    ---

    For the rest of the lunch. Only Ronald and Lumine made some small talk and the rest were silent. Quietly eating their food.

    After the lunch came to an end, David gave a sharp look at Luis, to which he nodded and said.

    "Let''s go back to the hotel first. I''ll exin everything in my room."

    David nodded and didn''t refuse. He knew the topic would not only be about his slight dissatisfaction, but also about some sensitive matters. That matter can''t be discussed publicly.

    ***

    After a quick ride, the five of them returned to the hotel. Inside Luis'' room, they took seats on the chairs and sofa, while Ronald set up a sound barrier inside the room.

    David nodded thinking, it was better for Alicia to know about it first. So she can also decide on how to punish him.

    Luis sighed and said, "Then let me exin."

    "So, now can you start?" David sounded a bit impatient.

    But Alicia on the side stopped him.

    "Before we begin, can anyone exin the situation to me?"

    David nodded thinking, it was better for Alicia to know about it first. So she can also decide on how to punish him.

    Luis sighed and said, "Then let me exin."

    "No need, Luis. Instead of you exining, we can just let Alicia watch everything with her own eyes." Lumine tapped on her mana bracelet and said with a smile. "Lily, show that recording to your Sister Alicia."

    {Okay, Mom.} Lily projected herself as a hologram in the room and then turned on a screen disying the video of Luis'' whole interaction with Emily, Urs, and Thomas.

    Luis'' lips twitched as he looked at Lily and then at Lumine, who was watching Alicia''s changes in expression, while sitting tightly on her seat showing an interesting expression, as if waiting for a great show to start.

    Ronald found Luis staring at Lumine while showing a vengeful expression.

    ''Sorry, my son. Today, even your dad can''t help you out of this situation. This is something you brought upon yourself, so you can only face it head-on.'' He shook his head while sighing.

    When their eyes made contact, Ronald raised his fist, then gave a thumbs up as if cheering him up.

    ''So I''ve been betrayed by both of them.'' Luis shook his head in disappointment. While thinking that human bonds are so fragile.

    ''Let''s just save the situation for now. Thenfort Alicia on tomorrow''s date.''

    He had decided to make his girl happy tomorrow. ''I have to n it well.''

    Alicia, who was watching the recording, had a t expression on her face. The previous shyness had long since disappeared and the surrounding aura chilled.

    She saw how Thomas was killed in one move and Luis'' conversation with Emily and Urs that ended with his pretentious exnation.

    ''So that''s what she meant by Luis identally eliminating that Prince. It was just him pretending.'' Alicia understood, but she didn''t focus on this for long as she had several questions in her mind that she wanted to ask him.

    After the video ended. Alicia''s in eyes looked at Luis, and she said tly with a slight coldness in her tone. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "So this is what you were doing while avoiding me as I was looking around everywhere for you."

 Chapter 99 Explanation!

    Chapter 99 Exnation!

    "Yes!" Luis nodded frankly. Which made Alicia frown.

    "How and when did you and that Elven Princess get to know each other?"

    When Alicia asked this question. All eyes were focused on Luis, waiting for his answer.

    Ronald and Lumine knew that although their father, Henry Suarez, had a friendship with the King of the Elven kingdom, as they were both heroes who fought side by side in the Great War. Luis had never been to any world-ss social events. So it was hard to imagine how he could get to know her.

    But Luis'' answer was quite unexpected to everyone.

    "I only met her for the first time after the ability test was over."

    Ronald and Lumine looked surprised. Because, from Luis'' interaction with the Elven Princess in the test, it didn''t look like they were shortly acquainted.

    David just stood there looking at Luis sharply, waiting for Alicia to deal with him first.

    Alicia''s frown deepened as she asked while folding her hands, "If that is the case, howe the two of you look so familiar with each other?"

    Luis rolled his eyes, thinking, ''From where does it look like we are familiar with each other? She is just being careful around me.''

    After a bit of thought, he said, "Well, it was just a coincidental encounter thatter turned into a deliberate interaction."

    Observing the changes in everyone''s expression. Luis felt exining it was rather troublesome. So he uttered while exhaling a sigh. "Hah, it''s better to just let you see."

    cing a hologram projection device on the table and then tapping on the mana bracelet, he said.

    "Lily, open the video of my interaction with Emily at the Ice cream shop."

    {Core Target Folder! Emily Steve! Permission requested to open the file in the presence of others?}

    "Granted!" Luis said with a t expression. He didn''t have reservations about Lily mentioning something about Core Targets in front of them. Since he was going to exin a few things regarding his n, anyway.

    Luis wasn''t strong enough to deal with everything on his own. He still needs a lot of help from his parents and Alicia''s dad. Even though they have absolute trust in him and will help with his requests, regardless.

    It still was not a good idea to hide his intentions and ns from thempletely. Of course, he won''t reveal anything rted to the game information. He will just give them a vague understanding of everything for now and slowly reveal things in the future when needed.

    For now, the image of the mysterious, intelligent and genius son is enough. If he reveals some information that shouldn''t have been possible for him to ess, then no matter how much they trust him. His actions will still arouse their suspicion and doubts.

    No matter what happens, he could never let them find out that he isn''t the real Luis. Rather an imposter living in their son''s body, impersonating him and living his life.

    ...

    Lily''s words attracted everyone''s attention and aroused their curiosity. They wanted to ask Luis, but the video had already started, so they held back their questions and started watching.

    The video started with Emily''s rude remarks to the Ice cream seller.

    "As expected of the rotten princess. She doesn''t hold back at all. She must have a long list of haters." Ronald said with an amused expression.

    "Dear, although she is a bit too hard on him. I think his Ice cream menu does have some problems." Lumine said with a disgusted expression when she heard the term Booger Ice Cream.

    "Honey, we can''t judge other people''s preferences. Maybe people from other races like that Ice cream," Ronald said while touching the tip of Lumine''s nose.

    "Yes, you are right," Lumine said while squatting away his hand. Then a soft smile appeared on her face.

    The other people in the room pretended to ignore them and focused on the screen. By this time, Luis had already gone up to the counter to order an Ice Cream.

    "Oh, here shees!" Ronald eximed when he saw Emily approaching Luis first. But Emily''s question made the room fall into an awkward silence.

    All eyes looked at Luis for a moment, but no one said anything. After the video ended, everyone understood how Luis dealt with her and the entire situation between them.

    Alicia had already marked Emily as a perverted girl who was mentally sick. Lifting up her head to look at Luis, she said with some relief.

    "So you aren''t interested in her!"

    Luis was dumbfounded for a moment and looked at Alicia speechlessly. "What gave you that impression?!"

    Alicia turned her head away, showing her dissatisfaction, and said, "Well, you didn''t eliminate her and were fawning over her with Miss this and Miss that. So I thought you might be interested in the Elven Princess. It seems I misunderstood?"

    Luis'' lips twitched as he said in aining voice.

    "Of course, it''s a misunderstanding! Why would you even think of that? I already have the most beautiful fiancee I could ever get! Why the hell would I be interested in other girls?!"

    His words were extremely confident without any hesitation, which shows that everything he said was from the bottom of his heart and those were his real feelings.

    Alicia''s heart started thumping faster and all her dissatisfaction from before disappeared. His words ''the most beautiful fiancee'' kept ringing in her mind. Her entire face turned red as she avoided making eye contact with Luis. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She wanted to say something, but no words came out of her mouth. Because she didn''t know what to say at this moment, she had no idea how to ease her embarrassment.

    It''s not the first time she had heard herself being praised in this way, rather she is used to being called beautiful, but when those same words came out of Luis'' mouth along with the word fiancee added to them, they became the happiest sounding words for her that she had ever heard.

 Chapter 100 Impatience!

    Chapter 100 Impatience!

    Ronald looked at Luis with a satisfied smile on his face. ''As expected of my son, he didn''t disappoint me. He knows how to make his girl happy.''

    Lumine was also quite happy, looking at Alicia with a mother-inw smile. Then, with a sly expression, she messaged Lily quietly, instructing her to take pictures of the shy Alicia in secret. ''Hehe, an excellent material obtained. I''ll tease herter by showing these.''

    At this moment, when everyone was showing different expressions. A snort sounded.

    "At least you are aware of your fortune to be engaged to my daughter. I thought you were quite reluctant to ept her."

    David''s mocking voice sounded in the room as he looked at Luis with a wide grin. Although, he wasn''t as angry as before after hearing Luis'' rification.

    He still wanted to make things a bit difficult for him and see whether he can coerce Alicia or not.

    As expected, hearing David''s words, Alicia came out of her daze-like state and her shyness disappeared. She looked at Luis with a questioning re and asked.

    "Why did you state it like that?"

    Everyone knows that Luis was lying in his conversation with Thomas. They all understood it, but they were still dissatisfied.

    "Yeah, Luis. Why do you have to nder your parents, too? We never forced you into your engagement," Ronald said while narrowing his eyes as he looked at Luis.

    "Yes, what your dad said is right. You shouldn''t nder your parents in public, Luis. Now we are like some evil parents, who don''t regard their child''s wishes and forces him." Lumine added on the side.

    Luis looked at the two of them and understood why they had betrayed him before. ''It seems everything is my fault.''

    He could also see that they weren''t really angry at him. Rather, they were just fanning the mes to make the situation more spicy.

    So, ignoring the two of them, Luis eyes shifted to Alicia, who was looking at him with a frown on her face.

    ''I want to try pulling her cheeks.''

    Luis hands were itching, but he calmed himself down, as this wasn''t the right situation.

    ''Now is not the time. Let''s try thatter in tomorrow''s date.''

    With a cough, he started exining.

    *Ahem*

    "So, first I will exin the situation."

    "As Dad, Mom and Uncle David must have noticed that Thomas'' intention was to extract some information from me. This shows that the King has been starting to get wary of us, although it''s just a little for now."

    Alicia showed a surprised expression as she turned to look at the three of them.

    "Yes, what Luis said is right." Ronald nodded seriously.

    "Since they can''t get information from us. So they must be trying to get it out of Luis, who is just a young man with good potential in their eyes." David said while folding his hands.

    Luis also nodded and said, "Yes, from his question, it was obvious that Thomas wanted to know what was going around with our family at the time of Queen''s birthday. Which was around the time of the Raid. Then we ignored the King''s invitation. It must have made him wary, wondering if we had found out that Aunt Maria''s death was rted to him and his son. Or the reason behind her murder."

    He said everything in one breath, then he saw that all of them were looking at him with wide eyes.

    Alicia was the first to question. As she looked at him seriously.

    "What secrets are you talking about?! And was the king also involved in my mother''s death?! How are you so sure?!"

    She asked this because the two of them had discussed it before. At that time, Luis agreed with her conclusion that the king didn''t have to go on such a roundabout way to murder her. He could have done so easily without alerting anyone. Her mother was too weak because of having a broken core and the king was an SS rank Transcendent.

    Luis shook his head and said, "I am not saying the king wanted to kill her directly, but everything must have happened under his acquiesce. Since Uncle David was lured out of the estate because of King''s summon and the timing of the attack was pre-nned. That means he must have helped his son indirectly or revealed information to him."

    When Luis said this, Alicia''s expression was subtle.

    "Of course, there is also a slight possibility that the Crown Prince managed to get the information from the king''s aide without him getting the wind of it. But I find it hard to believe, given his rank."

    Alicia agreed with his words and then asked a little impatiently, "What about the secret behind my mother''s death? Do you know something?''

    Luis was silent for a moment because he knows everything. But it''s not the time to tell her.

    The secret behind her mother''s death is not a simple matter, as it involves the truth behind her origin. That is something Alicia wille across, eventually. If he tells her now, she might just leave everything and go around searching for her mother''s birthce.

    Although he too wants to take her to that ce, it isn''t the right time yet. If she wants to get the maximum gains from there, then she must have strength of at least B or an A rank.

    But that is as it may. When he saw her moist eyes, his heart melted, and he decided to give her a hint.

    "Well, why would you think that the King or the Crown Prince would be interested in killing Aunt Maria? From what we know, uncle David didn''t have any enmity with them before and although the fame of the Ice Phoenix Maria Raven was great, it wasn''t enough to threaten their status."

    "It was a premeditated murder, and they killed everyone inside the manor, leaving Alicia. Why?"

    When Luis asked this, Alicia was thoughtful. But David''s expression was ugly.

    "Because that bastard is interested in Alicia." David said with a grim expression on his face. "A year ago, they proposed an engagement between Alicia and that bastard Orneus. But I refused, saying that her engagement has already been decided when she was a child."

    ***

    Quiz:

    Why do you think Maria Raven was murdered?

    a) Because of Alicia n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    b) Because of her bloodline

    c)Because she knew something that the King wanted to keep hidden.

    d) Other reasons

 Chapter 101 Questions!

    Chapter 101 Questions!

    "Ha, haha," Aliciaughed angrily while facepalming herself and said coldly. "He is my mom''s murderer! I don''t know where he got the courage to make such a ridiculous proposal!"

    She had no idea that something like this had happened. But what surprised her was that everyone else had a calm expression on their faces. ''It seems like they all knew about it.''

    Luis observed Alicia silently, but didn''t say anything about it. He knew that she was just angry and didn''t need hisfort at the moment.

    Looking at David, he nodded and said, "That is one thing, but what it is in Alicia that might have interested them so much?"

    "I agree that she is beautiful and if you get to know her, she is fun to be around. But if he just liked Alicia, he wouldn''t have resorted to killing Aunt Maria. Right?"

    When Luis said this, David''s expression was very solemn.

    "What do you intend to say, Luis?" He asked in a deep voice because even a fool could see something was wrong here. And since Luis was so confident about it. Then he must have found something, right?

    Thinking of this, Ronald, Lumine and Alicia also looked at Luis, showing grave expressions on their faces.

    Luis sped his hands, crossed his fingers, then looked at David seriously and asked. "Uncle David, will you tell us about Aunt Maria''s origin?! Or her real name before she married into the Raven Family!"

    Without breaking his eye contact with Luis, David answered, "She was an orphan. From a vige far south of the Aiverson Empire."

    Luis showed an ''as expected'' expression and asked, "That''s it?"

    "What do you mean?" David''s brows furrowed since he could not understand where Luis was going with this.

    "I mean, did you two never go to visit that said vige after your marriage?" Luis continued asking.

    "Maria''s childhood wasn''t a happy one. That''s why she avoided talking about it. She said that she didn''t want to go back to that ce anymore." David exined as he started reminiscing about his past.

    "Leaving aside the fact that this story sounds very suspicious. I want to ask Mom." Luis turned his head to look at Lumine and asked. "On the day we arrived here, near that oak tree, which you said was Aunt Maria''s favourite spot. Do you remember the words you said?"

    When Luis mentioned the Oak tree, Alicia''s eyes also brightened as she remembered it clearly.

    Then, without waiting for Lumine to speak, Luis repeated those words. "[This tree gives me the motivation to work harder and be stronger so that one day I could go back.] That''s what she said, right?"

    Lumine nodded seriously as she understood that something was very wrong here.

    David''s eyes widened as he looked at Lumine in shock. Because if Lumine''s words were correct, then Maria''s wish was the opposite of what she had told him. ''What''s going on here, Maria?''

    Alicia''s bright eyes turned to Luis as she asked, "If what Dad said is right? Then why would she want to be stronger so that she could return to that ce? Wasn''t it just a vige?"

    Luis nodded at her words and said, "If it was just a normal vige, then the need to be stronger doesn''t sound reasonable. Also, why did she avoid talking about that ce after her marriage? Was it that her strength wasn''t enough? Or there was some other reason behind it?"

    "Maybe she went there in secret? But if her birthce was just a normal vige, there should be no problem taking her husband there. But she didn''t. Rather, she avoided talking about it. She hid her origin from her closest friends and even her husband. Now why would she do that?"

    As Luis asked out his doubts aloud, everyone else also became clear about it. Lumine and Ronald looked at each other with deep shock in their eyes, because they hadn''t noticed these minor details until now. But when Luis pointed it out, many questions started surfacing.

    Davis on the side had a nk look on his face. He seemed to be in a daze. He kept questioning himself. ''Why hadn''t I noticed these things? Why did I brush it off when she avoided talking about her past?''

    Alicia was thoughtful as she rubbed her chin and asked, "Then Luis, do you think the king and the crown prince know about Mom''s origin?"

    She thought that since Luis was exining all this, while pointing out the reason for her mom''s murder. Then it should all be connected. Right? n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Ronald and Lumine heard Alicia''s question and immediately looked at Luis. David also snapped out of his daze and hastily lifted his head, waiting for Luis'' answer.

    Much to everyone''s disappointment, Luis said while shaking his head, "Maybe they do or maybe not."

    Alicia sighed and mumbled, "So you don''t know?"

    Luis nodded and said, "I don''t know if they are clear about her origin or not. But there''s one thing we can be certain of."

    "What is it?" Alicia''s eyes shined as she looked at him in anticipation.

    Luis smiled at her and said, "Before we get to that, let''s clear out a few more things first."

    "They killed Aunt Maria after her mana core was broken and she lost her strength. Why would they do that? Yeah, we can say it was a good opportunity to kill her, but why would they target her when she was already so weak? She wasn''t an obstacle to them anymore. Nor was there any hatred between them."

    When Luis said that, everyone in the room quietly looked at him. Waiting for him to continue.

    "The first reason I can think of is that Aunt Maria found some secrets that they didn''t want anyone to find out. But If that were the case, then they would have tried to eliminate everyone close to her. Afraid that she had kept those secrets with Alicia, they might have killed her too."

    "Since they didn''t kill Alicia, we can assume there was some other reason and something in Alicia that interested them."

 Chapter 102 Depressed David!

    Chapter 102 Depressed David!

    "Of course, there is a chance that the Crown Prince likes Alicia, but let''s opt out of that possibility for now. Since Alicia was just a child back then."

    "Now what else in Alicia can interest them, which is somehow also rted to Aunt Maria''s death?"

    When Luis asked this question, everyone became thoughtful. They all knew the seriousness of this matter. Although whatever conclusion they came to would be based on just some assumptions, they were certain that this would be an important start in exploring all the truths.

    While everyone was contemting, Luis nced at Alicia and said inwardly, ''Although, I said that the Crown Prince wouldn''t have been interested in her child self. But I am certain that the Loli Alicia would have been cute too.''

    Just imagining it, Luis became interested. ''Should I ask for her childhood picturester?''

    ''Hiss! What am I thinking?! Calm down, Luis!''

    Luis sucked in a cold breath and looked at Alicia in grievance while shouting inwardly, ''Someone help! This Charm demoness is corrupting my mind!''

    Alicia, who was thoughtful, became confused since she felt that Luis had shown an angry expression just now. ''Was that my imagination?'' Shaking her head, she didn''t think much about it.

    Ronald nced at Alicia thoughtfully and murmured, "Something in Alicia which is rted to Maria... Hmm... What did she get from her?"

    "She inherited her beauty for sure... since David doesn''t have much to go for with his looks."

    David was in a daze-like state and didn''t even have the mental strength to retort. In his mind, he has been constantly thinking about everything Luis has pointed out.

    Ignoring him, Ronald continued his mumbling. "She has the same element as her... I have to say she inherited her excellent genes."

    Lumine looked at Ronald speechlessly, thinking her gene-obsessed husband once again went back to that topic. She was about to sigh. When suddenly.

    "!"

    Her eyes shifted from Ronald to Luis, and realizing something, she immediately said.

    "Bloodline?!"

    Lumine''s answer attracted everyone''s attention.

    ''Good job, Mom!'' Luis cheered inwardly when he heard Lumine''s answer.

    Ronald looked at her with narrow eyes and said, "But if we remember it correctly, she never awakened her bloodline. Right?"

    Lumine nodded and said, "Yes, she didn''t, but what if her bloodline is rted to her origin? Just like the special type of the Aiverson family."

    Ronald was thoughtful, but shook his head and said, "But the Aiverson bloodline has continued for generations because of the blessing of a scared beast. Unlike our bloodlines, which is a mix of many various bloodlines. How would they know what new bloodline Alicia will have after thebination of David''s and Maria''s bloodlines?"

    "No, you don''t understand. What I meant to say? What if she had a special bloodline that was rted to herplicated origin?" Lumine questioned, looking at Ronald seriously. While in her mind, she was thinking.

    ''I have seen a lot of simr dramas before.''

    ''I can''t believe my best friend would hide something so interesting from me.''

    If Maria were alive, she would have pinched her cheeks for sure.

    Ronald was stumped for a moment. He was certain that Lumine must be thinking about some weird drama plot. In the end, he sighed, shaking his head helplessly.

    Luis looked at everyone and said, "Well, although it''s just a spection. We can''t ignore this possibility."

    "With this, we can have a direction in exploring her murder''s secret."

    When he said that, everyone nodded in approval. Yes, blindly looking for leads will get them nowhere. They sure could try to get the answers from the king, but first of all, they weren''t certain if he knew about it. Then secondly, even if he knew, why he would tell them? Now that their rtionship is also quite stressful.

    *Sigh*

    Ronald sighed and uttered. "If what Lumine guessed is true, I can''t imagine howplicated Maria''s past would be."

    "Oww! Ouch! What was that for?!" Ronald frowned at Lumine, wondering why she pinched his waist so hard.

    Lumine ignored hisints and pointed sideways.

    Though confused, Ronald still turned to look in the direction she was pointing. Then he was shocked to see that David''s condition was very bad at that moment.

    His face was very pale, as if he had lost all his blood. His eyes were hollow, staring at the floor without emotion.

    When they discussed the past, he started remembering all his happy moments with his wife, but as he remembered her smile, his heart started aching, thinking that he didn''t really know anything about her.

    "Was I not a qualified husband for her?!" He mumbled in confusion.

    Just thinking that he didn''t know anything about his wife''s troubles and burdens even after her death, David couldn''t help but fall into self-me and loathe himself for not caring for her enough.

    Everyone in the room could see the changes in David''s expression and pretty much guess his mentality.

    Ronald felt sad looking at his friend''s depressed state, but he couldn''t find any words tofort him. His pleading eyes turned to look at Lumine, hoping she could help.

    Lumine nodded at Ronald and then looked at David and said, "David, you don''t have to me yourself. Maria was really happy with you. She loved you a lot."

    David''s sad eyes turned to look at Lumine as he asked self-depreciatingly, "Then why did she hide her troubles from me? Did she give up on her wishes because of me? Or she couldn''t trust me enough? Maybe we could have found a way together and solve everything." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    When David asked those questions, Lumine couldn''t say anything, so she pursed her lips and looked at him sadly.

    Luis wasn''t sure if he was in any position tofort his father-inw but when he saw Alicia, who was looking at her father with concern. He bit his lips, then stepped forward with a sigh.

    ''Luis?'' Alicia was about to say something, but when she saw Luis stepping forward, she stopped.

    By this time, Alicia wasn''t aware, but subconsciously she had started to depend on Luis. He had be a person whom she could trust and rely on with all her heart.

    There was a firm belief in her heart that Luis might be able to help her dad out of his depression.

 Chapter 103 Fear of Losing What You Love!

    Chapter 103 Fear of Losing What You Love!

    "Uncle David!" Luis called out.

    "I was such a bad husband, Luis. I never figured out such important details and was always in the dark." David murmured without looking into his eyes.

    Luis sighed and said, "Uncle David, you shouldn''t me yourself. I don''t know how you and Aunt Maria were with each other. But from what I have known and observed from your character, I can be certain that you were a loving and responsible husband to her."

    "Luis...?" David''s eyes trembled as he looked up.

    Luis could see that his words had little effect on David, so he continued. "Do you think all those memories you made with her were fake?"

    When Luis asked this question, David thought back to his years with Maria. Her smile, her anger, all the emotions she showed. He knew that none of them were fake. But still.

    "Why didn''t she ever tell me about her past?"

    This is the why David felt heartbroken. Because he couldn''t figure out why would Maria hide her troubles from him? Didn''t she trust him?

    Luis sighed as he understood David''s thoughts. But it was because he understood that he had to correct his views.

    Looking at him seriously, he called out once again. "Uncle, David!" When Luis saw David''s attention was back on him, he said.

    "There are times in life when people tend to hide things from their closest people or even their most loved person... It''s not because they don''t trust them, but because they don''t want to show that side of theirs to anyone else."

    After exhaling a deep breath, Luis said in a low voice. "They hide, not because they don''t love them. Rather, they fear losing what they love."

    "..."

    Because of Luis'' words, the entire room fell into silence. Ronald and Lumine were looking at Luis expressionlessly. Inwardly, they also agreed with his words.

    Although they would like to say that in a happy and trustworthy rtionship, there should be no secrets. Sometimes, some situations don''t allow them to share their troubles.

    But this is also true that, because of such behaviour, the other person who is in the dark may end up getting hurt. Just like what happened with David.

    Alicia was looking at her dad and Luis with a t expression. But inwardly, she was very much concerned about them. Especially after seeing Luis'' mncholic expression, it made Alicia''s heart tighten.

    ''Why does Luis look so sad?''

    She wanted to ask him but before she could. Luis took a deep breath, then his expression returned to that of a serious one as he said.

    "So stop thinking about these things, Uncle David!"

    "Aunt Maria must have had her reasons for hiding those things and if you want to know why she hid her problems from you, then first figure out what her problems were?!"

    When Luis said this, the lost color in David''s face returned.

    "Figure out her problem first...?!" David murmured, repeating his words. Then there was a glint in his eyes and his mood improved.

    "Yes Luis, you are right!"

    "Maria had always been a perfect wife to me. Much more than what I deserved."

    "Although she hid her origin from me. It doesn''t change the fact how much we loved each other."

    David said with a smile. Then, clenching his fists tightly, he continued. "Whatever her secrets were, I''ll get my answers, eventually. As for her murderers, I''ll be sure to send them to hell."

    His words echoed loudly and clearly inside the room. Alicia had a soft smile on her face, as she saw her father had cheered up. ncing at Luis from the corner of her eyes, she decided inwardly. ''I should thank him on our date tomorrow.''

    "I''m ashamed to show my shameful side to you all," David said with a sigh while rubbing the back of his head.

    "Hey, it''s fine. You have told me a lot about your shameful incidents when you were drunk." Ronald said, while patting his shoulder.

    "Wait, what?! What did I say?!" David asked, looking at Ronald with wide eyes.

    "I''ll tell you about it sometime."

    Ronald had a relieved smile on his face when he saw that David had returned to his usual self.

    Lumine sighed, ''Fortunately, Luis saved the situation, otherwise I don''t know how long he would have been in his depressed state.''

    Hoisting her head to look at everyone sitting silently, she said, "Okay, now let''s get back to the topic."

    Turning her head to Luis, she asked while narrowing her eyes, "Luis, tell us what you are nning to do with Thomas and the Elven Princess. And what is the Core Target folder that Lily mentioned?"

    When Lumine asked this question, everyone''s attention was back to Luis. Because this is where the important discussion begins.

    David, who had cheered up, was also looking at him seriously, waiting for his exnation.

    Luis nodded at Lumine, then started speaking, "Okay, then I''ll first exin what these Core Targets are. They are the students in the academy who will be my target of monitoring."

    "Monitoring?" Ronald raised his left brow and asked, "Who are these students you said and why are you interested in them?"

    Luis looked at Ronald and said, while recounting some names. "Well, there are Rura Wayne, Seraphina Evansville, Emily Steve, Thomas Aiverson and Urs Aiverson. I''ll add others if needed." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Of course, there were others too, such as Alex and the other female leads, but Luis didn''t include them since he had no exnation for his reason for monitoring them.

    Alicia gave a sullen look when she heard Luis mention the names of so many girls. ''He better have a good reason for it! Or else, hmph!''

    Ronald was a little thoughtful as he asked, "Are Rura Wayne and Seraphina Evansville included, because of the rights of the dungeons you are interested in?"

    Luis nodded and admitted, "Yes, although because of the situation with Rura Wayne in her family. It would be a bit difficult for her. I have some thoughts about it. As long as I have enough means, I can get them to give us those dungeon rights."

    "Are those dungeons that important?" Ronald asked curiously. He had information about all the dungeons Luis wanted and that''s why he wasn''t sure why Luis was so hell-bent on getting them. Although some of them had good resources. They weren''t much different from other dungeons.

    Luis can understand Ronald''s thoughts and knows that his father is going so far to spend so much money only because of his trust and love in himself. Normally, without any credibility, no one is willing to make such an investment.

    But for Luis, those dungeons are very important. Giving a firm look at Ronald, he assured. "Dad, trust me on this!"

    Ronald smiled at Luis and said, "I trust you, Luis." While thinking inwardly. ''Even if it ends up with nothing. It doesn''t matter. As long as you are happy.''

    Lumine had a small smirk on her face and, while giving a side nce at Alicia, she teased, "But Luis, for you to target those girls with ill intentions. Don''t you think someone will be jealous?"

    Luis looked at his mother with a deadpan expression. ''Do I have ill intentions or you?''

    "I don''t have any ill intentions. It''s just finding opportunities to make a deal."

    "Oh, really?" Lumine smirked and said, "But is it alright to stalk young women for making business deals?"

    Luis nced at Alicia, who had a small frown on her face, and said, "I won''t be looking at them. Lily will do these things. She will only report to me if she finds anything relevant or useful."

    When Alicia heard this, the frown on her face disappeared at a visible rate and she returned to her in expression.

    Seeing this, Luis sighed in relief and gave Lumine an angry look. But she just chuckled and didn''t take his actions to heart.

    Ronald shook his head at Lumine''s behaviour, then brought back the conversation on topic.

    "Now let''s talk about the prince and the two princesses. If they are your target, then the matter shouldn''t be simple, right?"

    Luis'' attention was back to Ronald as he nodded heavily. "For Thomas and Urs, I think there''s no need for me to exin."

    Everyone nodded in understanding and waited for him to continue.

    "As for Emily Steve, she is an important part of the n."

    Seeing that everyone was looking at him attentively. Luis exined.

    "The reason is simple, for us to face the Aiverson Royal Family. I believe it''s better if we have the help of the Esperia Kingdom."

    But as soon as Luis said that, everyone stood up in surprise.

    "What are you saying, Luis?!" David asked aloud.

    "If the fight involves two countries, won''t it end up developing into another war?" Alicia also nodded and asked with a frown. She doesn''t want a war to start because of them. Although she wants revenge, but not at the cost of so many innocent lives.

 Chapter 104 Plans!

    Chapter 104 ns!

    Alicia was staring at Luis with a firm expression on her face. No matter what reason Luis gives, she wouldn''t let him start a war between the two countries. Because the war will affect the lives of hundreds of millions of people. That kind of bloodshed is something she doesn''t want to see.

    Luis looked at them with a t expression and said, "Can everyone calm down first? I never said anything about starting a war."

    When everyone heard his words of assurance, they weren''tpletely relieved, but still sat back in their seats while waiting for him to continue.

    Seeing that everyone had calmed down, Luis said. "As everyone should be clear, even if we want to kill the King and the Crown Prince, this matter is not as simple as it seems." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "First is their strength. The King is a Transcendent (SS) Rank individual and the Crown Prince is an Overlord (S) Rank. Then, there are more than a dozen powerhouses under them, among those the majority of which are all Overlord (S) Rank individuals and the other few are King (A) Rank."

    "Let''s not count the Royal Family''s military strength. Since we are not a match in numbers. Nor do we intend to go on a full-fledged war with them."

    "Then there is the position they hold. They are the Royal Family of the Aiverson Empire, ruling this empire since its founding. If we dere a fight with them. Then, whatever the reason we have, it will be counted as a coup d''��tat."

    "Even if we somehow get a win over them, the country will end up in turmoil. Lawbreakers will start making chaos and the neighbouring countries may try taking advantage of the chaos to take over this country."

    "And what I am pointing out is just a few of these things. There are many other factors involved."

    Ronald, David and Lumine were silently observing Luis. While also satisfied in their hearts that Luis thought of all these things without being impulsive. They probably knew about these matters much more than him. That is also the reason they haven''t attacked the Aiverson Royal Family yet.

    Alicia stared at Luis with a deep frown and asked, "Then what are we going to do, Luis? Can''t we just try assassinating the King and the Crown Prince without being discovered?"

    Luis shook his head and said, "Don''t be na?ve, Alicia! First of all, we need to have strength far stronger than theirs to assassinate them without being discovered."

    "Unless Grandpaes back or we have an SS or SSS rank with us, we can''t count on the assassination n."

    "Even if we somehow manage to kill the Crown Prince first, we will have to be prepared for the counterattack from the King."

    "So we can''t target Orneus Aiverson unless we are sure to take on the King at the same time."

    When Luis pointed out these things, Alicia''s expression became solemn. She was just thinking about how to get her revenge and neglected such important details. She understood that she was in the wrong here. ''I should calm down and straighten out my thoughts!''

    "Since you know all this, then what do you have in mind, Luis?" When Ronald asked this question. Luis was a little thoughtful, then he said with a soft sigh.

    "Well, we can''t tear our faces from them for the time being. Let''s not make the king further wary of us. Or else he might decide to take action."

    Ronald nodded, agreeing with his words, and asked. "Okay, since that''s settled. Tell us what you meant by involving the Esperia Kingdom?"

    "As I stated earlier, there are a lot of factors which put us at a disadvantage if we face the Aiverson Royal Family."

    "Whether it''s influence or power. We are no match for them. But if we can get the help of the Esperia Kingdom, we can find many opportunities to quietly limit the Aiverson Royal Family''s influence over the empire."

    "How are you going to do that?" David asked in bewilderment.

    "I''ll do something about it, Uncle David. Don''t worry." Luis said with a smile, not intending to exin further.

    David doesn''t know why, but in his heart, there was a feeling that was telling him to believe in Luis. ''This brat, just where does his confidencee from?''

    Luis turned to look at Ronald and Lumine, as he said, "I''ll use Emily as a link to control the Elven Royal Family."

    Everyone looked at Luis in bewilderment.

    "C-Control...?! You said?!" Ronald asked aloud, not believing his ears.

    "Well, maybe the control word is too much. Let''s just say they will kindly help us." Luis uttered thoughtfully.

    But even if he corrected himself, no one could get the control word out of their mind. They didn''t question how Luis was going to achieve that, rather they somehow got a chill thinking that he was going to do something dangerous to the Elven Royal Family.

    "Luis, are you going to do something bad?" Alicia asked straightforwardly.

    "Hm? No way! Am I that kind of person? You should trust me more." Luis said with a handsome smile. But Alicia still found it hard to believe.

    "The Elven King is also an SSS rank individual who fought side by side with Grandpa. If I remember correctly, they are also excellent friends."

    Luis said while ncing at Ronald, who nodded in agreement. Seeing this, Luis continued speaking.

    "After Grandpa, we didn''t have much of a rtionship with them. So in Grandpa''s absence, the Suarez Family doesn''t have anything to do with the Elven Royal Family."

    After a pause, Luis said.

    "But what if the Elven Royal Family decides to be our backer?"

    When Luis asked this question, everyone looked at him with wide eyes and surprised expressions.

    "Is that even possible?" Lumine mumbled in disbelief.

    "It doesn''t matter if it''s possible or not. We have to do it." Luis said firmly.

    "Um, Luis, will it be alright if the Elven Royal Family bes our backer openly?"

 Chapter 105 Issues!

    Chapter 105 Issues!

    "Um, Luis, will it be alright if the Elven Royal Family bes our backer openly?" Alicia asked with a frown. If a country supports a major family from another country, won''t it cause national issues?

    Luis understood her concerns and exined.

    "Even if the Esperia Kingdom supports us, it won''t be counted as treason, given the rtionship between Grandpa and the Elven Hero King."

    Alicia nodded in understanding, but David looked at Luis with a frown and said.

    "We can think about those matters after the Esperia Kingdom decides to support us."

    Then, with a stern expression, he continued.

    "Although I don''t know where your confidencees from. But remember Luis, what you intend to do is not a simple matter. Also, no matter your potential, you are only an E rank for now. You can''t even be counted as a low-rank fighting power of these major forces you are nning to control."

    "So don''t overestimate yourself and first focus on bing stronger."

    When David said those words, Ronald and Lumine were sitting quietly, with no intention of speaking out. Because they knew what he said was correct.

    Luis was indeed too weak at the moment. If not for their trust in him, what he said would only be considered as his lofty ideals.

    David turned to look at Alicia and warned.

    "You too! Remember your current strength! Don''t think about revenge unless you have the strength to take it with your own hands!" n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    At this moment, Alicia once again understood how insignificant her strength waspared to her ideals, and her desire to be stronger burned even more intensely.

    Luis understood David''s thoughts and wasn''t upset in the slightest. With a smile on his face, he said, "Don''t worry, Uncle David, everything I said just now is a long-term n. I don''t intend to take any risks until I''mpletely sure about it."

    After a moment, David nodded and said. "If you understand, I''m relieved."

    Looking at everyone who was in their thoughts. Luis gave a soft smile while signing inwardly.

    ''Phew~ after leading the conversation in many different directions, I finally managed to make them forget about my talk regarding Alicia with Thomas.''

    ''Fortunately, everything went as I wanted. When I talked about Aunt Maria while trying to make them interested in her origin. I was worried for a second. Because in her statement, she never said that the ce she wanted to return was her home. Thankfully, no one pointed it out.''

    ''Well, it''s not like I was lying. Since it is the truth, but if they had asked that question. It might have made things more difficult to exin.''

    Just when Luis was sighing in relief.

    *p*

    A p sounded, and then the next moment Lumine''s words sounded in his ears like a heavy hammer falling on his peaceful heart.

    "Okay, since all theplicated talk is over. We can end today''s family meeting with thest question."

    Giving Luis a wide grin, Lumine uttered the question he least wanted to hear.

    "Why did Luis say those lies about Alicia in front of Thomas?"

    Alicia wasn''t in the mood to discuss these things anymore. But since her mother-inw had already brought up the topic, she decided to cooperate with her.

    Giving Luis a dissatisfied look, she snorted and turned her head away as if angry at him.

    ''Hey, at least try to be sincere when you act. It''s too deliberate to make people believe in you.''

    He has a Performer Talent. Can''t he see her obvious amateurish performance?

    ''But still Mom, what kind of resentments do you have with me to give me these headaches?''

    When he looked at Lumine, Luis immediately rolled his eyes. Because she was looking at them with an excited expression on her face.

    ''Ah well, it seems there''s no resentment. She is just interested in the drama.''

    Ronald sighed, shaking his head at Lumine''s behaviour of lighting the fire.

    David didn''t intend to be involved anymore. In today''s conversation, he had many ups and downs. Moreover, Luis helped him with his words when he was depressed.

    Even if he tried, he couldn''t get angry at him today. But only have feelings of gratefulness.

    ''Sigh, whatever, let''s just let the kids settle it among themselves for today.''

    ''Anyway, it''s not like Alicia can keep her pretence anger for long.''

    David knew that Luis would somehow ease Alicia''s emotions. So he wasn''t worried about them.

    ...

    Under everyone''s curious eyes and Alicia''s dissatisfied eyes. Luis stood up from his seat and calmly walked towards Alicia.

    Then, before Alicia had the time to be surprised, Luis immediately picked her up and brought her into his embrace.

    "Wh-What are you doing?!"

    The three adults were witnessing everything with their mouths hanging wide.

    Alicia was about to use her strength to push him when Luis'' gentle words sounded in her right ear.

    "Are you angry with me, Alicia?"

    "O-Of course, WHY WON''T I BE?!"

    Feeling his hot breath tickling her ear, Alicia shuttered, suppressing her flustered heart and shouted as if showing her anger.

    Unfortunately, her attempts failed. Since everyone understood from her reaction that Alicia had faltered.

    "Oh? Is that so?" Luis'' voice sounded, and his tone was a bit depressed.

    Hearing his sad tone, Alicia thought that she might have been a little too hard on him. So she immediately asked in a low voice, trying to be as soft as possible. "Why did you have to say those lies in front of everyone?"

    "Hmm?" Luis showed a confused look and uttered, "But it wasn''t aplete lie, though."

    His words shocked not only Alicia, but everyone else in the room. But before they could say anything. Luis continued.

    "I''ve already told you before, Alicia. Half of what I said was indeed a lie. It''s a lie that I reluctantly epted you."

    "But the other half of what I said was my imagination, since that is something only you can answer. Though I do wish for it to be real."

    Looking into her eyes with a bright smile, he asked.

    "I wonder if my fiancee is madly in love with me?!"

 Chapter 106 Alicias Hesitation?!

    Chapter 106 Alicia''s Hesitation?!

    Alicia''s pretty face was covered in a tint of a red hue. Her eyshes fluttered as she avoided making eye contact with him.

    ''Wh-What should I do?!''

    ''I can''t say no! Otherwise, he might get hurt.''

    She wouldn''t admit that in her heart she didn''t want to deny it, either.

    ''But, I also can''t say yes!''

    That''s too embarrassing for her.

    After thinking for a moment, Alicia used her strength to push Luis away and escape from his embrace.

    Her flustered heart was already beating fast, but she showed an angry expression and shouted. "D-Don''t try to change the topic! Just answer my question!"

    Everyone watched Alicia''s performance with amused expressions on their faces.

    Lumine held herself back from chuckling. ''Hehe, he is changing the topic or you are avoiding his question?''

    Away from his embrace, Alicia''s racing heart slowly calmed down and, as she regained herposure, she looked at Luis with a frown. Expressing how ''angry'' she was!

    Luis signed, thinking, ''Alicia''s coercing strategy failed. I guess I can only hope to get some good results with tomorrow''s date.''

    Nodding his head, Luis said, "Okay, fine. I admit. I was bragging."

    Seeing Luis admitting it, the three adults were surprised. Thinking, will the drama end early? Lumine was a bit disappointed and Ronald looked at Luis with furrowed brows, ''Hmm, even after inheriting my genes, Luis still can''t handle this situation.''

    David looked at Alicia and showed a relieved smile. ''It seems my daughter isn''t fully corrupted yet.'' n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Alicia took on a haughty pose, seemingly happy that she had got a win over him. Just as she was just about to say something, Luis'' next words stopped her.

    "But even if I bragged a little. It''s not my fault."

    "What?" Alicia frowned, not expecting him to say something like that.

    Luis nodded and said, "Well, who wouldn''t want to brag and show off a little when they have such a goddess-tier fiancee?"

    Then, showing a confident expression, he continued. "So, what I did waspletely excusable!"

    Lumine was dumbfounded. She didn''t expect Luis to turn the tables suddenly. While being shameless, he also praised her at the same time andpletely whitewashed himself as innocent.

    Ronald and David were shocked and couldn''t help but admire him in their hearts.

    Alicia pouted, aware of what Luis was trying to do. But because of his constant praises, she was having a hard time being angry at him.

    In the end, she sighed and said with a t expression. "Whatever, I don''t care anymore."

    Since the drama was over, and nothing interesting was left to see here. Ronald lifted the sound barrier and, along with Lumine, left the room. Saying that he wanted to rest.

    David left after them while giving another sharp nce at Luis and Alicia.

    Luis looked at David''s leaving back wryly. ''What was that look for?! I am not doing anything to your daughter, okay? No need to warn me like that!''

    Just when he thought of that, he instantly remembered his actions just now.

    ''Uh, maybe I teased her a bit too much in front of them. So I guess it''s normal that he is upset.''

    Shaking his head, Luis turned to look at Alicia. Who, for some reason, hadn''t left yet and was the only person left other than him in this room.

    "Um, Alicia, aren''t you going? Or do you want to stay with me a little more?"

    "Luis," Alicia called out in a low voice.

    Luis raised one of his eyebrows when he saw Alicia''s serious expression. ''What''s up with her?''

    "What happened, Alicia?" He asked while knitting his brows, not teasing her anymore.

    Her blue eyes stared at him expressionlessly. She opened her mouth to say something, but then she hesitated and retracted back.

    "See youter!" With those words, she left the room.

    Seeing her leave, Luis mumbled in confusion, "What''s wrong with her?"

    He could see that she wanted to say something, but hesitated. Although he was curious to know what was up with her, since she had already left, it was not a good idea to ask her now.

    ''I''ll try asking her at tomorrow''s date.''

    ''Wait! The date isn''t cancelled, right?!''

    Thinking of this, he hastily sent her a message. To which he got a reply within a few seconds.

    [Time?]

    "Hmm, after breakfast!"

    [Okay!]

    ---

    "Well, that''s done."

    Luis mumbled, then sighed, slumping on his bed.

    "Finally over. Everyone kept asking so many questions that I felt like I was on a trial."

    With closed eyes, he gradually slowed down his breathing. After concentrating for a moment, he mumbled.

    ''I feel like I am ready for the breakthrough.''

    ***

    As he expected, his battle with Alicia helped him trigger his chance to break through. ''Now I can finally enter the Order Rank!''

    Without wasting any time. Luis used his spatial magic.

    "Pocket Space!"

    Then, through the purple vortex, he instantly went inside his pocket space.

    ***

    When Luis opened his eyes, he found himself in a white room, with 200 cubic meters in size.

    In one corner of the room, he saw many items, kept in an organized manner.

    "I don''t know how much the size of my Pocket Space will increase once I break through to Order Rank," Luis uttered, with some expectations.

    Then Luis took out some items and started drawing a magic formation on the white ground.

    It was the same magic formation that he had in the mana training room of the Suarez family estate.

    With his Sorcery Talent, it wasn''t difficult for him to draw it. Then he took out a lot of mana stones and some other materials to activate the Magic Formation.

    "Finally done!"

    Though the process was simple for him. It still took him more than an hour to prepare everything.

    After a test, Luis was certain that the formation was working properly. So he went and took out a lot of herbs, pills, and elixirs. Then ced them at the centre of the formation.

    After that, he finally brought out the important items for today''s breakthrough.

 Chapter 107 Order Rank!

    Chapter 107 Order Rank!

    The Giant Skeleton''s core.

    Akasha''s ne. Filled with a lot of Ghost energy.

    A lot of Morra Leaves, in the hopes of awakening his bloodline, and finally a pill made of a dozen Durgid Roots.

    "All the best, me!" Cheering himself up, Luis took off his shirt and wore Akasha''s ne, then he activated the Magic Formation and sat at the centre of the formation.

    As soon as the formation was activated, it started extracting a huge amount of mana from the tons of Mana stones that he had prepared. Then, after refining it, all the refined mana was released, concentrating on the centre.

    Luis'' mana breathing was working actively, as all the pores in his body were constantly absorbing the mana from around him.

    Slowly, his body started heating up, and he started sweating.

    After a few breaths, Luis started his intake of all the resources that he had prepared.

    Starting from herbs, along with Morra leaves, he ate them all one by one. Then, while drinking the elixirs, he also ate the pills.

    As time passed, he ingested more and more and his skin turned red from the intense heat in his body.

    Luis knew that his body was urging him to break through. But, gritting his teeth, he still suppressed himself.

    ''I haven''t used thest item yet!''

    Holding the Giant Skeleton''s Core in his hand. Luis actively used his Akasha''s ne to refine the energy inside the core and transmit it to him.

    The next moment, green energy swirled around Luis, and then, along with the concentration of blue mana, a spiral tornado enveloped him.

    "AAHHHH!" Luis screamed because the massive energy had started tearing his body, bringing immense pain. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    But Luis still didn''t lose his concentration and kept himself focused on the breakthrough.

    ''Just a little more!''

    ''It''s almost over!''

    While reminding himself in his mind. Luis focused on his mana core.

    His Enhanced Recovery slowly healed his wounds as he gained control over the energy tornado surrounding him.

    Then as soon as he got it under control he rxed himself, no more suppressing the raging energy and letting it flow inside him, through the mana channels and circting all over his body.

    He focused on his mana core, which was now full of cracks because of the influx of immense energy. But with his control, the energy condensed a new and even stronger mana core inside it.

    The outer shell of the mana core was shattered into the particles of energy.

    The energy nourished his blood vessels, muscles, nerves, and bones and strengthened his mana channels.

    ---

    Finally, after another hour, Luis opened his eyes, and an excited smile appeared on his face.

    "Finally, D-Rank!"

    Feeling the surging power inside his body, Luis was certain that his physical strength was far stronger than any other D rank of the same level. Of course, not counting some other humanoid species who are specialized in physiques and have an innate advantage in that.

    Luis checked his mana core, and feeling his quantity and purity of mana, an excited expression appeared on his face.

    "This is great!"

    He stood up on his feet and was about to tap on his mana bracelet. But feeling the sweat on his body, he decided to take a bath first and change his clothes before checking his status.

    Coming out of the Pocket Space, inside his hotel room. Luis immediately went to the bathroom to take a shower and dip his body clean.

    ***

    After half an hour, he was back sitting on his bed with a new set of clothes. Then he tapped on his mana bracelet and said.

    "Lily, open my status panel for me."

    {Okay~} Lily''s voice sounded and the next moment, a hologram screen appeared in front of him, presenting his status.

    ***

    [Name] : Luis Suarez

    [Race] : Human

    [Age] : 16

    [Rank] : Order rank ������ (D)

    [Affinity] : Lightning (Hidden : Space)

    [Talent Awakened] : Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent] : Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique] : None

    [Bloodline] : Unawakened

    [Titles] : Challenger

    [Skills] : Perception (Growth Type), Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D)

    [Techniques] : Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Intermediate ������)

    [Mana Core] : Rank C

    ***

    "Order Rank, one star." Luis looked at his rank and sighed with a smile. ''This is great, finally another step towards my goal.''

    After being happy for a few seconds. He continued reading the rest of the information.

    When he looked at the bloodline section. He couldn''t help but be disappointed.

    ''Even after using so many Morra leaves, I couldn''t see the slight possibility of awakening.''

    ''Just when will my bloodline awaken?'' Luis didn''t know why, but he had a feeling that his bloodline awakening would give him a major boost in strength. After a sigh, he decided to stop thinking about it for now.

    ''Whatever, let''s try again next time when I break through to Expert Rank.''

    For the rest of the status, there was no change until he reached the Techniques section.

    "Hmm, so my mastery of Grandpa''s breathing method has reached the Intermediate level. Well, this is good," Luis mumbled with a smile, then he nodded with satisfaction as his eyes fell on the Mana Core section.

    "Hehe, no wonder I felt my mana became so much purer and had such an enormous increase in quantity. From Mana Core Rank (D+), I directly entered Rank (C), skipping Rank (C-)."

    "Now I can perform various new spells that I couldn''t before, because of theck of mana reserves."

    "Well, this growth should have been obvious considering the treasures I used for this breakthrough."

    His hands were itching to try out his new strength. But he calmed his excitement down and decided to rest first.

    "I will ask Mom to practice with me inside the pocket space before dinner."

    Thinking of Pocket Space, Luis wondered just how much it would have increased in size when he will cast that spell this time.

    ''Probably 500 cubic meters? I hope it''s more.''

    With an excited smile on his face, Luis finally fell into a deep sleep. Rxing his mind from all the exhaustion from the exam and the family meeting.

 Chapter 108 Disturbing Parents!

    Chapter 108 Disturbing Parents!

    Waking up a few hourster, Luis went to look for his mother.

    Arriving in front of the room where his parents were staying. Luis knocked.

    *Knock* *Knock* n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    *ck*

    A few secondster, the door opened and the figure of a silver-haired woman appeared in his sight.

    "Oh, what is it, Luis? There''s still time before dinner, right?" Lumine asked in her usual tone. But Luis could feel the slight impatience and irritation behind her words.

    ''What''s up with her?''

    Confused by her behaviour, Luis observed her with scrutiny. Then he saw the slight blush on her cheeks and came to a sudden realization.

    ''Ah! I get it! When Dad said he wanted to rest, I thought in the literal sense. It seems that he still had quite some energy to ''workout''.''

    Actingpletely oblivious, Luis looked at her seriously and said, while shaking his head, "No, I didn''te to call you for dinner. I need your help with something."

    When Lumine saw Luis'' serious look, she hesitated and asked, "Is it something important?"

    Before Luis could answer, Ronald, who appeared next to Lumine, and asked with a frown on his face. "What do you want, Luis?"

    Luis could see that Ronald was breathing a little heavily. Of course, he knew the reason behind it. But didn''t care much and acted innocent. Instead of exining, he directly released some of his mana.

    Lumine and Ronald''s eyes widened with surprise and happiness.

    "You entered the Order rank?!" they said in unison.

    Seeing Luis nod in affirmation, they were both excited, but a momentter Ronald calmed down and said with a frown on his face. "Although it''s something to celebrate about, there was no need to rush up to tell us the news."

    Yeah, just a few minutester, and it should have been fine.

    Luis shook his and said, "I broke through in the evening. So I didn''t rush exactly."

    Ronald''s eyes were slightly hot as he said. "Then you could have waited a little more. We could have talked about it at the dinner."

    "No, sharing this news is just one of the reasons I came here," Luis said, then he looked at Lumine and continued, "Mom, I want to try out my current strength. Let''s have a practice match before dinner."

    09:57

    "No, sharing this news is just one of the reasons I came here," Luis said, then he looked at Lumine and continued, "Mom, I want to try out my current strength. Let''s have a practice match before dinner."

    Realizing his intentions, Lumine sighed. Now that they were interrupted, she didn''t feel like continuing anymore and decided to ept his request. "I''ll go change into my training suit."

    Taking out her training suit from her mana bracelet, she went to the bathroom to change. Her training suit didn''t have the automatic wear function like her battle suit. So she had to change it manually.

    Ronald felt a little frustrated as he red at Luis.

    Luis blinked his eyes innocently and asked, "Dad, didn''t you have enough rest? Why do you look so tired?"

    Ronald wanted to say something, but closed his mouth a momentter. He didn''t know whether Luis was being honest or pretending. He couldn''t see through him. ''Why do his words sound like sarcasm?''

    Showing a dignified expression on his face, he said, "I''m not tired, just had some important work to do. So I didn''t get much rest."

    "Oh, I see." Nodding while showing an innocent look, Luis snickered in his heart. ''You seem frustrated, Dad. But this is what you get for your betrayal before.''

    ''You were enjoying the drama before, so how can I let you have your fun?''

    Luis thought somewhat darkly. Although it was coincidental that he arrived at the wrong time, he didn''t mind letting his mom and dad suffer a little.

    By this time, Lumine had already changed her clothes ande out. Next, Luis also took out his training clothes to go in and change.

    Although they were curious about why Luis wasn''t using his battle suit. They didn''t ask and waited.

    When he came out, Lumine said, "Then let''s go and rent a private training ground. I remember this hotel also has one."

    Seeing that, Lumine and Ronald were about to leave. Luis immediately stopped them. "Wait!"

    "Hm?" They turned back in confusion.

    Luis used his pocket space spell and a purple vortex huge enough for an average adult human to enter it appeared in the room.

    "I have a better ce, right here."

    Hearing Luis'' words, Lumine and Ronald looked at the vortex in front of them with interest. The two of them were quite familiar with this vortex, since they had seen Luis use this spell many times before. But now, when they saw the vortex and heard Luis'' words, they felt that this spell seemed quite different from their impressions of it.

    A momentter, the three of them entered the vortex without hesitation.

    When they opened their eyes, they found themselves in arge white space.

    Luis looked around and was surprised inwardly. ''I didn''t expect the size to increase to 2000 cubic meters. It''s a ten times increase again.''

    ''Well, this is great. Now I have a great ce to train my Spatial and Illusion magic while I am at the academy.''

    ''I think I can do my research here, too. I should shift myb here.''

    He had already decided to return home and move all his machines and equipment here.

    After observing the white space for some time. Ronald asked, "Luis, isn''t this your Pocket Space spell?"

    "Yeah, Dad." Luis nodded.

    Ronald raised his brows and asked, "Wasn''t it only 2 cubic meters capacity when you were G rank? Howe it''s so big now?"

    "Well, every time I broke through a rank. The space capacity increased by ten times and now it''s 2000 cubic meters." Luis exined truthfully.

    Ronald''s eyes widened as he looked at Luis in disbelief and asked, "Doesn''t that mean it will continue to increase in the future?"

    Seeing Luis nod, he couldn''t help but curse out in amazement. "Damn!"

    "As expected of the Ancient Magic Book. It''s too cheating."

    "You are just a D-rank now. I can''t imagine how big this space would be when you reach S rank or even higher."

    "Maybe someday there will be enough space to settle an entire country here." The more Ronald thought about it, the more excited he became.

    Lumine turned to Luis and said, "It seems that your dad has fallen into his delusions. Let''s leave him alone and have our match."

    Luis nodded at her words and walked forward. But in his mind, he was thinking about Ronald''s words. ''Will this space continue to be that big?''

    ***

 Chapter 109 Full Strength!

    Chapter 109 Full Strength!

    Inside the pocket space.

    Lumine and Luis were standing opposite each other wearing training suits, ready to fight.

    "Luis, I am going to suppress my strength to your level and won''t use any weapons and big moves, so fight me at ease," Lumine reminded with a smile.

    Luis nodded his head seriously. He knew even with those handicaps he didn''t stand a chance against her. But he didn''te here to defeat her. He was just here to test his current strength.

    Ronald, who was standing at a distance, looked at Luis with curious eyes, ''I wonder, when Luis uses his full strength, how many times more powerful he would bepared to his fight with Alicia?''

    With some expectations in his heart, he said, "At the count of three. When I say ''Begin'', this match will start."

    Lumine and Luis felt that there was no need for it, but since Ronald had already said so, they nodded simultaneously, agreeing to it. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Okay then!"

    "3"

    "2"

    "1"

    "Begin!"

    As soon as those words left Ronald''s mouth. The sound of air cracking was heard and Lumine dashed towards Luis like a bullet.

    Though she had suppressed her strength at Luis'' level. Her speed was still very fast. Fortunately, even if Luis didn''t have the same speed as her, with the growth in his Perception Skill because of his increase in rank. He could observe her movements.

    Lumine raised her hand and made a posture of vertically shing a sword.

    Although, she didn''t hold any weapon. Luis could sense the danger in her attack. Calcting the right timing, he immediately used his spell to avoid that blow.

    "Spatial Jump!"

    *sh*

    Right at the position where Luis had disappeared, the attacknded and the white floor formed a huge 2-meter-deep arc-shaped crack.

    Luis, who appeared a few meters away, said in aining tone. "Didn''t you say that you won''t be using any big moves?"

    Lumine turned around and said nonchntly, "It wasn''t! That was just my normal sh."

    ''Is she irritated because I interrupted them earlier? Maybe.''

    Luis knew that she did it on purpose but didn''t care much and went on the offensive.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    With a wave of his hand, he immediatelyunched his Thunder Javelin.

    "I have seen that move a lot. It can''t surprise me. Do something better, Luis." Lumine said while calmly dodging that attack.

    Luis didn''t reply to her and silently cast his next spell.

    "Portal!"

    This is his self-created spell, based on the mechanism of the portals of the dungeons. Which he realised with the help of spatial fluctuations of his Spatial Jump spell.

    A portal meter wide in diameter appeared in front of the Thunder Javelin and sucked it inside. Then another portal appeared right behind Lumine and ejected the Thunder Javelin.

    This surprise attack would have caught the opponent off guard. But since it was Lumine that he was facing. That wasn''t the case.

    A metallicyer appeared on her left hand as she calmly turned sideways and grabbed the Thunder Javelin.

    "Wow, that was good." Lumine praised with a smile as she yed with the Thunder Javelin,pletely unaffected by the electric currents.

    Luis sighed, seeing that Lumine had started using her element. ''I don''t know what kind of alloy she is using to resist the thunder.''

    His mother''s element is Metal. Which is considered quite rare among humans.

    Luis'' eyes became serious as he started using his next moves.

    "Gravity!"

    He increased the gravity pressure around Lumine by 10 times. Although he knew that given her physical strength, this kind of pressure was nothing in front of her. He still expected it to hinder her movements somewhat, considering that she had suppressed her strength to his level.

    Lumine was unfazed under the pressure of 10 times gravity and said, "Hey, you had this kind of spell. You should have told me sooner. We could have used it at the time of your practice."

    "I didn''t have much mana before. But now I can keep this spell going for a longer time. So I''ll use it from now on." Luis had already thought about it as his mana core had reached C rank.

    "Good boy," Lumine praised with a smile and said, "Is there anything more? Bring it on!"

    ''Aren''t those the same words I said to Alicia before?'' Luis squinted his eyes but didn''t think much about it.

    He raised his hand and used another spell.

    "Vacuum!"

    Immediately, as if a suction was opened in the area around Lumine where the gravity pressure was 10 times, suddenly all the air was removed.

    Because of the sudden loss of air, Lumine felt ufortable. With her S-rank physique, she managed to resist the power of the vacuum. Otherwise, this fight would have already ended.

    Lumine gritted her teeth and used the strength of a rank higher than D rank to make a big leap and escape the area.

    After taking a deep breath, she said, "I didn''t expect you to have such an amazing spell, Luis! The majority of your enemies will not be able to resist it."

    Luis showed a slight grin, seeing that even Lumine wasn''t able to resist with her D-rank strength.

    ''I should improve thebinations of these spells.'' He thought inwardly.

    Then, looking at Lumine, he asked, "How much strength did you use to escape?"

    Lumine was about to continue attacking, but stopped and replied. "C Rank, but it''s because my actual rank is S! Otherwise, it would need the strength of at least an average B Rank to resist it."

    "I see," Luis nodded in understanding. Then said, "Okay, then let''s continue."

    Lumine nodded and rushed towards him. Luis'' eyes were focused on her. As he used his spells.

    "Thunder Coating!"

    "Spatial Jump!"

    Once again, the golden Luis appeared in front of Lumine and Ronald. As they marvelled at the sight of his ethereal handsomeness.

    "Nothing less to be expected from my genes!" Ronald''s eyes were bright as he observed Luis.

 Chapter 110 Combinations!

    Chapter 110 Combinations!

    Using spatial jump, Luis disappeared from his location and appeared directly in front of Lumine in the posture of unleashing a punch. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Lumine immediately raised her hands, covered in a metallicyer to block his punches.

    *Boom!*

    *Boom!*

    ...

    Every time Luis punched her, the impact, along with the powerful force of thunder, created loud explosions. But Lumine was able to block without much effort.

    "The power and speed behind this move of yours is much greater than ordinary mana coating."

    "No wonder Alicia was having trouble dealing with it," Lumine said while calmly blocking all his attacks.

    Seeing how calmly his mother was blocking his attacks while talking, Luis didn''t feel frustrated. He knew that in front of her, his attacks weren''t much. But that didn''t mean he was going to ept it.

    As Luis increased the speed of his punches. Lumine also went on the offensive. It''s just that, even with the boost of Thunder Coating. Luis'' speed was not a match for her.

    Along with her punches, Lumine also used her hands to sh at him in the form of sword attack.

    With his Perception, Luis could see her moments and for theck of his agility, he used Spatial Jump in session to counter her.

    He used his punches and kicks to attack. But whenever she would use her hand to do sword shes. Luis would immediately teleport and dodge.

    *Bang!*

    *Boom!*

    *Kaboom!*

    *sh!*

    ...

    The battle between them became more and more intense as the minutes passed by.

    As Lumine said before, she didn''t use any big moves or weapons against him. But even with this handicap, Luis wasn''t getting any advantage.

    His figure had been leaving afterimages in the battle because Luis had beenpletely relying on Spatial Jumps to cope with Lumine''s speed.

    He released many lightning spells, but none of them had any effect on Lumine.

    Ronald, who had been watching their battle from the side, had a serious expression on his face.

    ''Is Luis really a D rank one star?''

    No matter how much he thought about it, he was having a hard time believing it. Of course, he knew that Luis didn''t lie to him, but the strength he was disying was in no way something a D-rank human could do.

    ''It''s as if his physique is of a D-rank Giant and his mana reserve is like a D-rank Fairy.''

    Just witnessing thebination of strength of these two species appear on a human, moreover, his son, Ronald, was very excited.

    Since Luis had used the Giant Skeleton''s core in his breakthrough, along with many other herbs and potions. His physical strength has far surpassed other D-rank humans.

    And because he had converted so much ghost energy into mana. His mana reserves were also a lot. Almostparable to a D-rank Fairy, as they have an innate advantage for havingrge mana reservespared to other species.

    Of course, that is not counting the geniuses among those races.

    Ronald''s eyes shifted to Lumine and his lips twitched, seeing the level of strength she was using.

    ''Is this what she meant to fight at the same level as him?!''

    ''Then what does it mean to use the strength of a C rank three stars?''

    He sighed, thinking his son had been cheated by his mother. But considering the strength Luis possessed, he didn''t think what Lumine did was wrong.

    ...

    Luis'' expression was more solemn than before. In his minutes of confrontation with his mother. He had tried various spells andbinations, but not once had he managed to get an advantage over her.

    ''As expected of her! Even if she suppresses her rank to match mine. I can''t evene close to the battle experiences of an S rank.''

    ''I need to work harder!''

    He knew that time wouldn''t wait for anyone. Nor will his future enemies.

    If he doesn''t have the strength to defeat them by then, what will wait for him is the fate of being under the mercy of others, which is something he doesn''t want.

    "Gravity!"

    Luis once again used his gravity spell to put pressure on Lumine.

    "This won''t work, Luis," Lumine said with a slight chuckle. She had already experienced this spell, and she was always prepared for it.

    Before Luis could cast his vacuum spell, she was ready to leave the area affected by the gravity spell. But that''s where she miscalcted.

    Just as she pressed her feet on the ground to make a big leap. A portal appeared below her.

    ''Oops, he got me.'' Lumine understood that Luis wasn''t going with his previousbination and had something else prepared for her. Now, unless she uses an even higher rank, she can''t escape.

    Fortunately for Luis, she had no intention of increasing her rank further, as she wanted to see what Luis had prepared for her.

    Seeing Lumine getting sucked in by the portal. Luis didn''t waste any time and immediately used another portal and directly sent a dozen Thunder Javelins inside it.

    "Lightning Whip!"

    Holding two Lightning Whips, Luis immediately swung his hands towards the 70-degree angle of his head.

    Where a portal appeared mid-air and Lumine emerged from it. But before she had the time to react, the two lightning whips weretched onto her hands tightly.

    Of course, since her hands had a metallicyer above them, the paralyzing effect of the whip didn''t have any effect on her.

    Though Luis didn''t care about any of that. He pulled the whips, pulling her downwards with all his strength and elerated the speed of her fall.

    Right at the location where she was about to fall, another portal appeared from which a dozen Thunder Javelins from before were shot towards her.

    As her hands were tied by the whips, she couldn''t use them to block these attacks.

    The next second, Luis saw all his Thunder Javelins exploding at the collision with Lumine one by one.

    *Baam!*

    *Boom!*

    *Kaboom!*

    After a dozen explosions, Lumine finally fell to the ground, fine as before.

    "Wow Luis, you are ruthless even against your mother." Although sheined, the smile on her face betrayed her. She was very excited to see his growth.

 Chapter 111 Lilys Trial!

    Chapter 111 Lily''s Trial!

    "Wow Luis, you are ruthless even against your mother." Although sheined, the smile on her face betrayed her. She was very excited to see his growth.

    Looking at his mother, Luis smiled and said, "Thanks, Mom!"

    "Any time!" Lumine said with a smile and then asked, "Did you gain anything in this battle?"

    Luis nodded and replied, "A lot! Now I have many ideas andbinations to practice in the future."

    Lumine nodded and didn''t ask anything about it.

    Since they were done here, the three of them came out of the pocket space and Luis left for his room, leaving his words. "Mom, Dad, I''ll see you at the dinner table."

    He needed a shower because he was quite sweaty after his practice match.

    --- n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Inside the room, Ronald turned to look at Lumine and asked.

    "Why were you using the strength of a C-Rank?"

    Lumine tilted her head and replied, "As I said before, I''ll match my strength with his level. So I did. He has the strength of a C-Rank. So I faced him with equal power."

    Ronald''s lips twitched as he said, "He is just a D rank!"

    "Does it matter?" Lumine questioned and continued, "Luis'' strength is far higher than any other D-rank human out there."

    "His amazing talents, his affinities, his will to work hard, and the high-grade resources he takes. You can also see how amazing his foundation has be."

    "His physical strength is amazing and his mana reserve is also much higher than any other human of his level."

    "Just from these, you can see how serious he is about his goal."

    "I, as his mother, should do my best to support him."

    "In this match with me, his purpose wasn''t to defeat me but to find out what he wascking."

    "And you can see from his expression that he got what he wanted."

    "So, it doesn''t matter. If the fight was unfair or not."

    Ronald was speechless since he didn''t expect to be lectured by her. But Lumine didn''t wait for him to say anything and went towards the bathroom, leaving another sentence.

    "I''ll go take a bath."

    Ronald looked at her curiously and murmured, "But you didn''t even sweat. Do you need a shower now?"

    Lumine stopped and gave him a dangerous re. "It''s not because of the match but the mess you made that I haven''t cleaned up yet."

    When Ronald heard this, he immediately remembered what they were doing before Luis came here and coughed dryly.

    Lumine looked at him scornfully and went inside the bathroom.

    Ronald, who was left there, sighed as he thought inwardly. ''It seems she is also irritated that we couldn''t finish earlier.''

    ''And I have to be the outlet of her anger once again.''

    *Sigh!*

    ''Everything is Luis'' fault!'' Thinking of his son, he once again became angry.

    ***

    After taking a shower, Luis changed into another set of clothes.

    He wanted to check the surveince data Lily had collected about the core targets. But since it was time for dinner, he decided to do itter.

    "Lily, excluding all the data regarding core targets, summarize them for me. I''ll check itter."

    {Okay, Master~}

    "As for the Core Targets, I''ll check them in detail," Luis mumbled while leaving the room.

    ***

    ***

    After dinner.

    Back in his room. Luis was looking at the ceiling, thinking about the atmosphere at the time of dinner.

    ''Dad seemed really angry at me.''

    ''Alicia seemed a little lost in thought and gave small nces at me.''

    ''Uncle David didn''t say anything from start to finish.''

    ''Mom seemed kinda angry at Dad, too.''

    "Ah well, whatever, I should get started and finish everything before I sleep," Luis mumbled as he sat on his bed and said, "Lily, based on Alicia''s preferences. Give me some suggestions for tomorrow''s date."

    Luis knew that Lily and Alicia were good chat buddies and they were very close, like sisters. So Lily should know what kind of things Alicia likes.

    Showing a curious look, Luis waited for her answer. But Lily''s answer was something he didn''t expect.

    {Master, Sister Alicia had asked me to not tell you about these things. Do you want to use your authority?}

    Lily''s voice sounded a bit hesitant as she said that. If she could, Lily didn''t want to betray her sister''s trust in her. But she also can''t go against her master''s order. That''s why she was in a dilemma.

    When Luis heard this, he was surprised. Not because Alicia forbade her to tell him. But because Lily was showing a sad and guilty look.

    ''Is she that emotionally attached to Alicia?'' Luis wasn''t angry at Lily for showing these emotions. Instead, he was quite interested in the choice she would make if he would ask her. So he decided to test her.

    "Tell me Lily, what do you want to do?"

    {If the Master wants, I will do it.} Lily said with a grim face.

    Luis shook his head and said, "No, what I want to know is what you really want to do in your heart. If you have to choose one over the other. What you will choose?"

    {Please don''t make me say that Master!} Lily was afraid and sad, as she looked at Luis pitifully.

    Luis had an expressionless face as he uttered. "Just answer me? Whom will you choose Lily?"

    Lily lowered her head, depressed, and said, {I''ll follow your orders, Master.}

    Giving her a nk look, Luis stated, "You are lying, Lily!"

    When Lily heard this, her hologram body trembled. If a third party saw this scene, they would think that Luis was bullying this cute little girl.

    Well, he was. So it''s not wrong.

    Anyway, Lily''s body trembled with guilt and fear. She was a little girl who was caught lying.

    Looking at her appearance, Luis chuckled inwardly and continued, "You know, Lily, I''m a little disappointed in you. I didn''t expect you to lie to me."

    Lily raised her small head to look at Luis with tears in her eyes. Then gripping her skirt, she said.

    {Wuu! I''m-I''m s-sorry Master! P-Please forgive me!}

 Chapter 112 Guilty Luis!

    Chapter 112 Guilty Luis!

    Luis looked at her expressionlessly and uttered, "Don''t apologise, just tell me the truth!"

    Seeing the look on his face, Lily felt scared. She didn''t want to anger her master. But the emotions inside her were something she couldn''t control.

    All the time she spent with her Sister Alicia was fresh in her memory. Their girl talks, checking out dresses, ying games in their free time, everything. Each moment with her Sister Alicia was something precious for her.

    So, in the end, with her head hung low, while mustering up her courage, she said, {I don''t want to betray the trust of sister Alicia. She hates betrayal the most and if I betray her, she might hate me too and I don''t want that.}

    Luis'' expression was still nk as he questioned tly, "Even if it is for such a small thing?"

    When she heard Luis'' question, Lily''s shoulders trembled again, but gripping her skirt, she finally looked up with firm eyes and nodded, {Yes, even if it is for such a small matter! I don''t want to betray her!}

    As she said those words, tears kept bawling out of her eyes. Lily knew that when she defied her master, she was going to be punished. No master wants their servants to go against them. But even if she was ready to follow his orders, the emotions inside her were telling her to go against his order this time. She couldn''t bear to betray her sister Alicia''s trust in her.

    Luis looked at the crying Lily with aplicated expression on his face. After all, it''s not Lily''s fault, since that was how he made her to be.

    He was the one who wanted her to have emotions.

    He was the one who made her as such. She could never go against his orders.

    He was the one who let her get closer to Alicia.

    Now that everything was going as he wanted, why was he worried? Luis was confused.

    Raising his hand, he rubbed his forehead, feeling a slight headache.

    ''I just wanted to tease her. How did a simple talk end up into something like this?''

    ''How should I handle this situation?''

    When he made her, Luis knew very well that an AI made of human consciousness instead of data would have this kind of emotional problem eventually in the future. But he didn''t expect it to be so soon.

    Because the AI madepletely of data may take decades to start showing human emotions. But the same with thebination of his sorcery and tech, he achieved it in a few days of development. As for the rest, Lily learned on her own.

    If not for the situation, he would have loved to pat his back for creating such an outstanding AI.

    ''Is this a good thing or not?'' Luis didn''t have an answer to this question.

    In his heart, his thoughts were quite contrasting with each other. He wanted to create a body for her and make her an artificial human. But he also didn''t want to lose his control over her.

    Sighing, he looked at Lily and said, "Lily, it''s fine if you want to stand up for Alicia''s trust in you. Those are your emotions and you can think whatever you want."

    Lily was visibly surprised, as she didn''t expect her master to be so understanding. But she was happy too early, as Luis was not done yet.

    Suddenly, he showed a stern expression and continued. "However, no matter what happens, if I order you something. You will have to follow it through, no matter what."

    Then, with a cold expression, he uttered the words Lily least wanted to hear.

    "If someday I find you going against my order, I''ll erase your emotions."

    Lily was horrified, but closing her eyes, she resigned herself and nodded, agreeing to him. {Okay, master. If someday I go against your order, please erase my emotions.}

    Luis knew that he was being a little cruel. But he still wanted to remind her of that. Although he had already made her as such, she can never go against him. What if she manages to find a loophole? So he took these precautions early.

    ''Nah, I shouldn''t worry too much.'' Shaking his head, Luis decided to end this matter.

    "Alright, let''s get back to what I asked before."

    {... Master, should I make a date n based on sister Alicia''s preferences?}

    Luis was thoughtful for a moment and said, "You know what?! Let''s forget that! Since she doesn''t want to tell anyone. There''s no need to tell me. I''ll just let her choose tomorrow." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Although Lily was confused by what Master meant by letting her choose, she still nodded in relief. Fortunately, she didn''t betray her sister''s trust in her.

    Luis was amused to see Lily''s relieved expression.

    ''Did I scare her that much? My bad Lily, but sometimes it''s necessary to be strict too.''

    Maybe it was for her good, or maybe it was because of his fear of losing control over her that he was so hard on her.

    Whatever it may be the reason, Luis felt a little guilty for his actions. But he will never show it.

    Thinking back on his actions, a sentence came to Luis'' mind.

    ''Masks of hypocrisy are in the nature of humans.''

    No matter how good or bad a person is. If the need is, he will end up bing a hypocrite. Luis did too, but for what he did with Lily, he has decided to make amends for it in the future.

    Taking a deep breath, Luis calmed himself down and said, "Lily! Start showing me all the data you collected."

    {Should I first show the summarized data, or the Core Targets data?}

    Luis thought for a moment, then said, "Show me the Core Targets data first. Especially their scenes in the test and their contacts were each other."

    {Okay.} Lily nodded and did as she was told. Opening the hologram screen, she started ying the recordings one by one.

    ***

 Chapter 113 Core Targets!

    Chapter 113 Core Targets!

    Time passed by as Luis was focused on watching the performance of the core targets at the test.

    Starting with Rura Wayne. Her performance wasn''t much different from what he expected. He had already watched her encounter with Thomas. So he was certain that there wasn''t much change in their rtionship from what he remembers.

    ''She is ranked seventh, huh?''

    This was surprising because even in the game, she always got that rank by default. Luis had expected there to be a change in her rank because of his interference, but it seems there''s not.

    One thing that was different with her is that she didn''t encounter Alex because he was eliminated by him early. So they were still strangers.

    In the game, the test ranking decides which route the yer is going to take. If the yer survives till the end, the first heroine, Rura Wayne''s storyline, will be unlocked and they will have their first encounter in the test.

    But if the yer doesn''t manage to get an S rating or have a chance encounter with the heroines in the test. He will need toplete other quests to create a chance encounter with heroines and unlock their routes.

    As Luis thought about these details, he started remembering his days in the hospital bed and how hard he and Mark tried to get the S rating to unlock Rura''s route and use the Academy privileges.

    ''When I yed the game, it took me more than 30 tries to rank first. And now, hehe.''

    ''As expected of me, I am awesome.'' Luis thought narcissistically then a sad smile appeared on his face.

    ''It''s just that I am not as happy now as I was then for this achievement.''

    Shaking his head to remove these thoughts out of his head, Luis focused on the other core targets.

    Seraphina Evansville. Ranked third. Chopped most of her enemies with her swordbined with her wood element. She was eliminated after being surrounded by monsters.

    ''Hmm, so even Alicia didn''t encounter her.''

    Luis then focused on the next core target. Someone he thought of making contact with before but stopped because of her bad mood.

    Diana Tres, she ranked fifth. In the entire test, she crushed her opponents with her fists. But more than candidates, she enjoyed fighting with the monsters.

    ''She sure is wild!''

    Luis knew she was a little troublesome. But once he gets her as his subordinate, he will get a good thug and, because of her straightforward nature, he doesn''t have to worry about ying mind games with her.

    ''I want to see if I can learn some techniques from her Jungle Karate.''

    He was thoughtful, then he nodded his head and decided.

    ''Well, let''s take a look at itter.''

    Emily Steve, fourth rank, Luis was surprised that she survived this long.

    ''She sure has good luck.''

    Then in a security cam recording, he saw her looking at the ranking board with an elf near her.

    ''Is that her Royal Guard? So he must have also been present at the time of the ice cream shop encounter.''

    ''Since he didn''t attack me even after I disrespected their princess, did he know my identity?''

    Although at that time, Luis was still very careful around her. But thinking that her guard had been staring at him made him wary.

    ''Even if I have protection artifacts that Mom gave me and the shadow that Dad had assigned to protect me from afar. I should still think about some other protective measures.''

    Moreover, after the academy starts, they will not get to have any bodyguards with them. Luis isn''t much worried because of his Spatial Magic, but he is concerned about Alicia''s protection.

    ''I should find some perks for her for life-threatening situations.''

    He wants her to be stronger, not die, alright. She is his fiance and the girl he is starting to fall in love with.

    ''Okay, next is Urs Aiberson.''

    ''Ranked Ninth, hmm. More than I expected.''

    ''She seems quite worried about Thomas. Well, that''s what to be expected after the help I gave him.''

    ''Speaking of Thomas. His ranking number is quite interesting, 555th rank.''

    ''Unlike the game where Thomas is always in the top three. This time, the poor guy didn''t even manage to get in the top 500. He must be pissed off.''

    ''I wonder, what kind of reaction will he have in front of Rura? Will he be ashamed? Probably.''

    ''Hehe, it will be fun to see.'' n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Thomas was eliminated early, so he didn''t get to show off in the test. As for after the test, he has been in denial. Sometimes depressed and sometimes irritated.

    ''He isn''t having a mental breakdown, right?''

    ''If he does, I am sure Rura will be the happiest.''

    After watching Thomas'' depressed face for some time. Luis turned on the next core target.

    Markeith Evansville, Seraphina''s brother, was Thomas'' subordinate in the game. He ranked eighth in the test and all his fights were him torturing the weak candidates.

    ''I don''t like this guy. He better not trouble me in the future.''

    After watching his information and the videos, Luis was certain. He was the same as in the game.

    ''This time he didn''t get to meet Thomas and Thomas'' ranking is also very low.''

    ''I don''t know if he will follow the original story or not?''

    ''Well, let''s wait and see.''

    Thinking of this, Luis then focused on the next core target. Sera Dennis.

    ''She ranked 16th and was defeated under the hands of Alicia. That''s interesting.''

    After looking at the data, Luis started watching her performance. But this time, things differed from the other core targets.

    A frown appeared on his face and the more he watched, the deeper his frown became.

    "Just what is going on with her?"

    Sera''s performance was quite better than he expected. But then he saw her encounter with Alicia.

    ''Why is talking so friendly with Alicia?''

    ''I don''t remember her being on talking terms with Alicia.''

    But what made Luis happy was that Alicia adhered to his words and tried being friendly with Sera.

    ***

 Chapter 114 Weird Sera!

    Chapter 114 Weird Sera!

    "Though the conversation wasn''t long, at least she took a step." Luis uttered with a smile while thinking inwardly, ''Since she tried what I asked of her, she deserves a reward. Hmm, but what should I give her?''

    Shaking his head, he decided to think about itter and brought his focus back to Sera.

    ''So anyway, this Sera differs somewhat from what I remembered about her.''

    ''If it was normal, she wouldn''t have taken the initiative to start a conversation with Alicia.''

    ''But she did and even praised her looks. Which was kind of hard to believe given how she usually acted aloof, not expressing what she felt inside.''

    ''Even in the game, it was hard to make her open up.''

    ''She did have a massive change in her personality. But that was after her father died in their third year of the academy.''

    ''After her father died, her obsession with Alex also went to the extreme.'' Just thinking about it, Luis'' body shuddered.

    ��

    "Lily, aren''t there more videos of her performance?"

    Her only highlight in the test was her battle with Alicia and, for the rest of her battle scenes, they were just some weak candidates.

    Lily shook her little head and answered, {No master, she didn''t get much spotlight from the start and when she did; she was eliminated by Sister Alicia soon after.}

    "That''s disappointing," Luis mumbled while rubbing his chin.

    After a momentary pause, Lily said, {Master, after the test was over, she inquired about your information.}

    "Oh?! That''s interesting!" Luis raised his left brow and asked curiously, "What kind of information?!"

    {Your basic information and identity.}

    Hearing this, Luis was thoughtful, ''Is it because I ranked first that I attracted her attention?''

    After pondering for a moment, he asked, "Was there any contact between her and the core targets?"

    {Yes Master, after the test she made contact with the core target, Alex Stain.}

    When Luis heard this, his eyes widened in surprise and then a serious frown appeared on his face.

    ''Sera made contact with Alex? What is going on here?''

    "Show me that video!" Luis asked in a deep voice.

    Lily nodded, and then she started ying a recording. In the video, Luis could see that after the exam was over, Sera made contact with Alex and the two of them had lunch together.

    The restaurant''s camera was a bit far from them, so their conversation couldn''t be heard. However, just from the observation alone, anyone could see that in their conversation with each other, Sera seemed very enthusiastic. Which was unexpected, given her aloof personality.

    After lunch, the two of them went separate ways and returned to their hotels. Then there was no further contact between them for the rest of the day.

    Luis had a calm expression on his face as he watched the video until the end. Then he closed his eyes and exhaled a heavy breath.

    Until now, none of the core targets had differences in their personality. But in Sera''s case, he needed to pay attention.

    "Lily, can you interpret the context of their conversation from their lips movements?"

    {Sorry master, the recording isn''t clear enough and the camera angle is not good, given their seating position.}

    "I figured," Luis was only a little disappointed, as he said, "Keep an eye on them Lily, and if they meet again, tell me."

    {Yes, master.} Lily answered with a nod.

    Luis could see that there was something very wrong here.

    Normally, at this stage, Sera and Alex should have just been strangers.

    But from their looks, it can be seen that they are quite friendly with each other. Or maybe acquainted enough to be eating lunch together.

    ''I have seen Alex, but I didn''t converse with him enough. So I don''t know if this change is because of him.''

    ''As for Sera, her personality does seem different, especially while talking to Alex.''

    Luis was thoughtful as he made up his mind to test themter. Then a question came to his mind, ''Do they know each other from before?''

    Thinking of this, he asked, "Lily, were they in contact before the test started?"

    {There is no such record, master.} Lily uttered.

    Luis had expected that to be the case, but this question still bothered him. ''How did Alex and Sera get acquainted?''

    *Sigh*

    After sighing, he decided, ''Just by thinking about it, I won''t get any answers. I better look into itter.''

    As he was nning on how to make contact with them, his eyes fell on the restaurant''s video again and he muttered in annoyance, "Still, what''s up with this restaurant, in this age of technology, there''s only one camera and that too is of such poor quality."

    With a slight frown on his face, Luis asked, "Lily, what''s the name of this restaurant?"

    {Krocadal''s Kitchen.} Lily answered.

    "What a weird name." He mumbled.

    {The food there is very popr among the students. It''s just that the ce isn''t ssy enough.}

    "Is that so?" Though curious about the food, he still had an annoyed expression on his face. If the restaurant had some better-quality cameras, he wouldn''t have been so troubled and might have found some information from their conversation.

    ''Sigh, what am I doing, ming them for?''

    ''I shouldplete that project fast, then I wouldn''t be so troubled about surveince.''

    ...

    "By the way, what''s Alex''s rank?" Luis asked.

    {19th.}

    "Hmm, not bad I guess."

    {If he didn''t encounter you. His rank would have been higher.}

    "That''s his bad luck. How am I at fault?"

    {... Right.}

    ---

    After observing a little more information about the core targets. Luis checked the summarized information that Lily had prepared from the rest of the exam. But in the end, he didn''t find anything of relevance.

    By the time he was done, Luis saw that it was already midnight.

    "I better sleep now, or else I might bete for the date tomorrow."

    With a slight smile on his face, Luisy on his bed and some minutester, fell into a deep sleep.

    ***

    While inside another room, Alicia was having trouble sleeping. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''Just when will this night end already?''

    ***

 Chapter 115 Date!

    Chapter 115 Date!

    The night went by fast and the morning sun rose like a canopy of gold, amid the crimson-gray sky full of stars and the vast ocean reflecting the beautiful picture of this sunrise. Soon, the vibrant color filled the entire sky, enveloping the crimson darkness by its radiance.

    (A. N: Every 15th night of Alnaur is shrouded in the crimson light of Velmaur.)

    ---

    Waking up early, Luis made some preparations for his date today and changed into a new set of attire.

    Taking a look at himself in the mirror, he nodded in satisfaction. "As expected of me! Handsome as ever!"

    But then he showed a look of concern. "I am worried that Alicia might not be able to resist kissing me."

    *Sigh*

    "I''ll ask her to restrain herself. But if she can''t, then I guess I can only ept it."

    With a resigned expression on his face and expectations in his heart, Luis left his room to go have his breakfast.

    Along the way, Luis came across the person he was thinking about and a faint smile appeared on his face.

    "Morning, Alicia!" Luis greeted her with a wave of his hand.

    Alicia had a soft smile on her face as she replied to his greeting. "Morning!" Then she asked, "Breakfast?" To which Luis nodded.

    "You too?" When he asked this, he carefully observed her.

    Alicia was wearing a knee-length casual beige colour dress with a floral pattern. Simple round earrings and silver-colored high heels. She left her hair open, and they seemed kinda wavy.

    "Yes," Alicia answered with a slight blush as she noticed Luis looking at her with scrutinizing eyes. She was excited as well as nervous. Before, she was confused about what to wear for the date because she had no idea about today''s n.

    She wanted to ask Luis, but thought that he might be trying to surprise her. So she decided against it and went with this casual style in the end. Fortunately, looking at Luis, it seems her choice wasn''t wrong. Luis was wearing a denim shirt with trousers and looked very handsome in it.

    Now that Luis was observing her so carefully, she quietly waited for his opinion. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    After examining her for a few seconds carefully, Luis nodded with a smile. "That dress looks beautiful."

    Alicia had a soft smile on her face as she asked, "The dress looks good. What about me?"

    Luis showed a confused expression and said nonchntly. "You are already so beautiful. What can a dress help you with that? In the end, you can only make the dresses you wear look beautiful."

    For his words, Alicia''s heart was filled with sweetness, but she showed a small grin and said, "Then you haven''t seen me enough. There are many dresses in which I look even more beautiful."

    "Is that so?" Luis showed a surprised expression and then with a serious expression he said, "In that case, we will have to go on many dates in the future. So that I can see you in all those dresses."

    Hearing him talking about their future dates, Alicia showed a beautiful smile and said, "Then you will have to n those dates well, Mr. Fiance!"

    Luis nodded with a cheeky smile and said, "I will, don''t you worry! My Wife!"

    Alicia blushed slightly and immediately changed the topic. "Shall we go have breakfast?"

    "Of course, Honey~" Luis answered with a smile.

    "Wasn''t it wife before?" Aliciained, feeling a little embarrassed.

    "Oh, you prefer that I call you wife? Sure~ whatever my wife wants," Luis said with a chuckle.

    "Y-You tricked me."

    "What are you talking about?" Luis acted oblivious and said, "It was you who tricked me with your charm."

    "I-I didn''t do such a thing!" Aliciained while hiding her blush.

    "See, you look guilty."

    "I don''t!"

    "Haha," Luis chuckled as the two of them went to have their breakfast while having this jovial banter along the way.

    ***

    After having their breakfast, they were ready to leave as Alicia wiped her mouth with a tissue.

    At that moment, David''s voice sounded beside them. "Oh, you two already had your breakfast?"

    Luis and Alicia turned to and greeted.

    "Good Morning, Uncle David! Yeah, we just had."

    "Morning Dad!"

    "Good Morning, the two of you." David nodded with a smile and then he mumbled while looking around, "It seems Ronald and Lumine aren''t awake yet."

    Hearing David talk about his parents, Luis instantly remembered what they were doingst evening. Then a thought came to his mind. ''Don''t tell me. Did they continue after dinner?''

    ''If that is the case, then they might still be asleep.''

    Showing a look of understanding, he lied to David, "They might be here soon."

    David nodded, not thinking about it too much as his eyes shifted at both of them and he asked curiously, "Are you two going somewhere?"

    Luis nodded and answered, "Yeah, we are going on a date."

    David raised his brow when he heard Luis'' answer. Then he observed Alicia''s soft smile and said, "Then enjoy the two of you. Have a great time."

    "We will!" Luis replied with a grin, and Alicia nodded with a soft smile. Then the two of them left together.

    Looking at their backs, David let out a small chuckle and started thinking about his wife.

    ''Our daughter is going on a date with her fiance, Maria.''

    ''And she looks just as beautiful as you did.''

    ***

    Outside the hotel, Alicia turned to look at Luis and asked. "So, where are we going?"

    Luis looked at her with a grin and replied, "Haven''t decided yet."

    "What? But weren''t you going to n something?" Alicia wasn''t angry at him but asked with a small frown, because that''s what he said to her before.

    Luis nodded and said, "Well, there were a lot of things I nned and wanted to do with you. But in the end, I couldn''t decide. So, I thought of something."

    Hearing his former sentence, Alicia was happy that Luis wanted to try out many things with her, and when she heard histter sentence she asked curiously, "What have you thought?"

 Chapter 116 Joke Of Destiny!

    Chapter 116 Joke Of Destiny!

    Instead of answering her. From his mana bracket, Luis took out a ss jar full of paper slips.

    Alicia''s curious eyes were fixed on that ss jar, as she asked, "What is this for?"

    Luis smiled and said, "In these paper slips, I''ve written down my wishes about the things I wanna try out with you on our dates."

    Hearing him say that, Alicia''s eyes widened in surprise. "So many?!"

    "No, it''s not," Luis shook his head and continued, "This jar is not big enough for me to write down all my wishes. So I''ll keep adding more once it starts getting empty."

    Alicia looked at him incredulously and mumbled, "Just how many dates will it take for us toplete all your wishes?"

    "There''s no hurry," Luis said with a shrug and then continued with a handsome smile, "We are going to experience a lot of things together and for that, we have our entire lives ahead of us. You should also write down the things you wanna try. We will do it together."

    Then, raising the jar in his hand, he said, "Now why don''t we start already? Try picking out a few, so we can decide on today''s date itinerary."

    Alicia nodded and inserted her hand inside the jar. After picking a few paper slips, she unfolded them one by one.

    [Underwater Restaurant Dinner]

    [Surfing]

    [Mermaids Dive]

    [Beach Sunset]

    [Botanical Park]

    [Arcade]

    [Movie]

    [Shark Racing]

    "Well, your choices are pretty niche, Alicia," Luis uttered, reading the paper slips she picked. Then, turning his head to look at her, he suggested, "We have already watched a movie on ourst date. Why don''t we leave that one out for today?"

    Putting away the jar back inside the mana bracelet, Luis got close to her. Then, like a natural movement, he smoothly held her hand and started walking in a certain direction.

    Alicia nodded, agreeing to his words, then with a slight smile, she said. "You were the one going to take the lead on today''s date, so everything is up to you."

    When Luis heard Alicia''s statement, he grinned.

    "Then, don''t mind me!"

    Putting away the jar back inside the mana bracelet, Luis got close to her. Then, like a natural movement, he smoothly held her hand and started walking in a certain direction.

    Alicia took a moment to react to Luis'' casual and natural behaviour. He did it like it was their usual thing, which made her blush. However, she didn''t pull away, as she liked it this way.

    "Where are we going first?" She asked, trying not to focus on her hand that was held by him tightly.

    Luis smiled, locked their fingers together and said, "Let''s go to the Botanical Park first."

    Alicia nodded, trying her best to ignore his small actions. Otherwise, she might once again end up blushing from his intimate behaviour. Secondster, the two of them took a hover car and left.

    ---

    Two old men who had been observing Luis and Alicia''s actions from the start chuckled.

    An old man with a white beard said. "Kids these days really know how to make their lives fun."

    The oldpanion of his nodded and said with augh. "Haha, when I was younger, I also went on many dates."

    "You are lucky, the majority of my dates have always ended up in shopping and my loose wallet."

    "Haha, same here."

    ...

    A guy wearing a tracksuit seemed to be resting on the side from his morning run, said with a snort, "Childish."

    His name is v Norris, a second-year student at the Oracle Academy.

    ''Are those two new students joining the academy this year?''

    ''Whatever, it doesn''t matter!''

    ''From how their brains are full of love. I can tell that they won''t get anywhere in the future.''

    With a disdainful look on his face and some disappointment for his juniors in his heart, v stopped resting and continued his run.

    ''Instead of wasting time on things like love and rtionships. It''s better to train hard and get stronger. Only then will you have any value in this world.''

    ''I hope the other juniors won''t be like this stupid love brain couple.''

    *Sigh*

    Sighing, v disappeared from that area within a few steps. His speed was so fast that it only left a gust of wind for normal people to feel.

    If Luis knew about v''s disdain for him and Alicia. He would have really liked toin. After all, he was a hard worker and after being busy for months. Now they were finally going on a date in their free time. Is that still wasting time?

    As for being called childish? Although the two of them knew that what they were doing seemed kind of childish, they didn''t care. It''s their happiness that matters, and as long as they are happy even while doing these small things together, does it matter if others think of them as childish?

    ***

    On the east of the academy city and quite a distance away from the Malia pier is the stunning botanical garden that sprawled at the foot of the Moon Candle lighthouse. That is also Luis and Alicia''s first destination for today.

    "Luis, are we going to that lighthouseter?" Alicia asked while pointing towards the Moon Candle lighthouse.

    Luis turned his head toward the lighthouse and nodded after a moment of thought.

    "Sure, let''s visit it after taking a look around the botanical garden."

    "Okay," Alicia nodded with a crescent smile on her face.

    Still holding each other''s hands, the two of them made their way towards the entrance of the botanical garden.

    On their way, Luis had already let Lily purchase the tickets online, so they didn''t line up at the counter.

    While they were getting the visitor''s pass from the man standing near the entrance. Another person holding a book came forward and asked. "Do you two need a guide?"

    When Alicia heard this, she thought that having a guide might be a good idea. But she still waited for Luis''s decision.

    Luis looked at him and replied bluntly, "No need." Then, holding Alicia''s hands, he immediately left.

    Seeing the look of confusion on Alicia''s face. Luis took out a pair of small earpieces and said, "We can just let Lily be our guide. She will exin in much detail."

    Though he said that, inwardly, his thoughts were different.

    ''Yeah, like hell, I will let a guide follow us! It''s a romantic date, not a study tour! Why will I let a guide interrupt us in our alone time?''

    Alicia nodded and didn''t think much about it. Taking the small earpiece from him, she wore it. She also felt that it was better to let Lily be their guide than to let a stranger follow them. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    With that, their tour around the botanical garden finally began.

    ---

    They started checking all the sections one by one and Lily introduced all the herbs, nts, and trees to them.

    What kind of use do they have? What are their specialities? How are they bred? And many other interesting things.

    Alicia and Luis listened to everything carefully, as they admired the beauty of nature.

    But then Lily''s introduction about the next nt made Luis'' steps halt.

    {The pollen of these Hercowl flowers is used to create the medicine for Malignant Tumour. It can easily cure patients even in theirter stages.}

    "Luis?" Alicia called out in confusion, wondering why he stopped.

    Luis, on the other hand, didn''t reply to her and was in a trance-like state, looking at the whitish-pink flower in front of him. ''This flower�� can cure cancer?''

    His lips trembled for a moment and a bitter smile appeared on his face.

    ''From this same disease, I died in my previous life after suffering for years.''

    ''Now, in this world, it is something easily curable.''

    Shaking his head, Luis ignored that flower and started walking together with Alicia.

    After a few steps, he chuckled. "Hehe~"

    "Why are youughing?" Alicia asked, not understanding why Luis suddenlyughed.

    Luis nced at her and said, "Just thought of a funny thing."

    Alicia''s eyes brightened as she asked. "Oh, tell me?"

    Exhaling a deep breath, Luis looked ahead and said, "Then I''ll tell you a story."

    "There was a boy who wanted something. The thing he wanted wasn''t just his desire, it was also his hope. If you had asked him to choose between that thing he wanted and all the money in the world, without hesitation, he would choose that thing. It was that important for him. He dreamt about getting it countless times. But he couldn''t obtain it and in the end, he lost all his hopes."

    "Then, when everything was over for him and he did not need that thing anymore, he found that thing lying on the roadside in his casual stroll."

    Turning his head to look at Alicia. Luis asked, "What do you think his reaction would have been?"

    Alicia was thoughtful for a moment, then she said, "He must have felt like crying."

    Luis smiled at her and said, "Hmm, maybe that could have been the reaction, too. But he didn''t feel anything. He just nced at it for a moment and then went his way."

    Alicia pondered about this story for a moment, then a frown appeared on her face. "Where''s the humour in it? I don''t understand."

    Luis looked at her cute reaction and chuckled softly.

    "Of course you won''t. And neither do I. After all, it''s a joke made by destiny."

 Chapter 117 Cheating!

    Chapter 117 Cheating!

    After touring the botanical garden for another hour. They decided to go take a look at the Moon Candle lighthouse.

    "There are so many people here. Is this ce really that popr?" Alicia didn''t expect the lighthouse to be so crowded.

    "Well, it is a historicalndmark. So I guess that''s normal." Luis said while embracing Alicia close to him and making their way through the crowd.

    The moon candle lighthouse was made in the war era, even before the foundation of the Oracle Academy. It is said that this lighthouse has worked as a strategic point several times in the Great War. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    When they came to a less crowded area, Luis looked at the lighthouse and sighed. ''Unfortunately, this historicalndmark is a ce destined to be destroyed in the future events.''

    Turning his head to look at Alicia, Luis asked, "Do you still want to go up? It''s crowded and may take a while."

    Alicia had a small frown on her face as she was thoughtful, and after a moment, she shook her head and said, "Unn, maybe we cane again another time. Let''s go to the next ce."

    "Okay, then let''s go." Still holding her hands, firmly. Luis took her to the nearby Arcade.

    ---

    When they came to the Arcade, Luis asked Alicia what game she would like to y.

    "Bowling!" she answered instantly.

    Hence, they were now at the bowling alley. Standing in front of ane where Alicia was ready to take her first shot.

    "How many pins do you think I can knock down?" Alicia asked with a haughty expression on her face.

    Luis said with a chuckle, "Maybe half of them."

    Alicia was instantly furious. "What?! You underestimate me that much! Of course, I will make a strike!"

    "Oh, really?" Luis had a doubtful expression on him as he suggested, "If you are so confident, how about we make a bet?"

    Alicia''s interest was piqued as she asked, "What bet?"

    Seeing Alicia''s anger calm down at a visible rate, Luis smiled and said, "Both of us will take three shots each, and the one who has more points gets to make one request from the loser."

    Alicia didn''t agree immediately but narrowed her eyes. "What kind of request?"

    "Well, you know, nothing too much," Luis answered vaguely with a confident expression, but his slightly averting eyes made him look suspicious.

    With a poker face, Alicia looked at him indifferently, and said, "Let''s set a rule. There can''t be any excessive requests. If the other party doesn''t want it. Then the winner will have to change the request."

    "Have it your way," Luis sighed. He knew it was hard for Alicia to relent. But this was good enough for now. One step at a time, they were not in a hurry.

    ''I even have your daddy''s blessing. How long can you stop me? Eventually, I''ll have it all.'' Thinking about it, he smiled evilly.

    Alicia was unaware of Luis'' evil thoughts about her, as stood in front of thene, adjusting her grip on the bowling ball.

    "Then I''ll go first." With those words, Alicia focused on the pins in front of her and made her shot.

    *Thud*

    *Roll**Roll**Roll*

    The ball made a left curve and hit the pins.

    *Smash!*

    Nine pins were instantly knocked down. But thest one only shook a little.

    ''Fall! Fall! Just Fall Dammit!''

    Even though Alicia screamed inwardly, thest pin didn''t listen to her pleas and still stood tall under her intense gaze, full of hatred.

    "Wow, Alicia, you were so close to a strike." Luis'' praise sounded in her ears, which made her even more hateful towards that bowling pin.

    With a snort, Alicia dered, "In the next shot, I won''t miss any."

    And just like she said, Alicia managed to do two perfect strikes in a row.

    Alicia gave Luis a wide grin and asked. "See that?"

    Luisplimented her sincerely, "You were amazing, Alicia."

    "Hehe~" Alicia giggled, then said with a smug look. "Now it''s your turn."

    He nodded and grabbed a ball, then standing in front of thene, he made his first shot.

    The ball rolled and at thest moment made a curve, striking all the bowling pins, and knocking them down.

    "Well, that''s a strike." Luis whistled and got ready to make his next throw.

    Alicia on the side, as if realising something, frowned suddenly, "Don''t tell me your Sharpshooter talent is also useful in bowling?!"

    Luis'' movements paused for a moment as he turned to look at her with an innocent smile and asked, "How can that be?"

    Then he instantly made a shot and once again, it was a perfect strike.

    At this moment, Alicia was certain. Her guess was right.

    ''Oops, how can I be so careless?!''

    She felt frustrated as she gritted her teeth. She knew that if Luis didn''t intentionally miss it, his third shot would also be a perfect strike.

    ''At this rate, I am going to lose!''

    Although Alicia doesn''t care much about the bet. But because of the feeling ofpetitiveness she has towards him, she didn''t want to lose. Moreover, she had already lost against him in their battle before. How could she ept defeat twice in a row?

    So when she saw that, Luis was about to take his next shot. Alicia knew she had to do something. Otherwise, she would lose.

    ''If I cheer for him, it shouldn''t be considered cheating, right?'' Alicia knew what she was doing was hical, but she decided to be shameless and shouted.

    "Luis! If you make another strike, I''ll reward you~"

    Luis, who was about to throw the ball, was startled, and the ball slipped out of his grip.

    ''Reward?! What reward?!'' He was excited, but the ball wasn''t in his hand anymore as it was rolling down thene.

    ''Oh, no!'' Luis panicked.

    ''Oh, yes!'' Alicia was excited.

    ''It will go out of thene!'' Both of them thought at the same time.

    It was easy to see that the ball was going way off course.

    ''It seems I''ll lose.'' Luis sighed. But when he thought that, Alicia mentioned some reward just now. He couldn''t help but get curious. In the end, he gritted his teeth and made a decision.

    ''Gravity!''

    He used his spell to change the direction of the ball, as it made an extraordinary curve and hit all the pins.

    That made Luis'' three strikes in a row.

    With a cheeky smile on his face that hid his guilt, Luis turned back to look at the shocked Alicia and said, "That''s my win!"

    Alicia, who was stunned, came back to her senses from his words and shouted while pointing his finger at him. "You cheated!"

    Luis was slightly nervous in his heart, but still maintaining a calm expression, he said, "Don''t use me without proof."

    "That is the line of a guilty person!" Alicia eximed.

    "What are you talking about?" Luis pretended to be confused.

    "That curve, it wasn''t realistic at all! You must have used a spell!" Although Alicia had no idea how Luis did it. She was certain that he cheated.

    Using performer talent in full throttle, Luis chuckled softly and said, "Why would I waste time learning a spell that can help me cheat in bowling?"

    Alicia couldn''t argue with that, but she didn''t budge one bit. "Even so, I am certain! You must have used some tricks!"

    "Right! Lily must have an answer!" Regaining her confidence, Alicia asked, "Lily! Tell me, how did Luis cheat?!"

    ...

    Lily was in a dilemma at this moment. Just yesterday she had been scolded by her master. She was worried that if she sided with her sister Alicia now. She might get scolded again.

    But if she sided with her master, then her sister Alicia might get angry. That is why, in the end, she chose her right to remain silent.

    Although Lily was an intelligent AI. Her emotional intelligence was not yetpletely developed. So she behaved more like a child, emotionally.

    Even after waiting for a few seconds, When Alicia didn''t get any response from Lily, a frown appeared on her face. "What happened to Lily? Why isn''t she responding?"

    Luis checked his mana bracelet and was certain that Lily was still there and there was nothing wrong with her.

    ''Don''t tell me, is she ignoring her?''

    Thinking so, Luis immediately realised the reason behind it and chuckled, ''Oh Lily, I think Alicia will be more devastated by this silence of yours than the betrayal you were so worried aboutst night.''

    Just as he expected, Alicia tapped her mana bracket anxiously. "Lily! Are you there?! Answer me!"

    She turned to look at Luis with a worried expression, and asked, "What happened to her?! Why isn''t Lily responding?!

    Luis sighed. So as not to make Alicia worry anymore, he decided to help Lily cover-up. "Well, she is going through some updates. So she is unable to answer you at the moment."

    ''Although, the excuse isme. Alicia should believe it, right?'' He thought inwardly, but contrary to his belief. Although Alicia''s anxious expression disappeared, a cold expression appeared on his face.

    "You are lying, Luis."

 Chapter 118 Reward!

    Chapter 118 Reward!

    "What makes you say that?" Luis asked while wondering whether Lily had told Alicia something aboutst night''s matter.

    ''Did Lily not heed my warning?'' Luis thought as his heart chilled down. If that is the case, Lily can''t get away with simple scolding this time. He would definitely take action.

    However, it seems he was thinking too much. As he heard Alicia''s in answer the next second. "I just instinctively knew it."

    Luis closed his mouth and swallowed back the words he prepared. He stopped ming Lily in his heart and sighed. ''In that case, nothing can be done about it.''

    After all, a woman''s instinct is an unreasonable and terrible thing, always putting us men at a disadvantage. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "So tell me, Luis, why isn''t Lily responding to me?! She was fine guiding us in the Botanical Garden before! Did something happen?!" Alicia urged.

    Luis shook his head slightly and said, "Last night, I scolded her a little. That may be the reason."

    When she heard this, Alicia''s frown deepened, as she asked, "Did she make a mistake?"

    Without breaking his eye contact with Alicia, he nodded and said, "Yeah, she did! And just so, there won''t be a second time. I warned her."

    Alicia wanted to say something, but she stopped herself. Luis was Lily''s master and no matter how good her rtionship with Lily was, she couldn''t support her if she made a mistake.

    If only Alicia knew the reason behind Lily''s scolding, she would have definitely spoken up for her.

    In the end, she pursed her lips, then said with a sigh, "Just don''t be too harsh on her, Luis."

    Luis nodded nomittally.

    "I''m serious! If I found you bullying Lily next time... I won''t talk to you," Alicia said seriously, while also threatening him.

    Her threat seemed to have worked on Luis, as he turned his head away and said, "Let''s end this matter here! Okay? Also, Lily, stop ignoring Alicia, otherwise, she will be saddened."

    {Yes, master.} Lily''s relieved voice sounded in his earpiece.

    Then Lily called out to Alicia in a low voice, {Sister Alicia...}

    "Lily, tell me if Luis bullies you again. I''ll teach him a lesson." Alicia said,forting her. "Also, don''t be so down. I like your usual self more."

    {Yes, Sister Alicia~} Lily replied with her usual cheerfulness.

    Alicia smiled and uttered, "Good girl, now tell me, how did Luis cheat?"

    Luis'' lips twitched as he stared at Alicia speechlessly. After all that, she still didn''t forget about that matter.

    With Alicia''s previous words of assurance, Lily gained herself a backbone, so she became courageous and said, {Sister Alicia, the ball''sst curve was abnormal, it''s a 97% probability that it was indeed Master''s spell in effect.}

    Lily just gave a judgment based on analysis and didn''t directly reveal the spell he used. This made Luis nod in satisfaction.

    But that is another matter. Now he needs to deal with Alicia, who was staring daggers at him.

    "So, Mr. Cheater! Do you have any say in this?"

    cing his right hand on his left chest, Luis gave a small bow and said solemnly, "Mydy, I did no such thing. If you don''t believe me, I can take another shot to prove my innocence."

    Alicia''s brows twitched seeing Luis being shameless until the very end and not admitting.

    She scoffed and said, "I will let it slide this time, but since you cheated. We are tied."

    As for giving him another chance? No way! Alicia was certain that if Luis took another shot, then it would be his win and, seeing his stubborn look, she knew that he would not admit to his cheating anytime soon. In that case, the rest of their date might get wasted, and she doesn''t want that.

    Luis showed a thoughtful expression. He could pretty much judge from Alicia''s expression that if he doesn''t agree with her now. Then the date''s entire mood is going to be ruined. He sighed and said, "Although it''s disappointing, I guess that''s fine."

    Alicia showed a grin when Luis agreed with her. ''Yesterday, I lost. Today, it''s a draw and the next time wepete. I''ll be the winner!''

    She was suddenly very optimistic about her future.

    If Luis knew about Alicia''s inner thoughts at this moment. He would definitely be dumbfounded andugh at the childish thoughts of his cute and easy-to-tease fiancee.

    ***

    After trying out a few other games, Alicia had enough of ying in the Arcade and insisted on going to the next ce.

    Inside the hover car, Luis suddenly turned to Alicia and asked, "By the way, Alicia. You haven''t told me yet! What reward am I getting?"

    Alicia, who was looking at the outside scenery, froze on the spot. She turned her head a little stiffly and said tly, "What are you talking about? It was a tie. So there''s no reward."

    Luis showed an aggrieved expression and protested, "No! What you promised was out of the scope of the bet. You promised me a reward if I made that strike, and so I did."

    Alicia chuckled softly and said, "But you cheated. So, no reward for you."

    Hearing this, Luis showed a disgruntled expression. But Alicia was very adamant about it.

    "Sigh, I wanted to know what reward you were going to give me," he muttered while shaking his head sadly.

    Alicia''s ears perked up as she raised one of her brows and asked, "Do you mean it?"

    Luis nodded seriously, "Of course."

    Showing a thoughtful look, Alicia stated, "It''s not impossible to reward you."

    ''Got her!'' Luis thought inwardly. While on the surface, he showed an intriguing expression and asked, "How?"

    Alicia tapped her chin with her finger and said, "Well, you just have to make this date a memorable one. If I am satisfied, then I''ll reward you."

    Luis showed a handsome smile and said, "Consider it done!"

    ---

    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at the next destination of their today''s date schedule. That was the indoor Shark Racing.

 Chapter 119 Shark Racing!

    Chapter 119 Shark Racing!

    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at the next destination of their today''s date schedule. That was the indoor Shark Racing.

    Shark Racing has been a popr sport in Alnaur for many decades. As its name suggests, in this game, the tamers let their sharks take part in races, either on a big pool course or the ones with hurdles, typically with substantial betting on the oue.

    The betting process is also very simple. To ce a bet, you must first choose your shark. Decide the amount and type of bet you are going to ce. Then, simply ry to the betting operator the number of the shark you have selected, the amount you wish to bet, and the type of bet you want to ce.

    ***

    Luis was sitting in the viewers'' stand along with Alicia, who was talking with the operator and cing her bet on the shark she was interested in.

    Although on the surface he had a neutral expression, inwardly he was still weirded out by the concept of this sport.

    ''This is so simr to horse racing. It''s just that there are no horses here and in ce of race tracks. We got an enormous pool.''

    ''But, can anyone tell me, WHY SHARKS?!''

    ''That predatory creature which used to scare the sh@t out of people in my previous life is just a racing fish used for entertainment in this world.''

    ''Even the tamers only tame sharks to train them into racers!''

    ''Moreover, the sharks in this world are very mild creatures. They won''t attack you unless they are cornered. They are just like dolphins.'' n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''Well, that should be the case, given how terrifying sea monsters are roaming wild in the sea. The sharks are always living on the edge and bing a racer is much better than bing someone''s food.''

    When Luis thought of this, he couldn''t help but pity them.

    ''So this is what people meant when they said Origin matters.''

    ''Those same arrogant predators who stood at the top of the chain in my previous world are just bottom feeders, barely surviving in this world.''

    *Sigh*

    By the time Luispleted his inner monologue, Alicia was also done cing her bets.

    "Which one did you ce your bet on?" Luis asked.

    Alicia gracefully adjusted her seating position and replied, "Number 5, the one with a cross scar on its fin."

    "Why, that shark specifically? Is there something special about it? Does it have any special characteristics?" Luis asked curiously because he didn''t know much about Shark Racing, and Alicia seemed quite sure about herself since she decided on the shark to bet on at a nce.

    Alicia tilted her head slightly, showing a puzzled expression, and answered, "It''s easily recognizable because of the scar."

    "... That''s it?"

    "What else?" Alicia didn''t understand why was Luis asking these questions from her. She was no expert here. "It''s my first time here. I have only heard about Shark Racing a little from Dad."

    Hearing this, Luis chuckled and said. "It seems I misunderstood."

    "Why don''t you bet on one too?" She asked.

    Luis shrugged and said, "Nah, I''d rather not do something I''m not sure about."

    "Hmm," Alicia puckered her lips, then said with an excited smile, "In that case, cheer for my shark."

    Seeing Luis nod, Alicia gave a soft smile and turned her focus back towards the pool.

    Luis continued looking at her and thought a little sadly, ''Right, how can I forget? It''s only recently that this girl started enjoying her life a little. Otherwise, where could she have been interested enough toe to such a ce?''

    Thinking so, he continued gazing at her. Alicia''s bright eyes were staring intently at the pool, waiting for the race to start.

    ''She looks so beautiful when she is cheerful like this.''

    He remembered the day of their first meeting. His first impression of her was just a pitiful heroine whose personality was a little distant.

    Cold and someone very difficult to approach.

    ''For someone like me who has always been single since birth and is awkward around girls. Getting close to her was like a hell-level difficulty.'' Luis sighed, just thinking about it.

    ''I had no idea how to make her open up. Fortunately, god blessed me and I was lucky enough to melt her heart.''

    ''Now having her beside me is one of the best things in my daily life.''

    Alicia, who was focused on the pool, felt Luis'' gaze on herself, so she turned to him and asked, "Is there something wrong?"

    Luis nodded seriously and replied, "Yes, there''s something very wrong here."

    Alicia''s expression became serious as she looked around warily. She knew Luis'' senses were way better than hers. That''s why she didn''t doubt his words and became very cautious.

    She leaned closer to him and talked in whispers. "What do you mean, Luis? Did you notice something? What''s wrong? Who is the enemy? Don''t tell me the Aiverson royal family is trying to attack us?!"

    Seeing her freaking out, Luis was amused, but he didn''t show it on his face. Gently patting her shoulder, he stated calmly, "Stop freaking out and calm down. There is nothing wrong with our surroundings. The problem is with us."

    When she heard Luis'' words, Alicia''s tensed nerves rxed a little as she looked at him with a doubtful expression and asked, "What do you mean?"

    Luis closed his eyes for a moment, then he opened them sharply and looked at her seriously. "The fault is on you, Alicia."

    "Me?" Alicia pointed at herself with a raised eyebrow.

    Luis nodded solemnly and answered, "Yes, you will one day kill me with this charm of yours. All your actions entice me. As if you are tempting me to hide you away from the world and keep you for myself."

    Then he sighed in relief and continued.

    "Fortunately, you are already mine otherwise, I don''t know what I would have done."

    When he said this, he also thought inwardly, ''Yes, I am a lucky person. Otherwise, I could have never gotten close to her.''

    ''After all, I am very awkward around girls.''

 Chapter 120 Underwater Restaurant!

    Chapter 120 Underwater Restaurant!

    Alicia looked at him with a deadpan expression and asked tly, "Anything else?"

    Luis was taken aback for a moment. ''Shouldn''t she be shy like usual?'' He didn''t expect her to react like this but shook his head, nheless.

    She snorted and turned her eyes away from him. Luis smiled awkwardly and stopped speaking further. He didn''t notice that Alicia had a small blush on her face that she was hiding well with her indifferent expression.

    After that, the race started and Luis didn''t try to tease her anymore.

    Both of them cheered loudly for the number five and, to their surprise, it did quite well at the start, too. However, it was taken over soon and lost.

    Luis looked at Alicia beside him, who seemed pretty disappointed by the result. "How much did you bet?"

    Without looking into his eyes, Alicia replied, "... 500k."

    Luis'' eyes widened in shock. "Are you for real?"

    Alicia nodded while avoiding eye contact with him.

    "But why though?" He asked. Although the money was not muchpared to their daily expenses, he couldn''t understand why aplete amateur would bet such arge amount for her first bet.

    "Um, well, I had a feeling that I would win pretty big," Alicia replied honestly.

    Luis smiled wryly, hearing her reason. ''Those are the words of a gambler who is on the verge of fall.''

    At that moment, Luis decided in his heart to keep Alicia away from gambling. It''s not that he is afraid of her wasting money. Both of their families have enough money. It''s just that he doesn''t want her to develop a bad habit. Unless, of course, she has talent in it. Then he has no objection.

    ***

    "So where to next, Luis?" Alicia asked.

    "Well, it''s near lunchtime, so let''s have lunch first," Luis said while looking at the time.

    "Hmm," Alicia thought for a moment and suggested. "Why don''t we cancel the Underwater Restaurant dinner and go there for lunch instead?"

    Luis paused for a moment. He also liked this idea, but he asked her again just in case, "You okay with that?"

    Alicia nodded and said, "Of course, why wouldn''t I be? I am the one suggesting."

    Luis tapped on his mana bracket and let Lily book a table for them immediately.

    "It''s done. Let''s go, shall we?" Luis raised his hand in front of Alicia, to which she epted with a slight blush and said. "Now you are behaving like a gentleman?"

    "Wasn''t I always one?" Luis showed a confused expression for Alicia''sment.

    Alicia snickered and denied him with augh, "No you weren''t! Grabbing a girl''s hand and embracing her without permission. That''s something a rogue does, not a gentleman."

    Luis raised one of his brows, then squinted at her and asked yfully, "Oh really? But you seem to be enjoying my rogue behaviour quite a lot."

    Alicia blushed slightly because Luis was right on the mark. Though she wouldn''t admit it.

    "I just didn''t show it and followed along with you because you are my fiance. Otherwise, I would have smashed your face directly." She said while raising her fist, showing how fierce she was.

    But much to her unexpectedness, Luis showed a joyful smile on his face. Seemingly very happy with her remark. Then, with a satisfied nod, he said, "That should be obvious. After all, you are mine and you are reserved for me alone. If someone tries something funny, don''t just smash their face, rather, beat them to a pulp."

    Alicia couldn''t hide her blush this time. Which made Luis snicker. She snorted and looked away, as if ignoring him.

    "Hey, what? Are you mad at me?" Luis knew that Alicia wasn''t angry with him. She was just shy, but he still pretended to coax her.

    "If you are so angry at me, Alicia. I''m willing to redeem myself."

    When she heard Luis'' words, Alicia was intrigued. She turned back to look at him and asked while showing her pretend anger. "How will you do that?"

    Luis took a deep breath, and while gritting his teeth, he uttered. "I am willing to sacrifice my first kiss as an apology!"

    He bit his lips and his shoulders trembled, expressing how difficult it was for him to make such a decision.

    Alicia was speechless by Luis'' performance. If she didn''t know any better, she would have really believed him.

    ''Now it looks like I''m the rogue here, forcefully taking his first kiss.''

    A tick appeared on her forehead as she thought of something.

    "Will it even be your first kiss?"

    Yes, in this life as well as the previous one.

    "I know," Alicia said with a sigh. Of course, she knows, but she still finds it hard to believe given his behaviour around girls.

    Luis nodded and replied with a serious expression, "Of course, I had always been single before I met you."

    Yes, in this life as well as the previous one.

    "I know," Alicia said with a sigh. Of course, she knows, but she still finds it hard to believe given his behaviour around girls.

    Before, she thought he was like this because he wasfortable around her. But when she saw his conversation with Emily, she had a feeling that Luis was very experienced in dealing with girls.

    That''s why, knowing his history very well from Lumine''s mouth, she finds herself confused sometimes.

    "Don''t do it now, let''s do it after setting a perfect mood. It should be a memorable one." Luis took a step back as if afraid that Alicia would jump on him anytime.

    "?��"

    "!!!"

    Alicia was annoyed as she red at him with gritted teeth.

    "I never said anything about kissing you, and don''t make me look like a pervert here! It''s you who wants a kiss! Not me!"

    "What?! Alicia! You don''t want to kiss me?!" Luis asked in shock while showing a depressed expression.

    "No, no, that''s not what I meant!" Alicia panicked, trying to exin herself.

    "Then what do you mean?!" Luis asked sadly.

    "Um, well, I meant that right now isn''t a good time," Alicia said a little shyly, trying to avoid looking at him directly.

    "I understand." Luis showed a look of understanding and stopped speaking about it further.

    Inwardly, he was smirking, seeing that his n worked.

    ''Hehe, the seed is sowed. Now that Alicia is thinking about the kiss, she will subconsciously prepare herself in her mind and when the time is opportune, she won''t have much shyness or hesitation at that time of our first kiss.''

    ***

    A few minutester, Luis and Alicia found themselves at the entrance of the Deep Sea restaurant, where they would have their underwater lunch.

    As they entered, Luis told them his name, and they were asked to follow them to their reserved table.

    After going down 150 feet underwater through the elevator, they finally arrived at the dining area of the restaurant where they would have their lunch.

    "It''s beautiful, right?" Luis asked Alicia, while he himself was amazed by the scene in front of him.

    Alicia beside him nodded and eximed, "Yes, it''s fantastic!"

    Luis smiled at her, and then the two of them took a seat facing each other.

    The dining area was surrounded by ss, and on its other side was the vast ocean. It offered them a 270-degree panoramic view of the colourful coral life.

    While Luis read the menu, Alicia''s attention was on the colourful fishes behind the ss beside her.

    "It''s so mesmerizing. Is this what Merfolk gets to see every day?"

    Alicia murmured, but an unfamiliar voice answered her.

    "Yeah, but the ocean isn''t just beautiful. It''s also very dangerous. Those fish can live here because of the barrier surrounding the Archipgo. That keeps the dangerous monsters away."

    Luis put the menu down and hoisted his head to look at the person in the waiter''s uniform standing near them.

    But the next second, Luis was surprised when he saw his physical characteristics. ''Wow, is he a-''

    He didn''t get to continue his thought as Alicia eximed aloud on behalf of him. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "A Merfolk!"

    Alicia observed him curiously, then frowned. "No, he doesn''t have a tail! Is he a Murloc?! But I thought they looked disgusting. Although not handsome, he still looks human enough!"

    While Alicia was contemting, her every word pierced the waiter''s heart like a sharp arrow.

    The waiter raised his head, barely squeezing out an ugly smile, and said, "Miss, although I am not as handsome as this gentleman here. Please, don''t call me ugly."

    When Alicia heard his words, she showed a confused look and stated, "I never called you ugly."

    She was only looking at him curiously because this was her first time seeing a Merfolk. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have bothered talking to him.

    ''Wait, is he really a Merfolk, though?'' Thinking of this, she again looked at him curiously and asked, "Anyway, what are you?"

    The waiter exined with a sigh, "I am a half-breed. My father was a human and my mother was a siren."

    Showing the scales on his right arm, he exined, "I don''t have a tail, but I do have scales, eyes, ears, and some other features that I inherited from my mother."

    After his exnation, Alicia nodded her head in understanding and lost her interest. She picked up the menu indifferently and started reading it.

    Luis had an amused look on his face, looking at the waiter''s depressed expression. From his exnation, he had already ascertained the identity of the person in front of him.

 Chapter 121 Request!

    Chapter 121 Request!

    From his exnation, Luis had already ascertained the identity of the person in front of him. But he didn''t care about that for now. He was on a date, so why should he care about other people?

    Along with Alicia, he made the order. Then the two of them had a wonderful lunch as they chatted about random things and spent their alone time together while looking at the coral view around them.

    ***

    "Mermaid''s Dive is not open at the moment. So we can''t do that for now. Shall we go surfing?" Luis asked.

    Alicia showed a contemtive look, then sighed and said, "Let''s not go surfing today. I don''t want to change out of this dress."

    Hearing this, Luis nodded in understanding and uttered, "Then shall we spend the rest of our time at the beach?"

    Alicia agreed, so the two of them made their way towards the beach.

    ***

    The beach wasn''t very crowded, but there were still people around.

    They yed around in water and made sand castles with children. Alicia was having a hard time sculpting in the sand, so she used her Ice element to create a miniature castle.

    All in all, they enjoyed each other''spany, as the time of the sunset wasing close. They were walking together at the seashore, as the small waves gently hit their feet, giving a pleasant feeling.

    "That castle you made was so majestic, Alicia," Luis said suddenly, breaking the silence between them.

    Hearing his sincere praise, Alicia chuckled and said, "Yes, but what''s the point of it? It''s not a sand castle when it''s made of Ice!"

    "Yeah," Luis also chuckled along with her and said, "But the kids liked your castle a lot."

    Alicia nodded, showing a soft smile.

    "..."

    The two of them once again became quiet, but a momentter, Alicia asked a question that made Luis stop in his tracks.

    "Luis, why did you use your Illusion magic in the test?"

    He turned to look at her and asked, "Why are you asking that?"

    Alicia narrowed her eyes and said, "I don''t think there was any need for an illusion spell at that time. You could have eliminated me easily."

    "..." Luis gave a faint smile and said with a sigh, "Actually, fighting with you was fine and all. But to eliminate you, I had to kill you in the VR world. Although I knew it was fake, I still couldn''t bear to do it with my hands. That''s why I used Illusion on you."

    Hearing Luis'' reason, Alicia blinked her eyes cutely, thenughed.

    "Haha, that''s so silly, Luis!"

    "I never imagined there to be such a reason."

    Though she wasughing, in her heart she felt very sweet when she heard Luis'' exnation behind his actions. Of course, she won''t tell him about this.

    "Haha~"

    Alicia giggled and her chime-likeughter made Luis smile along with her.

    A few secondster, Alicia''sughter subsided. Then she heard Luis say. "You asked me a question. Can I ask you something too?"

    "Sure, ask me anything," Alicia replied with a smile while wondering what he wanted to ask her.

    With a faint smile on his face, Luis asked, "What were you going to ask me yesterday before you hesitated?"

    When Luis asked this, Alicia''s expression became awkward as she said, "It wasn''t something important."

    "Hmm, really?" Luis got close to her and said, "But the expression you made yesterday makes it hard for me to believe your words, Alicia."

    "..." Alicia stood there silently, not answering.

    Seeing this, Luis pressed her a little more.

    "Tell me, Alicia, what were you hesitating about?"

    "..." But she still didn''t say anything.

    *Sigh*

    "You should know Alicia, I really care about you and you have be an irreceable person in my heart. Though we started as strangers, we are engaged now and I want to get closer to you more, further deepening our rtionship. That''s why please don''t hesitate with me and speak your mind freely. So I can understand you better," Luis stated to her directly.

    Alicia looked at Luis''s handsome face while blinking in session. She didn''t expect him to say something like that. But his statement also made her happy. Because she felt the same. She also preferred them to be straightforward with each other.

    Although she thought like this, she had to clear something first, "No, Luis, it''s not that I was hesitant, it''s just that I was embarrassed."

    Hearing this, Luis showed a surprised expression and said. "Go on."

    "Actually, it''s not that big of a deal, Luis."

    "Just tell me already, you don''t have to be embarrassed, Alicia. I am your future husband, remember?" Luisforted her while inwardly his curiosity was peaking.

    ''What did she want to ask me that could make her so embarrassed? Don''t tell me that Alicia... Hehehe...'' n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''If that is the case then, although it''s a surprise, but a wee one indeed.''

    While Luis'' thoughts were running wild. Alicia twirled her fingers while avoiding eye contact with him and with a reddened face she finally asked, "I wanted to know if there''s any way you can help me with my cultivation."

    Luis'' mind cleared instantly, and he was brought back to reality as if cold water were poured on him.

    "Is this what you were hesitating about... I mean embarrassed to ask me?"

    Alicia nodded, a little embarrassed, and exined, "Although I also got a lot of training from Aunt Lumine, even after all that, I still can''t keep up with your improvement in strength."

    "I am afraid that with just hard work and training, it will be difficult for me to keep up with your progress. So I wanted to know if you had any ideas or suggestions that might help me."

    "But asking for your help without giving anything in return made me embarrassed. So I didn''t ask at that time."

    Only then did Luis understand Alicia''s thoughts. ''No wonder she reacted like that.''

    ''This silly girl,'' Luis sighed with a helpless smile and said, "Alicia, I''ve told you already, you can ask me anything without hesitation. Whether I can help you with that or not is a talk forter."

 Chapter 122 Sleep With Me!

    Chapter 122 Sleep With Me!

    ''This silly girl,'' Luis sighed with a helpless smile and said, "Alicia, I''ve told you already, you can ask me anything without hesitation. Whether I can help you with that or not is a talk forter."

    Alicia showed a small frown and said, "Am I not selfish if I do such a thing? I should give something back to you too if I ask for something, right? Even if I am your fiancee I don''t want to take advantage of this position and use you."

    When he heard Alicia''s words, Luis smiled and said, "What you said isn''t wrong, Alicia, because most people will do as you say. But I am certain you are not like those people."

    Alicia''s blush eased a bit as she asked with a crescent smile. "What makes you so sure? What if I am just acting on the outside while inwardly I am thinking somethingpletely different?"

    ''Well, I am aware of your personality from the game.'' But of course, he couldn''t say that. So he decided to exin to her differently. "People like that would have already started demanding for my secrets not requesting for help for an equivalent price."

    Alicia showed a serious expression as she contemted his words. Seeing this, Luis asked her a question, "Then answer me, Alicia, what would you have done if I had made a simr request from you without giving you anything inpensation?"

    She showed a confused expression, wondering why he asked this, nheless; she answered instantly. "Of course! I will help you!"

    Hearing her answer, Luis had an as-expected expression on his face as showed a grin and said, "There you have your answer, Alicia."

    "I have the same feeling as you. So it''s not about being selfish or not. Everything depends on the rtionship we have and how we feel about each other."

    "You are sincerely willing to help me even withoutpensation and so am I. That is because it''s you, Alicia."

    "Now do you understand?" Luis asked, to which Alicia nodded with a beautiful smile.

    Embracing her closer to him, he pointed towards the sea and said, "Isn''t the sunset beautiful?"

    "It sure is," Alicia said with a smile and leaned closer to him, without being embarrassed this time.

    The two of them sat down in silence while enjoying each other''s warm embrace and the beautiful sunset on the horizon.

    Only after some time had passed and the sun waspletely set did Luis stand up with Alicia. Then uttered, "By the way, Alicia. Even if you hadn''t asked, I had already nned a few things for you."

    "Are you for real?" Alicia asked in surprise.

    "Of course!" Luis affirmed.

    ***

    Since their date was over, Luis and Alicia returned to their hotel and had their dinner. The adults weren''t with them. After wiping his mouth, Luis asked, "So, Alicia, how was the date? Are you satisfied?"

    Alicia nodded with a smile and said, "It was a great day! I am very satisfied!"

    Hearing this, Luis showed a wide grin and asked, "Then what about my reward you promised?"

    "That." Alicia didn''t know what to say for a moment, since she hadn''t thought at all about what to give him. After a moment of thought, she said, "Well, you can make one request as a reward."

    Then she immediately warned, "But the request shouldn''t be excessive."

    "Of course, no problem." Luis smiled, then said his request. "Sleep with me!"

    Alicia''s mind went nk for a second, and then she looked at him with a cold expression.

    Luis knew what Alicia was thinking, so he immediately exined, "No, you misunderstood me. When I said sleeping, I meant literally nothing else. I just want to try hugging you to sleep like a body pillow." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Then he added inwardly, ''Although I want to do other things too. It seems Alicia isn''t ready yet. Sigh''

    Hearing Luis'' rification, Alicia''s cold expression returned to normal and then she contemted. After a moment, she nodded and agreed with a blush. "Only for tonight. Also, remember if you try something while we are asleep, I''ll freeze that part of yours."

    "Aren''t you being too cruel? If you do that, what will happen to our next generation?" Luis wasining, when suddenly he felt a slight chill in his crotch area.

    "Do I have to repeat myself?" Alicia asked with a deadpan expression. Luis shook his head nervously. At this moment, Luis felt that Alicia might really do what she said if he did something.

    ***

    Alicia went to her room and brought a set of clothes. Then she changed into a pink nightgown in Luis'' bathroom.

    Luis, who was bare-chested, looked at her with an intense gaze. ''Damn, she looks so sexy in that nightgown! Will we really just sleep? Isn''t her appearance now a clear invitation?''

    "Why are you half naked?" Alicia asked with a blush.

    Luis smirked and said, "I prefer sleeping like this."

    Of course, he wouldn''t tell her the real reason was that he wanted to feel her more and hoped for something to happen.

    Alicia snorted while trying to hide her blush and said, "Who are you kidding? I know you sleep with clothes on."

    Being caught, it did not embarrass Luis as he said shamelessly, "That''s only when I am in my bed at home. In other ces, I can''t get a good sleep if I wear something on top."

    Alicia was speechless. "That was themest excuse I have ever heard."

    Luis didn''t reply to her and quietlyy on the bed on one side and patted on the other. "Come on, my wife~ Your hubby is waiting~"

    Alicia blushed at the way he referred to them. She took a deep breath to calm herself and, without answering him back, she quietlyy on the bed with some distance from him.

    ''Hehe,'' Luis chuckled inwardly, wondering if Alicia was shy. ''Maybe we will enter the next step tonight.''

    Thinking of this, Luis tried to touch her chest. But the next second, his hand went numb and he couldn''t sense it. When he took a look at it, he found that his hand was frozen in a block of ice.

    ''It seems she really meant what she said. *Sigh*'' Luis sighed then used his lightning to melt the ice.

 Chapter 123 Misunderstanding!

    Chapter 123 Misunderstanding!

    The next morning.

    Lumine woke up early and was on her way towards Alicia''s room. Her steps were light and there was an excited smile on her face.

    ''I don''t know if Alicia is awake or not? Last night, they had dinner quite early without us and I couldn''t ask her about their date.'' Thinking of this, Lumine pouted.

    "It doesn''t matter. I''ll go ask her now and get all the juicy details out of her mouth."

    Lumine couldn''t contain her thrill at the idea of Alicia''s embarrassed expression when she teases herter after obtaining all the interesting information.

    *Knock* *Knock*

    At the door of the room where Alicia was staying, Lumine knocked and called out. "Alicia, are you awake?"

    Waiting for a few seconds, Lumine didn''t get any reply.

    ''Is she still asleep?'' She wondered, while pondering if she shoulde backter. ''But I really want to know. Otherwise, I''ll lose my appetite for breakfast.''

    Her curiosity got the best of her, so she decided to be impolite�� I mean be a considerate mother-inw who wakes up her daughter-inw.

    Before entering the room, she tried to sense Alicia but frowned a momentter. ''She isn''t inside her room. Where is she?''

    She was thinking of releasing her power to sense Alicia, but then she decided to ask Lily first.

    "Lily, do you know where Alicia is?"

    Lily''s hologram appeared on her mana bracelet as she answered. {Mom, Sister Alicia is with Master.}

    "With Luis? This early." Lumine mumbled unexpectedly.

    Lily nodded her head and stated innocently, "She slept in the Master''s roomst night."

    Lumine''s eyes widened in disbelief, "Are you serious?"

    {Yes.} Lily replied, not knowing the level of shock she had given to Lumine with her words and the misunderstanding she created.

    ***

    As the morning sunlight filtered through the curtain and fell on Luis, his eyes fluttered open. Then he looked at his side and a wry smile appeared on his face.

    ''We literally just slept! Forget hugging! She didn''t even let me touch her! Wherever I tried getting close to her, she would freeze a part of my body! Isn''t she too cruel?!''

    Gazing at her beautiful sleeping face, Luis really wanted to give her a kiss as punishment for torturing him the entire night.

    "Are you going to continue staring at me or get up from the bed?" Alicia said as she opened her beautiful aquamarine eyes, staring back at him.

    Luis was in a daze for a moment, then said. "You know Alicia, getting to see you the first thing after waking up, I feel like I''m going to be happy for the rest of the day."

    Hearing this, Alicia showed a smile and asked, "Just for one day? Shouldn''t you be happy a little more?"

    Luis smiled and replied, "Well, it works only for a day. So, I suggest it''s better if we sleep together every day. That way, I''ll always be happy and full of energy."

    Alicia chuckled. She expected that kind of cheeky response from him. "In your dreams! Now get up! We should go have breakfast with everyone. Then we will return to the Tryston City."

    Last night, they got notifications in their mana bracelet. Which gave them their dormitory information and asked them to get settled there within a week. In other words, the sses will begin a weekter.

    ''Hm, it''s enough time for me to help Alicia get that Sword Art.'' Luis thought inwardly while getting up from the bed.

    ''In the game, Alicia got that Sword Art in her third year, which I think was kind of a waste given her talent. Because she never got to master itpletely. She was mixed up in various political struggles and the problems that Uncle David was facing. After that, her search for Aunt Maria''s enemies also brought results. In the end, she didn''t have enough time to master that Sword Art.''

    ''But even then, on the route in which she ends up fighting to death. In her fight with Orneus, she showed amazing swordsmanship, which was probably that undeveloped Sword Art. She alone faced Orneus while surviving from the attacks of the protagonist''s party, who had decided to side with Orneus.''

    Thinking of this, anger red inside Luis, which he calmed down by taking a deep breath. ''Let''s not think about them now. Or I might not control myself and end up killing them!''

    ''Anyway, what I am sure of is that Alicia''s Sword Art was a powerful one, but she didn''t have enough time to fully master it.''

    That''s why he decided to help her get it now before the sses begin. So that Alicia canpletely master it or even develop it to a higher level, making full use of her talent and potential.

    As Luis was about to enter his bathroom, he paused and turned back to look at Alicia. "By the way, I wanted to ask you something."

    "What is it?" Alicia looked at him as she got up.

    Showing a serious expression, he asked, "Do you have a freezing fetish or something?" Alicia deadpanned, "Do you want me to freeze you into an ice block and then throw you into the ocean?"

    As she said that, she also raised her hand and ice particles appeared floating around her hand.

    Luis shuddered and tried to talk this out peacefully. "Aren''t you being too cruel? I just asked a question because you kept freezing my limbsst night."

    Alicia snorted, "If you had kept yourself in control. Then nothing would have happened."

    "I just wanted to hug you!" Luis uttered in grievance. Only he knows how much he suffered.

    "If I had allowed you to hug me. I am certain you wouldn''t have been able to control yourself." Alicia stated.

    Luis closed his mouth, as he couldn''t argue back this time. He knew in his heart that Alicia was right. So, he silently entered the bathroom without retorting.

    Alicia smirked seeing this and then thought with a slight blush, ''If I had allowed him to hug me, I would not have been able to get a wink of sleep.''

    ***

    After getting ready, Luis and Alicia went to have breakfast. Where they saw the three adults waiting for them.

    "Good morning, everyone!" Luis said with a handsome smile. Followed by Alicia who also smiled and greeted them. "Good morning!"

    "Morning, Luis, Alicia, had a good sleep?" Lumine asked them with a smirk.

    Luis and Alicia didn''t notice anything wrong and nodded simultaneously.

    David on the side was depressed and felt his heart ache. As he nced at Alicia, he felt sad and sighed again and again, thinking that his little girl now grew up into a woman. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yes, Lumine had told them what she had heard from Lily.

    ''It''s all this brat!'' Looking at Luis, he really wanted to shoot a punch in his face. But thinking that he was her daughter''s future husband, he barely held himself back.

    Ronald, on the other hand, was very proud of his son. While at the same time excited that the next generation of the Suarez Family would probably be born sooner than he expected. Joyfully, he gave a nod to Alicia, very satisfied with his daughter-inw.

    They gave their orders and then took their seats. Alicia sat beside Lumine and Luis sat in the seat next to David, oblivious to any danger.

    "Alicia, how was your date yesterday? Did you have fun?" Lumine asked slyly.

    Alicia had expected her to ask this question. With a smile on her face, she replied, "Yes, it was wonderful. We visited many ces��"

    Then Alicia started recounting the ces they visited, and everyone listened to her heart-soothing voice quietly. Of course, she hid many details, such as Luis''s flirting, for which he was very grateful in his heart.

    "Number 5 lost and so did I," Alicia said with a depressed sigh, which made everyoneugh.

    When she mentioned their lunch in the underwater restaurant. Everyone''s eyes brightened.

    "Wow, there is such a wonderful restaurant here now!" Lumine eximed, feeling quite interested in it.

    Ronald also sighed and uttered, "When we studied here, there was no such interesting ce."

    Lumine elbowed him and said, "We should also go there in the future."

    "Of course!" Ronald replied with a smile.

    ��

    "Then we returned to the hotel." After Aliciapleted sharing her experience. Lumine said with a sigh. "It must have been a wonderful date."

    Then she looked at Luis and mumbled. "I didn''t expect Luis to n such an exciting date."

    "You should have confidence in your son, Mom," Luis said with a smug grin.

    Lumine smiled and said, "Yeah, but you always surpass my expectations."

    Luis didn''t think that Lumine had any different meaning behind her words. So, he said with a smile. "Just wait and see how I make you all proud of me."

    Ronald shook his head and replied, "We are already very proud!" When he said that, he also gave a nce at Alicia.

 Chapter 124 Dorms!

    Chapter 124 Dorms!

    "What do you think?" Ronald asked.

    "Nothing happened between them," Lumine replied.

    "Seriously?" Ronald eximed, seemingly annoyed.

    Lumine nodded affirmatively. "Looking at Alicia''s current state, I''m certain."

    Ronald sighed and shook his head disappointedly. "And here I was, hoping to see my grandchildren early."

    After taking another sigh, he said, "I''ll go tell David. He has been very depressed since this morning."

    "Wait!" Ronald was about to leave when suddenly Lumine grabbed his hand to stop him.

    "Let''s not tell him for now," Lumine said with a serious expression.

    "Why?" Ronald asked in confusion.

    "I have a feeling that there might be an interesting drama to watch if we don''t clear David''s misunderstanding," Lumine exined her intention with an excited smile on her face.

    "Are you serious?" Ronald asked speechlessly, looking at his odd drama-obsessed wife. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Don''t worry, nothing will happen�� probably�� Even if something happens, you can calm him down with your wine collection. Right?" Lumine shrugged with a nonchnt expression.

    Ronald was stunned for a moment. Although he didn''t want to sacrifice his precious wine collection. Since his wife made a request, he decided to follow along.

    "Fine." Nodding in acquiescence, Ronald turned to look at the sea and frowned. "I''ll go talk with the yacht''s captain."

    ***

    Currently, they all were on their luxurious yacht in the waters of the Aiverson Empire, taking a ride back to Tuxel City. After breakfast, they immediately left for the dock as their yacht had been docked there since Ronald and David came with it.

    A few hourster, they arrived at Tuxel City and immediately used a transport circle from the hub, returning to their estate in Tryston City.

    But just as they arrived, David and Ronald used Transport Circle again and left for somewhere, saying that they had work to do. Luis and the others didn''t think much about it and returned to the mansion.

    "Ahh~ Finally back home~" As soon as she entered the mansion, Lumine eximed with a smile. Then she turned to look at Alicia, who had Ivy wrapped her tail around her neck like a scarf.

    Seeing this, Lumine smiled. "She is not leaving your side. Huh."

    Alicia smiled helplessly and while rubbing Ivy''s fur, she said, "It''s because she didn''t get to see me yesterday."

    She was also a little guilty about it, but she didn''t want any distractions on her date. The night before her date, Alicia had left Ivy in Lumine''s care and only this morning she got to see her again. It must have made Ivy anxious because she didn''t get to see Alicia and now, she was unwilling to leave her side even for a second.

    "You betterfort her then," Lumine said with a smile, to which Alicia nodded.

    At this moment, Luis spoke. "I''m going to myb, guys. See youter."

    "Are you going to move yourb too, Luis?" Lumine asked curiously.

    Luis nodded and said, "You have seen my pocket space. I''m going to transfer everything inside."

    Lumine expected something like that from him. After she had been to that space. "I''m really interested in how much your space will increase when you reach C rank. Maybe another 10 times."

    Luis chuckled and said, "You are not thinking about Dad''s guess, right?"

    "Not to that exaggeration, but I''m still interested," Lumine admitted since she was indeed curious.

    At that moment Alicia''s voice sounded, "You broke through to Order Rank?!"

    Seeing Luis nod, she asked with a small frown, "When?"

    "On the day of our exam after our fight. When you guys left, after the interrogation�� I mean the discussion; Ipleted my breakthrough." He answered honestly.

    "Why didn''t you tell me?" Alicia pouted.

    Luis rubbed the back of his head and said awkwardly. "Well�� surprise!"

    ***

    Returning to hisb, Luis checked the machines that were being operated by Lily and looked through the results and data of the experiments that had been conducted in his absence.

    "Good job, Lily. You have been working hard."

    Lily, who was wearing a white researcher coat above her dress, became embarrassed, hearing Luis'' praise. {Master, these minor projects are going smoothly, but the major project [Dimensional Paradox] you asked me to focus on hasn''t made any progress yet."

    Hearing this, Luis waved his hand and said, "It''s fine. We already knew it wouldn''t be easy. Without any prior research data, we are starting from scratch with no information or basis. So, it''s normal to not make any progress. Just keep trying different forms and continue with your search for ancient records. I''m sure we will find something, eventually."

    ---

    After his inspection, Luis started shifting his entireb inside his pocket space. Within a few minutes, he hadpletely transferred everything. Lily''s chip was also transferred inside. Which further ensured her security. Before, Luis had given her a small ess channel through his spatial magic to let her keep operating constantly both inside the pocket space and the outside world without interruption.

    Then Luis returned to his room, and within an hour, he packed his luggage and put it inside his mana bracelet.

    "Phew~ It''s done!"

    "Should I go see if Alicia is done with her luggage? Nah, scratch that."

    ''I better spend today resting. From tomorrow, I''ll get busy either increasing my strength or getting mixed up in all the drama and plots of the game.'' Thinking so, Luis spent the rest of his dayzing in his room.

    ***

    The day ended fast, and the next day, Luis and Alicia, after saying goodbye to their parents, left for the academy using the same route via Tuxel City.

    Of course, Luis didn''t miss the chance to flirt with Alicia as the hours went by in a sh and they once again stepped onto the Main Ind of the Oracle Archipgo.

    Then, with the help of Lily''s navigation, they made their way towards the dorms allotted to them.

    "Is this the ce where we will be staying? It looks quite good from the outside at least," Alicia mumbled, looking at the luxurious building in front of her.

    Luis nodded and said, "Yeah, let''s see how good it is from the inside."

    As the two of them entered the building, they met a tall brown man with an afro hairstyle looking at them with a smile.

    "Wee to the S ss dorm students! I am the dorm manager here, called Vincent. But before we proceed, I would like to see the notification the two of you have received and verify your ID here. Please." The man named Vincent asked politely, while his eyes were focused on Luis, making him feel a little creepy.

    ''What''s up with this man? Why do I feel ufortable with his gaze?'' Luis thought as he observed Vincent with a frown.

    Alicia didn''t think much and proceeded with the verification.

    "All done! Student Alicia Raven, you have been allotted room number 2 as per your student ranking on the first floor. After you have moved in your luggage, you cane and get your Student ID from thedy dorm manager named Jasmine." Vincent exined, then seeing Alicia nod in response, he shifted his focus on Luis.

    Luis hid his doubts to himself and proceeded with the verification.

    "Student Luis Suarez, you have been allotted room number 1 as per your student ranking on the first floor. Please get settled, then get your Student ID as I exined to student Alicia."

    "Yes, Mr. Vincent!" Luis replied, showing a fake polite smile, then immediately left with Alicia after getting the directions.

    All this time, Vincent has been observing Luis with a glint in his eyes.

    ***

    This S ss dorm is for all the students with S grade evaluations from all three years. The first and second floors have ts for first-year students, the third and fourth floors for second years and the fifth and sixth floors for third years. On the other floor is where the rest of the facilities are provided for the students'' use.

    There are six different dorms for all the students, differentiated by evaluation grade criteria. Along with the privileges they will receive while in the academy.

    S grade (1 �C 20) - Privileges: Luxurious t, Private Gym, Private Pool, Private Meditation Room, Mini Garden, VR Cabins, high-grade spiritual meals in the cafeteria, Resources such as Pills, Potions, Weapons, Private Training Room, Direct advice from the teaching facility and many other benefits. A grade (21 �C 50) - A normal t, Private Gym, VR Cabins, high-grade meals in the cafeteria, and Resources such as Pills, Potions, and Weapons.

    B grade (51 �C 100) - A single room t, VR head gears, Resources such as Pills, Potions, and Weapons.

    C grade (101 �C 200) - A single room, VR head gears.

    D grade (201 �C 350) - A Two-person shared room. (Male and Female separately.)

    E grade (351 �C 600) - A 5-person shared room. (Male and Female separately.)

    Of course, there are many facilities that all the students are allowed to use and even if a low-grade student wants to use better facilities, he can use his merits.

 Chapter 125 The Wife Destroys Her Husband’s Harem!

    Chapter 125 The Wife Destroys Her Husband��s Harem!

    After moving to their dorm rooms, or more precisely, their ts. Luis and Alicia got their Student ID from thedy dorm manager named Jasmine and registered it to their mana bracelets.

    Jasmine had brown curly hair and seemed to be quite an easygoing and proactive person. She seemed to have taken a liking to Alicia, or more precisely, Ivy, because of her cuteness. This made Alicia have a favorable opinion of her.

    After getting their IDs, the two of them spent the rest of the day getting familiar with the facilities inside their dorm and the ces nearby. They avoided going to the upperssmen''s floors, leading to limited interaction. Furthermore, most students from the same year in this dorm had not yet arrived. So, they didn''t get to see any familiar faces.

    ---

    In the evening after dinner.

    Luis was sitting on his couch browsing through some online articles, trying to see if any of them were of relevance or connected to the game''s plot. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''There is no news about any dungeon copse incidents, but there are many cases of murders in unauthorized dungeons popping up.''

    Unauthorized dungeons are those dungeons whose rights are not owned by anyone. Those dungeons attract many explorers because there is no entry fee. But for that reason, there''s also ack of security and monitoring of those dungeons. Which makes it a perfect ce for killers to murder someone.

    There are also some types of unauthorized dungeons that are forbidden to enter because of their unusual nature. They are called Skull Dungeons; the skull here represents the warning sign.

    ''I don''t know if these murder cases are somehow rted to those psychopathic maniacs.''

    ''In the game, that incident happened around 2 months after the academy started. When Alex and his friends encountered those maniacs on an academic egression and saved the lives of many innocent people.''

    ''Of course, Alex and the other students couldn''t defeat them alone. If not for the timely protection of Professor Olivia, they would have died.''

    ''Even so, it was still amendable feat, and Alex gained quite some poprity because of it. His heroic deed of saving innocent people from those murderers attracted the attention of Urs, and that was the start of her conquest route.''

    As Luis thought about this, he rubbed his chin and pondered. ''Should I use them? Although they aren''t very strong, they do have quite some unique abilities.''

    ''Those maniacs don''t deserve to live anyway and considering their inhuman deeds, I don''t have to worry about morality if I make them my puppets by erasing their will.''

    After thinking about it a little more, Luis decided. ''I''ll let Lily find the clues about those maniacs early and catch them before they cause extensive damage.''

    ''I should also focus on the project [Human Puppet] and finish it fast. So that I can use them right after I catch them.''

    Luis waved his hand to close the hologram projection in front of him, then turned to look at the person sitting on the sofa and asked with a smile. "Alicia, how long are you nning to stay in my room? Or did you reconsider your decision and agree to sleep with me from now on?"

    "NO!" Alicia responded sharply.

    He had already expected her rejection, but was still somewhat disappointed, "�� Then why don''t you return to your room?"

    With a small frown, Alicia asked, "Why do you want me to go back? Do you not enjoy mypany?"

    Looking at her dissatisfied expression, Luis smiled faintly and then passionately replied, "Of course I love it! I would prefer to keep you by my side all the time!"

    "Then I don''t want to go back this early," Alicia said with a small pout.

    "As you wish, my wife," Luis teased while coaxing her and suggested. "Hmm�� then how about we watch a movie together?"

    "Which movie?" Alicia asked with interest. While she remembered what Lily had told her the other day, Luis preferred seeing movies with her. Now, hearing Luis'' suggestion, she has confirmed that what Lily said was indeed the truth, and this realization made her very shy and ted.

    "Well, I am not very familiar with the popr movies. Why don''t you choose one?" He did watch movies, but that was in his previous life. In this world, his knowledge of movies is very limited. That''s why he asked her to decide and didn''t share his preferences.

    Alicia thought for a moment and said, "In that case, let''s watch the movie Aunt Lumine rmended to me."

    "Oh, what genre is it?" Luis asked curiously.

    "It''s a thriller romance!" Alicia replied.

    Luis nodded, thinking that a thriller romance movie would probably be quite interesting. Then he entered his VR cabin room and brought out two VR headbands for them to use.

    "Lily, connect the VR headbands and then y the movie that Alicia wants us to see," Luis ordered Lily, as he was toozy to set up everything. Then they wore the headbands and waited for Lily to activate them.

    Lily did as she was told, then appearing in front of them in the VR menu space she asked, {Sister Alicia, which movie do you want me to y?}

    Alicia looked at Lily with a smile and said, "Lily, y that popr movie, [The Wife Destroys Her Husband''s Harem!], I think this movie also got some awards."

    {Ah! Found it, Sister Alicia! Wait a second, I''ll start ying!}

    While Lily was starting the movie, Luis was standing on the side with a dumbfounded expression after hearing the name of the movie. Then a wry smile appeared on his face.

    ''For the next time, I better do some research on the movies.''

    Then the movie started, and although Luis was weirded out by the name of the movie at first. He still found it interesting, as the main female lead killed all the members of her husband''s harem in many intriguing ways.

    Alicia, for some reason, was very satisfied that Luis was enjoying the movie.

 Chapter 126 Promise!

    Chapter 126 Promise!

    The next morning.

    When Luis woke up, he felt some silky hair tickling his cheeks. Then, feeling the warmth and the touch of the person he was embracing, a grin appeared on his face. He opened his eyes to see his beautiful fianc��e nestled in his arms. Her beautiful smile as she slept in his embracefortably made him ted.

    ''Damn! Last night after the movie we slept together, and she stated the same conditions from before. But how did we end up sleeping like this? It must be her who got close to me, as I don''t seem to have moved from my side.''

    ''Since she took the initiative, I didn''t break any conditions. So, I should be safe from her freezing fetish.'' Luis thought as he tried to feel her more. But because of his movements, Alicia also woke up from her sleep as she opened her eyes to look at him.

    "Good morning, my wife~ How wasst night? Were you satisfied?" Luis asked with a teasing smile.

    Alicia blushed subtly but tried to hide it with her indifferent face. She knew that he was teasing her so as not to be outdone this time; she replied confidently. "Hmm, it was alright. I think you need more experience."

    "Oh, is that so?" Luis made a surprised expression, then said, "If that''s the case, then I think I should ask other girls and increase my experience so that I can satisfy you."

    "YOU DARE!!!" Alicia shot a re and, gritting her teeth, she said, "DIDN''T YOU LEARN ANY LESSON FROM LAST NIGHT''S MOVIE?!"

    ''As expected, no wonder Mom rmended her to watch that movie with me. They deliberately set everything up. It wasn''t just a movie; rather, it was a warning for me!'' Inwardly Luis was speechless as heughed helplessly at their silly tricks.

    But on the outside, he showed a serious expression and said, "Yes, I''ve learned my lesson. And to reflect on my mistake, I''ve decided to research the kind of movies girls prefer so that I can satisfy you with my choice next time."

    "What?!" Alicia frowned in confusion.

    "What?" Luis raised his brow in confusion.

    "Were you talking about watching movies with me?" Alicia asked.

    "Well, yeah, what else did you think? That is the only thing we didst night, right?" Luis asked with an innocent expression.

    Alicia didn''t have any words to refute him, because what he said was indeed the truth. But that is not what she was talking about and seeing the wide smirk on his face, she knew he was messing with her.

    "Don''t mess with me, Luis. This is serious!" Alicia said with a stern expression.

    Luis sighed and asked, "What are you even worried about, Alicia?"

    "��" Alicia didn''t speak as she turned her head away from him.

    He understood that she didn''t intend to say anything, so he facepalmed and spoke. "Is it because of how familiarly I chatted with those girls and my ns regarding them? Are you worried that I would start liking them, too?"

    Alicia didn''t speak and just nodded her head silently, expressing that he was right. That is indeed what she was worried about. But now that they were talking about this matter, she was scared to get the answer from him, afraid that her worst thought maye true.

    If it was before, she wouldn''t have cared and just cancelled her engagement with him. But now she has started to be aware of her feelings and that is the reason. She felt scared when she saw his video talking with other girls and learned his intentions of getting close to them.

    Even though she didn''t show it on her face, it seems Lumine understood her heart and suggested watching that movie with him.

    Now, because of Lumine''s suggestion, Alicia was finally ready to confront him about this matter.

    *Sigh*

    Luis sighed heavily and facepalmed again. Then looked at Alicia as if he was looking at an idiot.

    Alicia felt offended by this look. But seeing that he still wasn''t answering her, she frowned, then clenching her fists, she gathered up her courage and decided to ask directly.

    "All those girls are the ones with high status and beauty, not worse than me. If you want, I am certain that you can attract them. That Is why I want to know..."

    With a nk expression on her face, her trembling hands clutched the nket tightly and tears bawled out from her eyes as she peered into his eyes and asked with an almost choking voice.

    "... Will you create a... harem in the future?"

    *Thwack*

    But what she received wasn''t an answer but a loving head chop.

    "Ouch! What was that for?" Alicia asked grievingly. Not knowing if it was because of the head chop or that he didn''t answer her question.

    "For your stupidity!" Luis said with a helpless sigh.

    "Why are you calling me stupid?" Alicia asked with a frown as she rubbed her head to relieve her pain. ''He even used mana coating. How insidious!'' She thought inwardly.

    "Then what else should I call you for worrying about this stupid thing?" Luis said tly.

    "OF COURSE, I WOULD BE CONCERNED ABOUT IT! THIS IS A MATTER RELATED TO MY FIANCE!" Alicia retorted while freezing his hand that hurt her into an ice block.

    *Shing*

    Luis didn''t dodge and looked at his frozen hand helplessly, ''I am still not safe from her freezing fetish.''

    Then, looking at Alicia with a calm expression, he stated. "What you are worried about will never happen!"

    "Really?" Alicia asked excitedly. Her frown disappeared, all her tears paused, and a jovial smile appeared on her face.

    "You are not lying to me, right?" She asked again to confirm it. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Luis chuckled slightly, then gently ced his hand on her cheek and said. "This is what I promise, Alicia."

    "I won''t create a harem!"

    Looking into her eyes affectionately, he uttered with a gentle smile.

    "I''ll only marry one girl in this life and that girl is you, Alicia."

 Chapter 127 "Lets Bathe Together!"

    Chapter 127 "Let''s Bathe Together!"

    ''Me being attracted to those heroines? What a joke! Who cares about their looks or status? Every heroine in this world has personality issues. Of course, except for my Alicia, who is cute and fun to tease. All the other heroines are troublesome characters, one bigger than the other. I can only use them as subordinates and nothing else,'' Luisined inwardly while thinking about the various plots of the game.

    Getting Luis'' assurance, Alicia was so excited that she hugged him tightly and with a wide grin on her face she said, "Then you better keep your promise! Or rememberst night''s movie? You will share the same fate."

    Luis smiled wryly and affirmed, "Yeah, don''t worry about it." Then, shaking his head, he continued, "But really, how could you and Mom conclude that I might create a harem? You should be aware that I am not good with girls in the matter of rtionships."

    Alicia broke the hug and stared at him speechlessly. ''If it''s not because you are too good, would we be worried?'' She didn''t say that out loud. Otherwise, he would be pretentious again and would somehow tease her once again. So, with a faint smile on her face, she said. "Yeah, but now that you have promised me, it seems our worries were unnecessary."

    Luis smiled gently while caressing her hair and said, "Hmm, I am not like those guys who can''t stand straight every time they meet a beautiful girl. What I want is a happy family who can live peacefully together. Not someplicated rtionships that will lead to fights and make me stressed."

    Hearing this, Alicia smiled softly and said, "We can make a happy family and live peacefully together."

    But she didn''t expect Luis to get close to her abruptly and ask intently, "Are you serious?"

    Alicia looked at him in confusion. "Yes��?"

    Luis shook his head and admonished her. "No, Alicia, I think it''s still too early for you. There is no need to waste your peak time when you should focus on getting stronger. There''s no hurry. We can have kidster."

    Alicia''s mind went nk for a second as she murmured, "You were talking about kids?"

    "Or else?" Luis showed a confused expression. That made Alicia blush in shame. She knew he did it on purpose to tease her, but she was so shy that she couldn''t utter a single word ofint and nodded with an ''Um''.

    Satisfied with her reaction, Luis smirked, then said. "Okay, that''s enough teasing for today. Now, get up and get ready. We are going somewhere."

    Alicia, who was pouting, showing her dissatisfaction with him for teasing her, forgot about her anger when she heard hister sentence. Looking at him with curious eyes, she asked, "Where are we going?"

    While getting up from his bed, Luis turned back to look at her and asked, "Did you forget about my previous promise?"

    Seeing her still showing a confused expression, Luis answered. "We are going to get you a power-up."

    "Really?!" Alicia was so excited that she jumped up from the bed and looked at him with sparkling eyes.

    With aposed expression, Luis quietly admired her sexy figure in her purple nightgown. Then nodded affirmatively and said, "Yes, so get ready and prepare the things you will need. We will leave after having breakfast. Wear a tracksuit above your battle suit."

    Alicia nodded in understanding and instantly went to the bathroom. Luis was so focused on observing her figure that he didn''t react until she closed the bathroom door from inside, "�� Wait, what about me?!"

    "You can go to my t or wait for me toe out." Alicia''s voice came from inside.

    They have already given each other permission to ess their ts. So, Luis can also ess the lock of Alicia''s t with his mana bracelet. Hence, it wasn''t a problem for him to use her bathroom.

    "I have a better idea. Why don''t we bathe together?" Luis suggested with a smirk.

    A few secondster, Alicia''s voice sounded, "�� The door seems to be stuck. I can''t open it."

    As if he didn''t understand the meaning of refusal behind Alicia''s excuse. Luis assured confidently. "Fret not my wife~ I can teleport!"

    "��" Alicia was speechless by his shamelessness.

    "Just try teleporting inside and I will be ready to be a widow, even before my marriage." Alicia''s cold voice sounded. Her threat seemed to have worked as Luis suppressed his desire and immediately left his t, leaving behind two words of understanding. "I see."

    ***

    The first floor had ten ts for the top ten students, and then the 11th to 20th-ranked students had their ts on the second floor. Alicia''s t was right beside his t and opposite their ts were t numbers 6 and 7. This means the students ranked 6th and 7th would be staying there. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ''Hmm, Rura was ranked seventh. So, she will be living in the t opposite Alicia''s. Well, this makes it easier to contact her.'' Luis thought as he unlocked Alicia''s t with his mana bracelet and entered inside.

    ---

    Alicia, on the other hand, inside Luis'' bathroom was looking at her reflection in the mirror. Her entire face was beet red in embarrassment.

    "�� Why does he tease me so much?" She murmured with a pout.

    Lily heard Alicia''s whisper and assumed that she was asking her. So, as an extremelypetent AI, she immediately replied, trying to solve her sister''s confusion. {Sister Alicia, as per Master''s dopamine level and his behavioral analysis. Teasing you is his top favorite thing to do in his daily life.}

    Hearing this, Alicia was even more embarrassed but happy at the same time. Because this means Luis really enjoys his time with her. Though she would prefer it if he didn''t tease her that much. But she also knew that Luis always kept the bottom line and never got excessive with his teasing. He always stops immediately if he finds Alicia getting ufortable.

    It''s as if he knows exactly when to advance and when to retreat. That is why she finds it difficult to get angry with him and slowly amodate herself along with his flow.

 Chapter 128 Pervert!

    Chapter 128 Pervert!

    After getting ready, Luis first went out and bought packed breakfast for the two of them. Then returned to his t and waited for Alicia. It didn''t take long for her to get ready as a few minutester; the duo had their breakfast, then wearing tracksuits with battle suits on the inside, they left Luis'' t.

    Just as they came out of his t, they heard a familiar voice greeting Luis.

    "Good morning Mr. Luis! It seems you have already settled in."

    Luis and Alicia simultaneously shifted their attention to the two elven girlsing their way. The one who greeted them was none other than Princess Emily and, as for the other elven girl. Luis didn''t know about her. ''Maybe a senior student serving their princess? Doesn''t matter.''

    "Hello, Miss Emily, yes, I settled yesterday." Luis greeted her back and answered her question, then asked politely. "Did you arrive just now?"

    Alicia on the side didn''t say anything and quietly observed their interaction. After getting Luis'' promise this morning, she wasn''t worried anymore. Rather, she was now interested in how Luis was going to make Emily submit to him. She remembered Luis'' statement of controlling The Esperia Kingdom through Emily. Which was no simple task, hence it aroused her curiosity.

    Emily nodded and replied, "Yes, just a few minutes ago." Then, gesturing towards the girl beside her, she said, "Senior Daisy was showing me around the dorm."

    Luis nodded in understanding while Daisy was flustered, as she hastily said, "No, no, Princess. You don''t have to be so polite to this servant. It is my fortune to be of service to you."

    Emily smiled faintly and didn''t reply to Daisy, already used to this kind of reaction from people. She noticed that Luis and Alicia were ready to leave but she was a little interested in Alicia, so she greeted her, "Nice to meet you, Miss Alicia. I''m Emily Steve from the Esperia Kingdom."

    Alicia was a little surprised when Emily took the initiative to chat with her. But thinking that Luis had ns regarding her, she decided to be somewhat friendly with her.

    "Hello, Princess Emily, apologies that I didn''t greet you earlier. I didn''t want to interrupt your conversation with my fianc��." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Although Emily already knew about it. Hearing it from Alicia''s mouth, she showed a surprised expression. "So you are that said fianc��e Mr. Luis was talking about?"

    Alicia''s lips twitched as she knew what Emily was referring to. She gave a sharp re at Luis, who averted his eyes, acting like a nobody.

    Emily noticed their small interaction and chuckled inwardly. ''As I thought, he was lying. There is no way he will be reluctant to ept a girl whose beauty is almostparable to mine.''

    With a smirk on her face, she said, "You two seem to have quite a good rtionship since you areing out of the same t together this early in the morning." Then, without waiting for them to speak, she continued. "That means the two of you must have slept together. Having a passionate sultry night, fucking like horny beasts."

    Hearing this, Alicia''s expression became cold. ''As expected, this girl is a shameless pervert. I should keep my distance from her.''

    Luis'' expression darkened. He didn''t know if it was because of Emily''s shameless words or because what she said didn''t happen. Regardless, he was angry. "Miss Emily, please keep your perverted fantasies to yourself."

    Before Emily could reply, Daisy interjected with a furious expression. "Mr. Luis, mind yournguage! Remember her identity! She is Princess Emily! The future QUEEN of the Esperia Kingdom!"

    When Emily heard Daisy scolding Luis. She decisively shut her mouth and quietly waited to see Luis'' reaction. If Luis backs off now and things develop in her favor, then everything''s good. But if not, then she can end the matter by scolding Daisy a little. This way, without losing anything she can test Luis.

    Luis looked at Daisy speechlessly, ''Should it be me who should mind hisnguage?'' He knew that there was no point arguing about this with Daisy. But if he didn''t speak back at this moment. It will be like him being defeated because of Emily''s status, and that is not good for his ns.

    Showing a thoughtful expression, Luis nodded and said in a grandeur manner, "Yes, she will be the QUEEN of the Esperia Kingdom in the future and with her personality and character, I can say for sure that she has the potential to be the number one QUEAN of Alnaur."

    Daisy nodded, agreeing with him. She thought that Luis understood his mistake. "It''s good that you understand. You better apologize now."

    "Daisy, SHUT UP FOR ME!" Emily''s stern voice sounded as Daisy immediately shrank her neck in fear and confusion. ''What happened? Why is the Princess so angry? Did I make any mistake?''

    Daisy didn''t understand what was going on. But can the others not? Alicia used her hand to cover her mouth as she snickered, trying to hold back herughter.

    Emily''s expression was dark as she looked at Luis with a frown and asked, "Does Mr. Luis think so badly of me?"

    "Why don''t Miss Emily reassess her conduct towards us?" Luis said with a t expression.

    Emily took a deep breath, trying to calm her anger. She knew that her n had failed and now she regretted letting Daisy scold Luis before. She didn''t want to have any estrangements with Luis, so she decided to take a step back and admit her mistake. "It is indeed my fault for not being polite first. I apologize for that."

    Although Luis didn''t show it on his face, inwardly he was very satisfied with Emily''s reaction. "As long as Miss Emily understands that."

    Emily sighed, then she nced at Daisy beside her and spoke. "But Mr. Luis is not very polite. ying word games and confusing my subordinate." She said this trying to get an apology from Luis for calling her a quean.

    ''From senior to subordinate, huh? Hehe.'' Luis chuckled inwardly. Of course, he understood what she was trying. But was he willing? No way.

    "I think Miss Emily should clear Senior Daisy''s confusion first," Luis said, grabbing Alicia''s hand and continuing. "We will be on our way and won''t interrupt your dorm tour any further."

    With those words, the two of them left under the eyes of the annoyed Emily and the confused Daisy.

 Chapter 129 Search!

    Chapter 129 Search!

    After, they came out of their dorm, and were quite some distance away from other people. Alicia didn''t hold back her curiosity any further and asked. "Where will we be going, Luis?"

    "South Ind," Luis answered simply.

    Alicia raised her brow and asked, "The ''thing'' you mentioned, is it there?"

    Luis nodded and said, "Let''s talk about it after we get there."

    Alicia understood what Luis wanted to convey, so she asked a different question. "Are we renting a boat?"

    Luis shook his head and replied, "No need for that!"

    Then he grabbed her waist and hugged her closer, which made Alicia blush. She didn''t expect him to suddenly hug her, but she didn''t reject him. Though she was curious to know the reason behind Luis'' sudden act of intimacy.

    But just when she was about to ask him, she heard him whisper.

    "Spatial Jump!"

    The next second, the surrounding scenery changed. Alicia looked around and found that the two of them were inside a forest, surrounded by trees. She understood that Luis used his teleportation spell to bring them here. But she wasn''t familiar with this ce. So, she asked, "Where are we?"

    Luis looked at Alicia, and responded with a smile, "South Ind." On their previous ride back to the Oracle Academy, he had already marked the South Ind with his perception. So, he was able to calcte the approximate location of the South Ind and teleport there.

    Alicia''s brain went nk for a second, then she eximed, "What?!" Staring at Luis with wide eyes, she asked, "Just how much is the range of your spell?! Wasn''t it only 10 meters before?!"

    Luis nodded and exined, "Well, the range of the Spatial Jump spell was indeed only 10 meters when I was G-Rank. But with every rank increase, the range of that spell increased by ten times. So now the range is 10 Kilometers. Of course, the mana consumption is just asrge."

    This revtion amazed Alicia. She felt that the Space element was too cheating. If people don''t have any methods to restrict Luis from using his spatial abilities, then who can stop him?

    He cane whenever he wants and leave whenever he wants. His enemies can only be helpless if he doesn''t want to fight them.

    Of course, Alicia thought things too simply because she was unaware that Luis'' advantage in front of his future enemies would amount to nothing.

    "Freak," Alicia murmured with a sigh.

    When he heard his fianc��e calling himself a freak, Luis smiled wryly. Her reaction wasn''t surprising because this growth was indeed a little too much.

    "Well, we can discuss those thingster. We should first focus on what we came here for."

    At the mention of this, Alicia suddenly remembered something and said, "But Luis, the South Ind, also has a barrier like the Main Ind and we entered here without permission won''t the formation''s mechanism alert the academy guards."

    Luis smiled and said, "Yep, they would have been alerted and caught us as soon as we stepped here if we didn''t have the Student IDs."

    Alicia showed a look of realization and said, "No wonder you waited until today! I didn''t expect the Student IDs to have this kind of use."

    Luis chuckled and didn''t exin much. The Student IDs inside the Oracle Academy have many uses. Which Alicia wille to know about, eventually.

    Moreover, it wasn''t like Luis couldn''t have bypassed the mechanism with his talent. It''s just that he felt it was unnecessary to put in that effort when he could just wait a few days, like what he did.

    "Pocket Space!" Luis used his spell and in the next second, a purple vortex appeared near his hand. He inserted his hand inside the vortex and took out several button-shaped things from there. They were 3 cm in diameter each.

    "What is this, Luis?" Alicia asked curiously, wondering if it was one of his inventions.

    "It''s nothing special. Let''s just call them�� umm�� Button Drones?" Luis said, showing hisck of interest in this thing.

    Seeing that he had juste up with that random name, Alicia chuckled and reminded him. "You better change that nameter."

    Hearing the word ''drone'', Alicia had already got the gist of it. As for its specific features, seeing Luis'' expression, she also lost interest and didn''t ask.

    "Umm," Luis nodded perfunctorily, then said, "Lily, use the Button Drones and search for a small hole inside the big ravine at the centre of the ind."

    {Yes, Master!} Lily''s voice sounded from his mana bracelet. Then the next second the button drones started levitating in front of them and flew at fast speed, disappearing from their sight in the blink of an eye.

    Alicia''s lips twitched, thinking that speed didn''t seem like something a normal drone could have. ''Why did he look so dissatisfied with it before?''

    His Button Drones can float in the air at the speed of 200 miles per hour without making any sound. They have stealth features and can be controlled over a range of 40 kilometres. Inbuilt speakers, microphone and several other functions.

    Plus, by self-destructing it can create an explosion powerful enough to kill an F-rank. But Luis still didn''t think highly of his creation. Maybe he would only be satisfied when he could kill the powerhouses of A or S rank with his drones alone. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Turning to Alicia, who was looking around curiously, Luis said, "We just have to wait here until the drones find that ce. Then we will use my spell to teleport there. This Ind has many powerful monsters, so it''s not a good idea to move around carelessly."

    Alicia understood this too, but she still nodded at Luis'' reminder. Because she knew he said this for their own safety.

    Luis checked the nearby area once again, and then the two of them sat on top of a tree branch and waited.

    A few minutester, a drone found the ce Luis was looking for and Lily immediately informed him.

    {Master, we have found that ce.}

    Luis stood up on the tree branch energetically, then said with obvious excitement. "Good job! Give me the coordinates!"

    As soon as she did, Luis held Alicia closer to him and teleported again.

    Seeing the change of surroundings once again. Alicia sighed in amazement.

    *Sigh*

    "No matter how many times I experience this. I can''t help but envy you, Luis. Your Space Element is too convenient."

    Luis looked at her and said, "Don''t make it sound like you don''t get to use this convenience. For long travels, you use transport circles as the mode of transportation. This isn''t much different."

    Alicia pouted and said, "I know that, but using a previously drawn magic circle fueled with mana stones is a lot differentpared to your instant teleportation."

    "Once your range increases further, you can go anywhere you want instantly. That is still enviable."

    Hearing this, Luis chuckled and said, "Maybe in the future, it will be possible to go anywhere in the world. But for now, even this small travel takes a lot of mana and the exact coordinates for it to work."

    Then, shaking his head, he decided to stop talking about that now. "Anyway, now let''s focus on what we are here for."

    When he said that, both Alicia and Luis shifted their attention to the small hole surrounded by grass and nts looking like a rabbit''s burrow.

    "Isn''t this burrow some animal''s hibernating ce?" Alicia asked curiously.

    "Most people think of it like that," Luis chuckled, then said, "Lily, send a Button Drone inside and project the image to us once you reach a spacious area."

    {Yes, Master!} Lily did as she was told while Alicia observed everything curiously.

    A few secondster, Lily projected an image to them and Luis immediately used Spatial Jump again, while holding Alicia.

    This time they appeared inside a dark tunnel, which at the next moment was illuminated by the lights from the button drones.

    Alicia looked around and eximed, "Wow! I didn''t expect there to be such a big tunnel inside the burrow."

    Tapping on her mana bracelet, she asked, "Lily, how deep was that narrow hole before this tunnel started?"

    Lily immediately responded to Alicia''s question. {It''s 50 meters, Sister Alicia.}

    "That deep?!" Alicia raised her brows and sighed, then looked at Luis with a smile and said, "Fortunately, you can bring us here with teleportation. Otherwise, we would have to dig the entire thing. There''s no way anyone can get here from that narrow hole."

    ''No Alicia, you are wrong. Someone crawled all the way here, and that person was you. Maybe If I wasn''t here, everything would have happened ording to the game story.'' Luis thought inwardly as he looked at her smile, and it made him a little sad in his heart.

    When the two of them started walking inside the tunnel. In his mind, he couldn''t help but think of how Alicia reached this ce in the game''s plot.

 Chapter 130 Unexpected Gains!

    Chapter 130 Unexpected Gains!

    In their third year at the academy, Alicia, in a team with several students, entered the South Ind because of an inspection task regarding some irregrities assigned to them. But they had no idea that the monsters on this ind were acting violently because of the interference of a certain viin, causing them to gain strength several ranks above their own.

    The enemies hacked into the barrier system, trapping them, restricting entry and jamming allmunication, which is why the academy wasn''t alerted until veryter. Amidst their mission, they found themselves in a precarious situation, surrounded by a horde of berserk monsters.

    With little hope of support, Alicia, as the strongest among them and the temporary leader, faced those powerful monsters. While also giving uratemands that might have led them to find a breakthrough to escape with their united operation if precisely executed.

    Although she was cold and had extreme trust issues, she didn''t give up on those students and wanted to save their lives instead of escaping alone.

    Though her idea was noble. Regrettably, Alicia''s teammates weren''t particrly strong and were also too cowardly to face those berserk monsters. They didn''t follow hermand and escaped.

    Alicia was disappointed in them, but still gritted her teeth and fought hard, trying to give them enough time to escape. Many of them escaped while some still died. Alicia fought the horde alone, with multiple wounds on her body, and ended up falling into the ravine.

    Enduring the pain from the fall, she froze her injuries and the seeping blood. The chill made her pain numb, then her eyes fell on the burrow near her. Alicia needed rest and when she sensed the monsters approaching her. She didn''t think of anything and crawled inside that burrow, all the way to the tunnel. Completely disregarding the possibility of it being home to another powerful monster.

    ---

    ''Even if she was lucky enough to obtain a powerful sword art. The process was not something just anyone could go through.''

    Just thinking about it. Luis looked at Alicia in admiration.

    ''As expected of my wife!''

    Alicia didn''t notice the changes in Luis'' expression as her eyes were attracted by the spring in front of her, which was surrounded by Luminous Moss, giving this scene an ethereal feeling.

    "So beautiful!"

    If she hadn''t seen it with her own eyes, Alicia wouldn''t have believed that there was such a ce inside that narrow hole.

    Hearing Alicia''s murmur, Luis smiled faintly and patted her shoulder, "Go on."

    In Alicia''s turquoise eyes, Luis'' smiling face was reflected as she nodded seriously.

    Taking light steps, she approached the spring in front of her and crouched down. Alicia thought that Luis brought her here to drink the water from that spring. Given its ethereal beauty, she assumed it was some kind of special spring that gives benefits by drinking its water.

    Just as she was about to scoop some water to drink. Alicia noticed the reflection on the spring and her eyes widened in surprise. She instantly hoisted her head to look at the ceiling of the tunnel.

    On the ceiling, several scattered scriptures were written along with the drawings of motion figures holding a stick. It was visible enough because of the illuminance of the Luminous Moss.

    Even if those scriptures seemed ancient, Alicia was able to understand it.

    "T-This is Sword Art!" she eximed with a shutter.

    Luis, on the side, nodded while smiling, "Yes, although I can''t decipher it. Observing those drawings, anyone can tell that it''s an Ancient Sword Art."

    Then he added. "Moreover, it seems that only someone with S-grade talent in Swordsmanship canprehend it. Just like how I was able to read the Ancient Magic book because of my S-grade Sorcerer Talent."

    When he said that, he also sighed inwardly, ''If only I had an S-grade Talent in Swordsmanship. Then I would have learned it together with Alicia.''

    Just as he thought of it, Luis shook his head immediately. ''What am I thinking? Excessive greed is not a good thing. I already have a lot of talents. I should focus on improving them.''

    Alicia, who heard his answer, broke her attention from the drawings and while pointing at the Spring she asked, "What about this spring?"

    "Huh...?" Luis let out a confused sound but answered her, regardless. "It''s just a spring connected to the ocean."

    "So there''s nothing special about it?" Alicia asked, as her lips twitched. She felt her cheeks were hot because of embarrassment. Fortunately, Luis didn''t seem to have noticed it.

    Luis didn''t understand why Alicia was so concerned about the spring. Shouldn''t she focus on learning the sword art?

    *Sigh*

    ''No matter how much I know about her. I can never understand a girl''s mind.''

    He rubbed his chin and said thoughtfully, "Well, it can work as an exit for people who came here crawling that hole."

    Hiding her blush, Alicia gave Luis a nk look and said, "You just said it leads to the depth of the Ocean! Who would be suicidal enough to use it as an exit?! Can''t they just try crawling back?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ''That''s what I want to ask you too,'' Luis thought, but pursed his lips and didn''t speak further.

    After their chatter was over, Alicia sat down in a meditative posture and focused onprehending the sword art.

    Luis sat on the side so as not to disturb her, while Lily scanned and recorded all the scriptures and drawings following hismand.

    The tunnel was quiet, and only the sounds of Luis and Alicia''s breathing could be heard.

    Time passed by slowly as Alicia''s forehead was covered in sweat. But she didn''t seem to have noticed it because her entire concentration was on learning sword art.

    While waiting for her patiently, Luis also nced at the scriptures and thought, ''I don''t understand why someone needs to have the appropriate talent to read andprehend these ancient scriptures.''

    ''Shouldn''t it work if a person knows the ancientnguage?''

    ''Just what kind of mechanism is it?''

    This theory is also a topic of major discussion for the schrs of magicws in this world. Unfortunately, there is no answer for it.

    While Luis was thinking about it. His eyes looking at the ceiling suddenly paused in a certain nk area. He narrowed his eyes because he could feel something was off about it.

    Luis used his perception to inspect that nk area of the ceiling carefully, and a minuteter, a surprised expression appeared on his face.

    ''Damn, an illusion!''

    This was something unexpected for him. He could tell that there were traces of illusion present in that nk area hiding something beneath.

    ''If I hadn''t focused on it more. I would have missed it for sure. Is it some kind of perception-blocking illusion?''

    Thinking so, Luis immediately got to work and focused on decrypting the illusion.

    Finally, an hourter, he seeded in breaking the Illusion.

    ''Phew~ That was one hell of an illusion. Even the Illusion Test of the Ghost King''s legacy was just a child''s ypared to this illusion.''

    Luis exhaled a breath and thought with an expectant smile, ''Now let''s what is hidden behind such a powerful illusion.''

    ''Decode!''

    As soon as Luis snapped his fingers, the Illusion was finally broken and what appeared in his sight were golden scriptures that he was able to read, unlike the grey scriptures that Alicia wasprehending.

    Alicia nced at the golden scriptures but failed to read them, so she brought her focus back toprehending Sword Art.

    Luis looked at the golden scriptures with shining eyes, because he could tell that there was a spell of Illusion magic written there. Moreover, it was a very powerful one too.

    ''Hehe, what an unexpected gain!''

    He immediately started learning it and also let Lily record it.

    Just when Luis was happy about learning a powerful illusion spell. He read thest line of that golden scripture and a frown appeared on his face.

    The line says. [The God of Mirage shall exist in infinity!]

    ''Who is this God of Mirage? And what is this infinity?'' Luis showed a confused expression. He didn''t think it was weird for a God to exist in the fantasy-like world. But this sentence left him with many unanswered questions.

    ***

    A few hourster.

    Alicia, whose entire body was covered in sweat, stood up with an excited smile on her face.

    "So, how is it, Alicia?" Luis asked with a faint smile.

    Instead of answering, Alicia rushed towards him and hugged him tightly.

    "Thank you, Luis! I can''t express how happy I am! This Sword Art is amazing!"

    Alicia didn''t ask him how he knew about this kind of ce. Judging from her observation, she could tell that no person hade here in centuries.

    She knew that Luis had many secrets, and it was inconvenient for him to exin the source of his knowledge to her every time.

    It''s not that she wasn''t curious. But she doesn''t want to annoy him and make him ufortable around her. That''s why she only asked for simple things and didn''t get too deep into it. Though she still hoped that one day Luis would tell her everything.

    Luis smiled faintly, as he enjoyed the sensation of the embrace and called out gently.

    "Alicia~"

    "What is it, Luis?"

    "You are too sweaty! Let''s go back so that you can take a shower first." He said with slight disgust in his tone.

    "..."

 Chapter 131 Ceremony!

    Chapter 131 Ceremony!

    Time is fleeting.

    Before they knew it, today was already the day of the start of their academic year. In thest few days after their brief visit to the South Ind, Luis and Alicia had invested most of their time in training.

    Alicia has been practising with her sword, very excited to master that ancient sword art as soon as possible. While Luis focused on meditation, trying to improve his mental strength with the technique he had learned.

    Within those ancient golden scriptures resided not just a powerful Illusion magic spell, but also a method to enhance one''s mental strength.

    Although Luis has a Mental Fortitude (A) Skill that can help him release powerful Illusions strong enough to defeat an enemy way above his rank, providing that his enemy''s mental strength is lower.

    The meditation technique he learned from those golden texts allows his mental strength to grow without limits, unlike that skill.

    Of course, in the short term, Mental Fortitude skill is still very useful for him. But he would continue practising that meditation technique for his future development. Because by that time, this skill won''t be very useful.

    ***

    Inside his room, Luis stood in front of a human-sized mirror and observed himself with scrutiny.

    "My hair has grown somewhat. Maybe I should change my hairstyle." He mumbled while pondering.

    Then he shook his head and shifted his attention to the academy''s uniform that he was wearing.

    "This uniformpliments my handsomeness perfectly."

    He praised himself with a satisfied expression on his face. Then he tapped on his mana bracelet and called out.

    "Lily, is Alicia ready?"

    {Master, Sister Alicia is almost done getting ready.} Lily''s childish voice sounded from his mana bracelet.

    "Is that so?" Luis mumbled thoughtfully, then said, "I haven''t seen the girls'' uniform yet. I wonder how Alicia will look."

    Thinking so, he immediately left his t. Then, went to Alicia''s t and knocked.

    "Alicia, are you ready?" He asked, even though he knew the answer. Then, without waiting for her answer, or rather not giving her enough time to respond, he unlocked the door hoping to witness a beautiful scenery.

    Unfortunately, Alicia was already done dressing up and was brushing Ivy''s tail.

    "Yeah, I am ready." She answered with a smile.

    "... I can see that," Luis said with a sigh of disappointment. Then he shook his head and continued. "Let''s go have breakfast."

    "Just wait a minute. I''m almost done brushing her."

    Luis looked at Ivy for a moment and asked, "Will you leave her in your t?"

    Alicia nodded and said, "Yeah, for today at least."

    Luis nodded in understanding and asked, "Will she be fine that long without you?"

    "I think she will be okay," Alicia said, then patting Ivy''s back, she asked, "Isn''t that right, Ivy?"

    *Kyu*

    Ivy let out a cute sound as an answer.

    ��

    After having their breakfast, Luis and Alicia came out of their dorm and were ready to leave for the academy. At that moment, they heard a familiar voice greeting them cheerfully.

    "Junior Luis! Junior Alicia! Good Morning!"

    Luis and Alicia turned to look at the brown-haired girling towards them with a wide smile on her face.

    "Oh, it''s Senior Mira! Good morning." Luis replied politely, then nced at Alicia beside him.

    Alicia was just about to nod in response when she felt Luis'' gaze on her. Understanding what he wanted to convey, she snorted softly and replied to Mira. "Hello."

    Mira''s big eyes observed the two of them for a moment, then with a cheerful smile on her face, she suggested, "You are going to the academy, right? Can Ie along?"

    Luis wanted to reject her, but facing Mira''s expectant eyes, he was at a loss for words. So he turned to Alicia and let her decide.

    Alicia didn''t think much about it and with a t expression on her face, she agreed, "Sure."

    Although Luis was a little disappointed because of the unwanted third wheel. But thinking that Alicia might gain a good friend, he sighed and suppressed the disappointment in his heart.

    ''Wait, what am I even disappointed about? Alicia and I are together in almost all of our free time. I know that it''s not sufficient, but still...''

    ''Sigh, what happened to me? How did I fall so low?''

    ***

    Just when they entered the premises of the Academy. The five statues standing in front of the main building of the Oracle Academy attracted Luis and Alicia''s attention.

    "Awesome, right?" Mira asked with a grin when she saw their gazes focused on the statues. "Those are the statues of the five heroes who founded the Oracle Academy. You should know about them, right?"

    Luis nodded and was immersed in his thoughts about the future as he observed the statues. Suddenly, his gaze shifted in the direction of a small building some distance away from the main building and a smirk appeared on his face.

    Alicia, who noticed Luis'' actions just now, also turned to look at that building, but she didn''t find anything extraordinary.

    ''Is he using his perception?'' She wondered.

    ***

    Inside that said building. A bulky man holding a cigar in his handughed out loud.

    "Hahaha! Interesting! His senses are sharp! He is different from those other twerps! Maybe we should recruit him, Rover."

    He said as he turned to look at the other person present in the room.

    On the sofa sat a pale-faced, thin man, who seemed like a sickly person, observing some documents. When he heard himself being called out, he raised his head and asked.

    "Are you talking about the top student in the entrance exam, Frank?"

    Frank, the bulky man, nodded and said, "Yeah, he seems to be called Luis or something."

    Rover shook his head and said, "Don''t think about it. This is too risky."

    After flipping through some documents, he took out Luis'' information and gave it to Frank and continued.

    "Although that guy is good, his background is not something we can provoke. If we are caught once, then everything is over. We will be kicked out of the academy and, in the worst case, they might execute us."

    When he said thest sentence, Rover''s expression was very grave. Expressing the severity of what he said.

    Frank didn''t take Rover''s warning seriously and said with a wide grin, "It''s fine if we brainwash him, right? We can get an excellent tool and we can also use his background to our advantage."

    Thinking of his ingenuity, Frank looked at Rover with a smug expression.

    Rover rubbed his forehead, then looked at Frank with a cold expression. "I''m warning youst time, Frank! Don''t do anything stupid! Just do everything ording to the n andplete the mission."

    When Frank heard himself being dissuaded by Rover, he showed a dissatisfied expression and said, "I don''t understand what is so good about that Alex twerp? Why is recruiting him even more important than Luis?"

    With a serious expression on his face, Rover said sternly, "We don''t have to concern ourselves with those things. What we should focus on is recruiting Alex Stain and, as for other students, no matter their potential, it doesn''t matter to us. Just focus on our mission!"

    Frank waved his hands and shrugged. "Yeah, whatever."

    ***

    Mira guided Luis and Alicia towards the main hall of the academy where the entrance ceremony would be held.

    "Okay guys, I''m going to my ss. See you around."

    Seeing her leaving, the two of them also entered the hall, where hundreds of students were already present.

    "Wow, it seems we aren''t that early," Luis said with a smile.

    Alicia smiled back at him, "After all, unlike you, others are very excited about the academy."

    Luis looked at her nkly, "I''m also excited about it! Okay!"

    "Doesn''t look like it." Alicia grinned.

    "I am very excited alright! I''ve always wanted to experience the Academy romance!" Luis said as he nced at Alicia with a yearning gaze. His flirtatious words made Alicia''s cheeks hot.

    *Ahem*

    At that moment, a cough sounded behind them.

    When Luis and Alicia turned back, they saw a smiling middle-aged man standing behind them.

    "I am Professor Hardy! Students, you should go assemble in a line."

    "Hello, Professor!" Luis and Alicia greeted him and then joined a line.

    ''Sigh, youth.'' Professor Hardy shook his head and left towards the other professors.

    ---

    For the ceremony, only some professors and the fresh students were present. The ceremony went on for more than an hour. Luis, as the top student, was also called onto the stage to give a speech as the representative student.

    When he did so, many students who were eliminated by him looked at him with hatred. The obvious one among them was Thomas, who looked quite haggard. Seemingly, he suffered a lot during this time.

    Of course, Luis didn''t care about any of them. He ended his speech and got off the stage with elegant steps.

    ***

    After the ceremony was over, the students disassembled and searched for the ss they were assigned to. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ***

    [Current Status Board:]

    ***

    [Name]: Luis Suarez

    [Race]: Human

    [Age]: 16

    [Rank]: Order rank ������ (D)

    [Affinity]: Lightning (Hidden: Space)

    [Talent Awakened]: Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent]: Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique]: None

    [Bloodline]: Unawakened

    [Titles]: Challenger

    [Skills]: Perception (Growth Type), Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D)

    [Techniques]: Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Intermediate ������), Ancient Spiritual Meditation Method (Basic ������)

    [Mana Core]: Rank C

    ***

 Chapter 132 Class Division!

    Chapter 132 ss Division!

    The ss division of the first year of the Oracle Academy is divided into 12 sses, with 50 students each. Out of the 12 sses, 4 of them are elite sses and the rest are normal sses. The normal sses have numbers from one to eight, while the 4 elite sses have names based on the Sacred Beasts: Fenrir, Leviathan, Jormundgar, and Behemoth.

    In the elite sses, the students with S, A, B, and C evaluations will be divided ordingly. This means each elite ss will have five students with an S grade evaluation. Thus, increasing thepetitiveness between the elite sses.

    ***

    "So, I''m in Leviathan ss, huh?" Luis muttered as he read the notification in his mana bracelet. Then he rubbed his chin and pondered, ''Now, what were the side plots of the Leviathan ss route again?''

    In the game, if the yers have the ranking eligible to enter the elite ss, then they are given the option to choose among those four elite sses. After that, ording to their choice, the development of many side plots and some events varies.

    Of course, the chosen routes don''t affect the events of the main storyline as, somehow or other, they are all interconnected. But they do affect their difficulty level. So, it was always rmended for the new yers to choose after careful consideration.

    Sadly, this was the real world. Where you can''t always make choices as you deem fit, sometimes things are imposed on you without your opinion.

    Since Luis was assigned to the Leviathan ss. He was thinking about the side plots that could be of use to him. He had no intention of involving himself in all the plots, but he would definitely engage in the plots that involved some important people and were connected to the main storyline.

    Turning his head to look at Alicia beside him, Luis asked, "Which ss are you in, Alicia?"

    "The same as you, Leviathan," Alicia replied in a t tone, her eyes showing indifference, but her upturned lips gave her away, expressing how happy she was.

    Luis was taken aback for a moment, then a handsome smile appeared on his face as he said in a teasing manner. "See? It''s our destiny! Even the Oracle Academy can''t bear to separate us!"

    Alicia snorted faintly and said, "Don''t overthink! It''s not fate at work, but our evaluation ranking."

    Luis nodded his head and, seeing her stubborn look, he didn''t continue trying to tease her. He knew that wouldn''t work when she was like this. It''s better to find an opportunityter.

    "Let''s go to our ssroom first and see who our ssmates are."

    "Yeah," Alicia replied uncaringly.

    Seeing this, Luis'' legs, which were about to step forward, paused, and he said sternly, "Hey, Alicia! I''m serious! You better try making friends!"

    "Are you forcing me?!" Alicia asked back with some anger.

    Luis was unfazed and answered calmly, "Yeah, I am!"

    "��" Alicia stared back at Luis in astonishment. Disbelief was clearly expressed on her face. She couldn''t believe his attitude just now. Never in her dreams had she expected Luis to force her to do something she wasn''t interested in.

    Luis could pretty much guess her thoughts based on her expression, which is why he was speechless. ''Oh man, why is a girl''s mood soplicated?! It can fluctuate from happiness to anger within seconds.''

    ''Sigh, we men are helpless.''

    To calm down her emotions, Luis immediately took on a softer approach, "Alicia, I am not asking you to be friendly with everyone. If fine, for you to be your usual self. But I just want you to try making at least one female friend, okay? Can you do that for me?"

    When she heard his gentle tone, Alicia''s frown eased up visibly and after a moment she said with a nod, "I''ll try at my pace. So don''t try to pressure me."

    "I won''t," Luis replied sincerely and sighed in relief, seeing that Alicia didn''t seem angry anymore.

    ***

    The entrance of the Leviathan ss had a majestic door, adorned with beautiful tidal patterns portrayed in it. It had a blue water droplet symbol on top of the door. Which was most probably the symbol of the Leviathan ss.

    When Luis and Alicia entered the noisy ssroom, all voices stopped, and the entire ssroom fell into an abrupt silence. All the eyes inside the ssroom observed Luis and Alicia rigidly.

    Their reactions weren''t surprising after all the two of them were the top two students on the entrance test and they had also eliminated many students among them, too.

    Of course, among them, some students didn''t care about any of that and just minded their own business. But there was one student whose reaction was entirely differentpared to others.

    "Luis, buddy!"

    On a seat in the back row. A bulky boy with a buzz cut waved his hand towards Luis with a wide grin on his face.

    Until now, there had been only one person who called him ''buddy''. Thinking of the student he met at the time of the written test, a faint smile appeared on Luis'' face.

    And sure enough, when he looked at the source of the voice, he saw a familiar person waving his hands at him. It was none other than Ben Dous.

    Ignoring the eyes of other ssmates, Luis walked toward Ben. Alicia also followed after him while looking at Ben curiously wondering if this big guy was an acquaintance of Luis.

    "So, you passed after all! Huh, Ben!" Luis said with a faint smile.

    "Of course! I did!" Ben said proudly. Then he looked at Luis with an excited expression and said, "But damn, bro! You gave me a big surprise, huh? You became the top student! Were you pretending to be nervous then?"

    Luis remembered that Ben had misunderstood him back then, and he didn''t bother to correct his misunderstanding. It''s no wonder that he thinks Luis was pretending.

    Thinking so, Luis shook his head with a chuckle and said, "Well, I also didn''t expect to rank so high. It seems the Lady luck blessed me."

    "You don''t have to be modest, Buddy Luis! It was all your hard work and talent," Ben said with a smile, and then his eyes shifted to Alicia, who was standing behind Luis.

    Seeing this, Luis was about to introduce the two of them, but Ben gave him a confident ''leave it to me'' gesture and looked at Alicia with a smile.

    "Hello, sister-inw! I''m Ben Dous! Brother Luis had told me a lot of good things about you!"

    When she heard herself being called sister-inw, Alicia blushed inwardly, but on the outside, she maintained her indifferent expression.

    Finding no change in Alicia''s expression, Ben wondered if he said something wrong.

    ''Shouldn''t she be asking what buddy Luis said about her? Then I will tell her a lot of good things and she will be happy with Buddy.''

    ''They are happy, I am happy, happy ending! In that drama, this trick worked perfectly fine. So, what went wrong here?''

    On one side there was contemtive Ben, and on the other side was indifferent Alicia. This situation amused Luis. Although Ben''s help was unnecessary, Luis still appreciated his kind intentions. It made Luis have a favourable opinion of Ben. As for him having ill intentions with his approach, Luis will certainly investigate itter.

    For now, he was interested in how the situation would turn out to be.

    "�� What did he say?" When Alicia asked this question, Ben understood that this was the moment, so he immediately repeated the dialogue from the drama he had seen.

    "He said that you are the most beautiful person he has seen in his entire life. Without you, his life feels empty. Your existence is like a vibrant light in his gray, emotionless world. If you are not there, he has no meaning to his life."

    Luis covered his mouth, trying to hold back hisughter behind a serious expression. ''Hahaha! What the heck is up with those cheesy lines? Where did he learn these?"

    ''There is no way Alicia is going to believe that I will say such cheesy nonsense!'' Thinking so, Luis shook his head and turned to look at Alicia, expecting to see her indifferent expression. But to his surprise, Alicia had a soft smile on her face as she nced at Luis with a slight blush. ''Wait? What''s up with her reaction? Don''t tell me she believed him?! Wake up Alicia, there is no way I''ll say such things!'' n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    With slight redness on her cheeks, Alicia got close to Luis and whispered, "Luis, in front of me is fine! But you shouldn''t say these kinds of things in front of outsiders. It''s so embarrassing."

    Luis had a wry smile on his face. He didn''t know what to say at that moment. He turned to look at Ben, who gave him a thumbs up, showing a wide grin. He sighed helplessly and thought, ''Can the sses begin already?''

 Chapter 133 Professor Olivia!

    Chapter 133 Professor Olivia!

    Luis and Alicia sat in thest row, just behind Ben. After chatting with Luis for a short while, Ben went up to converse with other ssmates and got familiar with them. He invited Luis too, but Luis declined with a polite smile. He can mingle with his ssmatester, but for now, there are some things in his mind that he needs to clear out first.

    Just when he was about tomand Lily, a familiar person entered the ssroom, attracting Luis'' attention. It was none other than Diana Tres, the Beast-Kin heroine.

    ''Hmm, so she is also in our ss.'' Luis thought with a faint smile. Then he observed everyone to confirm if there were other people rted to the game plot in his ss. Not finding anyone important enough to attract his attention, he tapped on his mana bracelet andmanded Lily via message.

    [Lily, send me the ss arrangement list of the Core Targets.]

    As he had muted Lily, she also replied to him with messages. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    {Yes, Master!}

    {Fenrir ss: Emily Steve, Rura Wayne and Alex Stain.}

    {Leviathan ss: Diana Tres.}

    {Jormundgar ss: Markeith Evansville, Sera Dennis.}

    {Behemoth ss: Seraphina Evansville, Urs Aiverson.}

    {ss (1-5): Thomas Aiverson.}

    Reading the information, Luis had an intriguing look on his face.

    ''Well, this is interesting�� Emily, Rura and Alex are in the same ss.''

    ''Will this be the start of Rura''s conquest route first��? Emily''s conquest route was kind of troublesome andplicated. Moreover, because of my interference, Alex will have a hard time approaching her.''

    ''So, most probably, Rura will be his target. After all, she is the first female lead. But there''s also Sera, who is already close with him.''

    As he remembered Sera''s weirdness, Luis fell into deep thought. He had let Lily monitor them and in thest week, Alex and Sera hadn''t met each other again since their lunch on the day of the entrance exam. Which made him wonder just what stage their rtionship was at.

    ''Whatever, I won''t get an answer just by thinking about it. It''s better to focus on Rura first.''

    Although Luis doesn''t care if Rura will be the first member of Alex''s harem. But he does care about the form of the Multiplier Potion that she hasn''t finished yet and the other special forms that she will develop in the future.

    ''I must get theplete Multiplier Potion recipe before she falls in love with Alex. After that, they can do whatever they want. I don''t care.''

    Luis was very greedy for the Multiplier Potion. After all, how can he resist the temptation of 2 times growth in cultivation speed? Or maybe even 4 times if you consider the improved version of the Multiplier Potion.

    He could also just wait for her toplete the form and then steal it. But if he does that, who will make the improved version of the form for him? When the next time, he tries to steal. Who can guarantee she will not be extra careful? That risk was not something he was willing to take. After all, the temptation of 4 times growth is still higher than 2 times.

    This is why he was going to use other methods and make it so that Rura would take the initiative to deliver those forms to his door with a smile on her face.

    ''But everything is forter. I must get acquainted with her first.'' Thinking so, Luis shook his head and focused on the rest of the list. For Jormundgar and Behemoth ss, he didn''t have much of a reaction. But when he saw Thomas'' ss arrangement, a chuckle escaped his mouth.

    ''Hehe, I wonder how Thomas is feeling right now. He won''t be petty enough to me me for his current situation, right? Should I go see himter?'' Luis thought with a sinister smile. He was about to give anothermand to Lily, but sensing someone''s arrival, he stopped and looked ahead.

    At that same moment, a blue-haired woman wearing a professor''s robe entered the ssroom. With her entry, the entire ssroom fell silent, and all the students sat upright, looking at her with excited expressions on their faces. There were some asional whispers as the students waited for her to get to the podium.

    The blue-haired turned to look at the students and, while addressing them, she introduced herself with a smile.

    "Hello everyone, I am Olivia Calvert! You can call me Professor Olivia."

    Just after she introduced herself, some murmurs followed suit. But they died down soon after, as she continued speaking.

    "Since you all are sitting here. I''ll assume that you all are the students of Leviathan ss. I, Olivia Calvert, will be the ss instructor of Leviathan ss this year��"

    ��

    Professor Olivia spoke about various things and answered several questions.

    "Now, if everyone is clear. I''ll get to the next point."

    She paused for a few seconds, waiting to see if someone had any other questions. "No doubts? Okay, then I will continue."

    "The next thing about the academy that I have to tell you is about the Merit Point System here."

    "While you all are a student of the academy, you are allowed to collect something called Merit Point, which you can exchange for resources, treasures, or other benefits and privileges in the academy."

    When Olivia saw that there was not much reaction from the students, the corner of her lips curled upward into a smirk, as she said.

    "If you have enough merit points. You can even ask for the secret techniques of the professors."

    As soon as that statement was out. The students were in an uproar. It''s because the professors of Oracle Academy are all powerful people. Most of them are A-rank and there are also some S-ranks. If their techniques can be obtained by merits, then how wonderful it is.

    "For real?"

    "Can we get their secret techniques?"

    ��

    Diana raised her hand and questioned, "That means if I have enough merit points, can I learn your Movement Technique, Professor Olivia?"

 Chapter 134 Eager Diana!

    Chapter 134 Eager Diana!

    Diana raised her hand and questioned, "That means if I have enough merit points, can I learn your Movement Technique, Professor Olivia?"

    Olivia looked at Diana with some surprise. She didn''t expect her to be aware of her movement technique. ''Did a senior student tell her or has she seen me use it before?'' Thinking so, she smiled and nodded affirmatively. "Yes, you can learn my Movement Technique, too. But that''s if you have enough Merit Points to learn from me."

    There was another way to learn from her, without using Merit Points. But Olivia didn''t talk about it at that moment because that privilege is only for the Top 20 students. Even if Diana is eligible, currently, she is addressing all the students in her ss.

    Diana stood up excitedly and asked with some impatience. "How can I get those Merit Points?"

    "I am getting to that," Olivia said as she gestured for her to sit down, then continued. "You can get Merit Points for your performance, results, achievements,pletion of tasks, and many others."

    "Based on your performance in the Entrance Exam you all will get merit points. Which I''ll distribute right now."

    Olivia tapped on the podium, and a hologram screen appeared in front of her. Then she started exining the point distribution, "For the Written and Ability test. You all will receive one point for each mark. There will be a +100 bonus for full marks."

    After she said that, she tapped on the screen, and everyone got a notification in their mana bracelets. When they opened it to check, they found a Merit Points counter in their Student ID section.

    Luis checked it and found that he had received 400 merit points just now.

    ''Just 400 Merit Points are not enough for me to get that thing.'' He said inwardly but didn''t care much when he remembered the hidden bonus that he had yet to receive.

    "Next will be the distribution of points for the Survival Test." When Olivia mentioned that, the whispers and murmurs inside the ssroom came to a halt.

    "The points will be distributed based on the evaluation grade and kill count."

    "C grade: 500 points."

    "B grade: 1000 points."

    "A grade: 3000 points."

    "S grade: 10000 points."

    "And for every kill count, you will get 100 points."

    When the points were distributed this time. All the students had excited smiles on their faces. Especially the ones will higher kill counts.

    Luis saw that his Merit points had been increased by 31,700. 10000 is for S grade evaluation and 21700 is for his 217 kills. Now, including the previous 400, his Merit Points were 32,100. But he knew it wasn''t over yet, and just as he expected, he heard Professor Olivia say the next moment.

    "There is also a hidden bonus for the Survival Exam. But because the condition for obtaining that bonus is difficult given the limited time. No one has obtained it until this year."

    "The condition is to reach 200 Kill Count in the survival test of 120 minutes."

    As soon as the number was mentioned many eyes inside the ssroom nced towards the back. Following their gazes, Olivia also looked at Luis and smiled.

    "Last year, we were also thinking about removing that bonus, as we had not expected any candidate to ever reach that absurd goal. But this year someone really did it. Achieving that absurd condition and going beyond."

    Olivia pointed her hand towards Luis and continued, "The top student on the entrance exam, with a kill count of 217 kills! Student Luis Suarez! Receiving the hidden bonus of 1 million Merit Points! Please have a round of apuse for him!"

    *p* *p* *p* *p*

    Loud apuse broke out as many students looked at Luis enviously. Alicia also pped along, looking at Luis with a soft smile. Luis just smiled faintly and gave a slight nod to everyone.

    After the apuse died down, Olivia exined many other things regarding the rules and regtions of the academy.

    At first, the students didn''t care much about the rules, but when she mentioned that they might get kicked out of the academy for breaking the rules. They all listened attentively.

    ��

    Time passed as Olivia was done exining most of the things.

    "The sses will start tomorrow. Today, you all can get familiar with each other and look around the academy. Check around the clubs and the subjects you are interested in. I''m reminding you just in case, other than yourpulsory subjects, you will have to choose the subjects you are interested in. The time limit is 2 weeks from now. So better think it through."

    "That''s it for today. See you all tomorrow."

    YES, PROFESSOR!

    The students shouted in unison.

    Seeing this, Olivia smiled at everyone and left the ssroom.

    ***

    After Olivia left, the ssroom once again became noisy as the students started talking with each other.

    "Professor Olivia is so beautiful, right?"

    "Yeah, her figure is amazing. I was having a hard time listening to what she was saying."

    "Haha, me too."

    "Guess she will give us this beautiful torture every day from now on."

    "Hehe, I can''t wait for it!"

    The boys'' adolescence talks aside. Some girls have already regarded Professor Olivia as their idol.

    "Professor Olivia is so amazing! I want to be just like her!"

    "Yeah, she is so beautiful and also very powerful!"

    �� n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Diana quietly listened to the talks of the girls near her. But seeing that none of them were talking about fighting and training, she became disappointed.

    ''What beauty and looks? Aren''t they here in this academy to be stronger?''

    To her, the purpose of joining this academy was to get stronger and meet powerful opponents of the same age to fight with her.

    ''But why is no one talking about fighting? There is no ss today, so shouldn''t someonee and challenge me to a duel?''

    She eagerly scanned her surroundings. Waiting for someone to initiate a challenge. But even after a few minutes, no one came to her, which is why she became impatient and decided to look for an opponent herself.

 Chapter 135 Challenge!

    Chapter 135 Challenge!

    "Wow buddy, you got so many Merit Points. Amazing��" Ben said, as his eyes looked at Luis with admiration.

    Alicia on the side said with a slight frown, "If I hadn''t wasted so much time looking for you, then maybe I could have reached 200 kills, too."

    Luis didn''t deny her statement. He knows Alicia''s strength well and, in the test, Alicia ignored most of her opponents and only eliminated those who attacked her. If she had aggressively attacked the opponents, increasing her kill count instead of looking for him, then maybe she could have fulfilled the condition for the hidden bonus.

    "It''s just a possibility. Moreover, maybe and ifs can''t change the past." Luis said with a shrug, which made Alicia pout.

    "Hmph, who knows there might be a way to change the past, too," Alicia said with a snort.

    Luis smiled and asked teasingly, "You want to change the past just to get Merit Points?"

    When she heard his question. Alicia blushed slightly and snorted, turning her head away.

    Seeing her actions, Luis wanted to tease her more, but thinking that they were still inside the ssroom, he restrained himself andforted her, "Alicia, you just lost one opportunity. Didn''t you hear what Professor Olivia said? In the future, we will have a lot of opportunities to obtain merit points. Just make the best of it then."

    Hearing this, Alicia nodded with an ''um'', but she still didn''t face him.

    Ben, on the side, was ignored and had to see the two of them flirt. Seeing them together made him think that having a girlfriend seems good. ''Maybe I should get buddy''s opinionter. He seems like an experienced person. He has such a beautiful fianc��e, after all.'' Thinking of this, Ben''s admiration for Luis increased further.

    Luis was about to say something to Alicia but paused when he felt someone''s intent gaze on him.

    He turned his head to look at the source of that gaze and couldn''t help but be slightly surprised when he saw the familiar person approaching him.

    ''Interesting! I was still thinking of when to approach you, but you came to me first�� Diana Tres.''

    ---

    In search of a powerful opponent in her ss, Diana turned to look in the back row and her eyes fell on Luis and Alicia. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ''YES! Why should I look for other opponents when I have the two of them in my ss?!''

    She has seen their match after her elimination, so she knows they are strong and are the perfect opponents she was looking for.

    So, without wasting any time, Diana stood up excitedly and decided to challenge them to a duel.

    ---

    Luis curiously observed Diana, who was standing near them and staring back at them with an excited expression on her face.

    Alicia''s previous shyness had disappeared as she looked at the Beast-Kin girl in front of her with a frown on her face. Confused about her purpose for approaching them.

    At this moment, the other students in the ss were also giving them curious nces. Wondering about the purpose of the fifth-rank student in approaching the top two students.

    Diana didn''t care about the gazes she was receiving. Pointing her finger at Luis, she said with an excited smile. "I challenge you to a duel!"

    As soon as she stated that. All the students became excited, wondering if they would get to see the confrontation between two S-grade students.

    ''I thought as much,'' Luis said inwardly, not surprised by her challenge. But before he could give her a reply, Alicia asked first. "Why are you challenging him?"

    Alicia wondered if this Beast-Kin girl had some ulterior motive behind this challenge. Thinking of this, her frown deepened as she looked at her inquisitively. If Luis knew about Alicia''s doubtful thoughts at this moment, he would be speechless. After all, Diana is the most straightforward person among all the heroines.

    Diana''s excited eyes shifted to Alicia as she answered, "Because he is strong! I''ll challenge you too after I fight with him!"

    When she saw her eyes full of battle intent, Alicia''s frown eased a bit. ''Maybe I was thinking too much.'' She didn''t respond to Diana''ster statement and turned to look at Luis, wondering what he would do.

    Luis nodded at Diana and said, "I ept your challenge! I''m also curious to know how amazing your Jungle Karate is!"

    When she heard him mention her ''Jungle Karate'', Diana became even more excited. "As expected of the opponent I chose! You know about my strengths!"

    Luis just smiled and didn''tment on it because he was receiving a dangerous re from his side. He turned to Alicia and gestured to her that he would exinter, which made her calm down, but her expression remained cold.

    "Okay, let''s fight!" Diana said, taking on a fighting stance.

    Luis gave her a nk look and said, "Not here. Let''s go fight on the training ground."

    Diana thought about it and felt maybe it really was inappropriate to duel inside the ss. So, she promptly agreed. To her, the location doesn''t matter, all she wants is a good fight.

    With that, Luis, Alicia, Diana and Ben left the ssroom, followed by the crowd of curious ssmates.

    "Did you hear that?! They are going to battle!"

    "It''s going to be exciting!"

    "Is it okay to follow them?"

    "Of course, a duel needs to have an audience."

    "Yeah, you are right."

    Seeing this crowd of students from Leviathan ss together, a professor became curious and got to know about the matter of the duel.

    So, he immediately tapped on his mana bracelet and made a call.

    [Yes Professor, why did you call me?] Professor Olivia''s hologram appeared on the professor''s mana bracelet.

    "Professor Olivia, something interesting is transpiring among the students of your ss." The professor said with a smile.

    Upon hearing that it pertained to students from her ss, Olivia''s curiosity piqued, and she eagerly inquired, [What do you mean?]

    "It''s like this��" The professor didn''t hold back and exined the matter. This way, Olivia also got to know about this duel between her two students.

 Chapter 136 Duel!

    Chapter 136 Duel!

    ''Wasn''t it supposed to be a simple duel?'' Luis thought inwardly as he nced sideways to look at the crowd of students cheering. In the audience, Alicia was frowning while Professor Olivia, who had just appeared a moment ago, stood beside her, looking over with interest.

    ''Since Professor Olivia is not stopping us, that means she has no problem with us dueling. Right?'' Thinking so, Luis looked in front of him to face the excited Diana, full of battle intent. Ben stood on the side as he had taken the initiative to be the referee of this duel.

    Luis was still wondering why they were making it look like an official duel. When it''s just a simple fighting match.

    "Can we start already?"

    His thoughts came to a sudden stop because of Diana''s question.

    "Yes, let''s start!" Luis replied with a faint smile. As he thought inwardly, ''As long as this match goes as I want, my n of making Diana my thug will proceed smoothly.''

    Ben, as the referee, carried out his job with profound seriousness. "This is a duel between Diana Tres from Leviathan ss and Luis Suarez, also from Leviathan ss. The time limit is 15 minutes, and the fighters shall fight until the opponent is knocked out or surrenders."

    Then, he warned them seriously. "In case of serious injuries, the duel shall stop immediately. Prohibiting the rules may lead to serious consequences."

    Luis looked at his friend with a speechless expression, andined inwardly, ''Bro, this is just a friendly duel, okay?! Not some death match between mortal enemies!''

    Professor Olivia looked at Ben with slight surprise. ''This student has a talent for being a referee.'' Of course, it was just a momentary thought. What she appreciated more was that he took his job seriously even in an official duel. This shows his personality, and she likes this kind of diligent student.

    "Are the two of you ready?!" Ben asked loudly.

    Diana nodded excitedly and shouted. "YES!"

    Luis also answered calmly, "Yes, I am."

    "In that case, after my countdown, this duel shall begin," Ben said, and raising his hand in the air, he did the reverse count.

    "THREE!"

    "TWO!"

    "ONE!"

    Then, shing his hand downwards, he shouted. "FIGHTERS!!! FACE-OFF!!!"

    ***

    As soon as the match started, without wasting any time, Diana rushed towards Luis. For most of the students in the audience, her speed was quite fast, but in front of Luis, it wasn''t much. However, he still didn''t make a move and waited for her to attack first.

    Diana thought that Luis was too arrogant, as he wasn''t taking her seriously and it made her angry. As soon as she got close to him, she punched him heavily. Showing the power of her Beast-Kin physique.

    Facing her attack, Luis also punched back, covering his fist with mana coating.

    As their fists collided, a loud exploding sound was heard.

    *Boom!*

    The next second, Diana''s body retreated as she stared at Luis with excitement. "Your punch was good! You really are powerful!"

    "The same goes for you. Your physique is very strong," Luis praised her sincerely. In that punch, just now, he had used the strength of a 2-star E rank. Diana, being an F-rank, can face it head-on, which shows how perverted her physique is.

    Diana grinned at Luis'' praise and reminded, "I''ll get serious from now on!"

    "I can''t wait for it," Luis said with a calm expression.

    Diana hung her shoulders a little and took on a pose that might look weird. But Luis looked at her calmly, as he knew that she was going to use her talent now.

    "Jungle Karate: Gori Style Fist!" Diana''s fists swelled up as she attacked him again.

    ''Um, why are you announcing it to me that your next attacks will be punches?'' Luis wanted to question, but Diana''s punches had already arrived by then.

    This time, Luis used the strength of a Five-Star E-rank to face her attacks.

    *BOOM! *

    *BOOM! *

    *BAM! *

    *BOOM! *

    As their punches collided, they created shockwaves in the air. The power shown by them surprised the students in the audience.

    "They are so powerful!"

    "It''s still too early to express your admiration."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Can''t you see? They have only attacked each other with punches! The fight has just started! They have yet to show any real moves!"

    "Right! Luis is a Thunder Element user, and he hasn''t used his element until now!"

    "But will he even use it? I heard it was just a friendly match between them!"

    "Well, we can only wait and see!"

    Professor Olivia also heard the talk between the students. But she didn''t say anything about it and continued observing the battle silently.

    Alicia, who was standing beside Olivia, was slightly surprised by the power that she felt from Diana''s punches. ''Her physical attacks are good. I might not be able to defeat her with martial arts alone.'' n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ---

    Diana''s punches got fiercer and fiercer as she felt the power behind Luis'' punches. "You were holding back before!"

    "So were you," Luis said calmly, as the speed of his punches also increased, following Diana.

    Diana grinned and said, "In that case, let''s try this."

    "Jungle Karate: Kangaroo Style Kick!"

    Her thighs swelled a little then,bining her kangaroo style along with her previous gori style. Diana started attacking Luis with her powerful fists and kicks simultaneously.

    Luis only used his pure martial arts, along with Mana Coating, to cope with her attacks.

    The intensity of their fight increased several times. Because of their collisions, the surrounding ground had several pits and cracks.

    But Luis and Diana didn''t care about any of that and kept on attacking each other.

    Diana felt her blood boiling because of the intensity. She was very excited in her heart and happy about her decision to challenge him.

    If not for that, she wouldn''t have had the opportunity to experience this amazing battle.

    ''As I thought,ing to Oracle Academy was my best decision. I knew I could find powerful opponents of my age.''

    At this moment, Diana had a feeling that she was going to enjoy her academic life.

 Chapter 137 Depressed!

    137 Depressed!

    Unfortunately for Diana, her happiness didn''tst long. Before the two of them could get serious and unleash some powerful moves. Olivia appeared between them and interrupted their fight. "That''s enough! Both of you can stop now!"

    When Luis saw that Professor Olivia caught his punch, he nodded with a calm expression and put down his raised fist. On the other hand, Dianained with an unhappy face, "What?! Why stop it now, Professor? It was just getting good!"

    Professor Olivia pointed her finger towards the ground and said, "The ruckus that the two of you made had already caused so much damage. If I let you two go all out, I don''t know how much damage there will be. As your ss instructor, they will hold me ountable for it."

    "So, do you still want to continue?" Professor Olivia asked with a smile. But that smile made Diana shudder, and she retreated a few steps.

    "No, Professor, I''m good. There is no need to continue," Diana replied hastily while shaking her head. As if afraid to let Professor Olivia misunderstand her.

    Luis was observing the damage they did to their surroundings and asked curiously, "Professor, this kind of damage should be a normal urrence in the academy, right? Is it really a big enough deal for you to take responsibility?"

    ''In the game, it was not once that the protagonist destroyed the academy''s buildings and facilities in the process of fighting his enemies, but as that was a game, they did not hold the yer responsible. I mean, what kind of stupid game would do that?'' Because of this, Luis was genuinely curious about how it would turn out in real life. ''Will they punish Alex? I kind of want to see that.''

    Professor Olivia nodded at Luis and said, "Yes, this kind of damage is normal here." Then her eyes squinted, and she started to reprimand him.

    "But that is in an official duel. Yours was an unofficial one, and you didn''t even get my permission before the two of you started fighting here. If we allow the students to fight wherever they want. Won''t the academy end up in a mess? There''s a reason that we set up the Battle Arena, okay? So, the next time you want to go all out, fight in the Battle Arena! Don''t make a mess of the training ground!"

    Hearing this, Luis lowered his head awkwardly. It''s not that he didn''t know about the Battle Arena. It''s just that he didn''t want to lose his opportunity there for his fight with Diana.

    He rubbed the back of his head and tried to exin, "Actually, Professor, because you arrived here before the fight started and didn''t stop us. I assumed that it was not a problem for us to fight here."

    When she heard his exnation, Professor Olivia grinned and said, "My silence doesn''t mean my approval."

    Looking at Professor Olivia, Luis'' mouth twitched. He wondered if she did it on purpose. And just like he had expected. The next moment, Professor Olivia''s face returned to a neutral expression, and she said, "Remember toe to my office tomorrow after the sses to receive your punishment."

    ''So, you intentionally found fault just to punish me?!''

    Luis looked at Professor Olivia speechlessly. While in his mind, he was using his Performer talent at full throttle. Analyzing her changes in expression at the time of their conversation with serenity. On the surface, he showed a wry expression and nodded, "Yes, Professor. I''ll be there in time to receive my punishment."

    Satisfied with his response, Olivia nodded expressionlessly and was about to leave. That''s when a doubtful voice sounded beside them.

    "Um, Professor, will I be also punished?" Diana asked with a confused expression.

    Professor Olivia paused for a moment, then nodded seriously, "�� Yes, so you better be there on time."

    ''Can you please not make it any more obvious?! Your expression says it all! You just remembered her!'' Luisined inwardly while thinking that his talent probably wasn''t even needed to judge her.

    ***

    After Olivia left, the crowd dismissed.

    Diana looked at Luis and said, "You are a strong opponent. Too bad we had to stop." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Luis smiled and said, "You are not bad either. I envy your powerful physique."

    When she heard his praise, Diana grinned and said, "I''ll be even stronger when I challenge you again." Then, thinking of something, she paused and continued, "Next time, let''s go to that so-called Battle Arena so that we won''t be interrupted."

    Luis just gave a nod and didn''t speak further.

    ---

    After separating from Ben and Diana, he went to Alicia, who was standing there waiting for him with her hands folded.

    As he saw her looking at him with a slight frown on her face, Luis sighed and said, "Let''s talk as we head back."

    When she heard this, Alicia''s frown eased a bit, and she nodded.

    ---

    On their way back to their ssroom. Alicia looked at Luis beside him and asked, "Will you go?"

    "Yes," Luis answered with a nod. He knew that Alicia was talking about Olivia''s punishment excuse for calling him.

    Hearing his response, Alicia''s eyes squinted as she asked, "Do you know what she wants from you?"

    "No," Luis answered honestly.

    After a moment of silence, she said, "�� I''ll go with you."

    "You sure?" Luis asked, slightly surprised.

    "Yeah, since you are so confident about going. That means you are ready to use that spell in the worst scenario. So, if anything goes wrong, you can just get us out safely, right?"

    Luis nodded, agreeing with her, because that is what he had nned. If he finds the situation is wrong, he is ready to teleport. Moreover, the possibility of Olivia doing something bad to them is quite low. That is, if her character is not different from the one he is familiar with in the game.

    "Maybe we are thinking too much. Even if she has other intentions, she might not be hostile to us," Luis said with a sigh.

    "That''s for the best." Alicia also nodded.

    "Since that''s out of the way." She mumbled, then turning to face Luis sharply, she asked with a re, "Mind telling what is up with Diana Tres?"

    When he heard her mention about Diana. A wry smile appeared on Luis'' face. ''I knew she would ask this.''

    "She just challenged me to a duel. You saw what happened."

    "You know perfectly that''s not what I am talking about."

    "�� I''ll tell you about itter."

    "Good."

    ***

    Inside the Jormundgar ssroom.

    Amidst the noisy chatter andughter of the students. A green-haired girl was sitting quietly with a nk expression on her face. This person was none other than our regressor, Sera Dennis. Since this morning, she has been depressed because of the ss division.

    ''Why did I have to be separated from Alex? Last time we were together in the same ss. So why couldn''t it be the same this time?''

    ''Moreover, Alex is in the Fenrir ss, along with those two bitches.''

    Just thinking about it, Sera became even more depressed. At this moment, a purple-haired boy with spiky hair appeared next to her and called out.

    "Hey, Sera. Why are you looking so down today?"

    Sera turned to look at the purple-haired boy standing next to her, showing a look of concern. ''If I hadn''t known about your true self. I would have probably been fooled.'' She was disgusted at this moment. But hiding it well under her nk expression, she uttered.

    "What do you want, Markeith?"

    Markeith was taken aback by her response, but he immediately rposed himself and said with a stressed expression.

    "I''m just worried about you as a friend."

    Seeing him act, Sera really wanted to punch him in the face. But she took a deep breath to calm herself down and stated. "I''m fine. You don''t have to worry about me."

    With that said, she stood up from her seat and immediately left the ssroom. Or else she might not be able to resist beating up that hypocrite guy.

    ***

    For the rest of the day, Luis, along with Alicia went around the campus and toured some clubs. They found many subjects and clubs that interested them. But they thought of trying everything first before deciding on anything. After all, they still had two weeks to make their choices.

    ***

    After lunch, Luis and Alicia returned to the dorm and were now inside Luis'' private gym.

    Alicia stood there wearing a blue tracksuit, as she asked curiously. "What kind of training is it?"

    "Did Mom not tell you?" Luis asked with a surprised expression. Because from what he had expected, Lumine should have already told her about this.

    "No." Alicia replied, shaking her head and asked, "You mean Aunt knows about this training method that you are going to show to me now?"

    Luis nodded and said with a smile, "Yes, with this training, our growth will be much faster, and you can do this training anytime."

    "Really?" Alicia asked in surprise.

    Guys, myptop wasn''t working today. Ended up writing in my phone.

 Chapter 138 Gravity Training!

    138 Gravity Training!

    "Yes, in this training, I am going to use a spell of mine called ''Gravity''."

    As soon as she heard the spell''s name, Alicia''s face had a look of realization. "Will we train under a higher gravitational pressure?"

    When he heard her guess correctly, Luis nodded with a smile and said, "Indeed, I am going to increase the gravitational pressure in which we will live and train every day from now on."

    Although Alicia was amazed that Luis still had such a wonderful spell with him. This also made her concerned. So, she asked worriedly, "But Luis, what about your mana consumption? Will you be okay leaving that spell activated the entire time?"

    "Don''t worry, it''s fine. Gravity spell''s mana consumption is proportional to the pressure. In the beginning, I will increase the gravitational pressure by only a few times. Moreover, the affected area will be limited to our bodies, so the consumption isn''t much. With my current mana, I can keep that spell active at 5 times the gravity for at least 3 days. Given my mana recovery speed. This much is nothing." Luis said with a shrug.

    Alicia nodded in understanding, and with his words of assurance, she wasn''t worried anymore.

    ---

    "Gravity!"

    When Luis used his spell on her. Alicia felt her body bing heavier and her movements became a little sluggish. Maybe because Alicia was an E-rank, the 1.5 times gravity wasn''t much pressure for her.

    "It''s amazing��" Alicia mumbled in amazement, then she requested. "Luis, could you please increase the pressure to 3 times?"

    "You sure?" Luis asked, not surprised by her request.

    "I want to experience it," Alicia said firmly.

    "Sure, if that''s what you want." Saying that, he increased the gravitational pressure around her from 1.5 to 3 times.

    "Uhm." Alicia immediately felt the difference. It''s not that the pressure was unbearable for her, but being under this level of pressure constantly would undeniably be quite ufortable for her.

    She tried lifting the 30 kg weights and was surprised to find that they were much heavier than usual.

    Seeing her actions, Luis on the side reminded her. "You are now living in 3 times the normal gravity of this, so for you, the weight of the items that you will carry will also be thrice their usual weight."

    "Ah!" Alicia eximed in realization. Then uttered with an excited smile, "If that''s the case, then it''s even better."

    Thinking of something, Alicia turned to look at Luis and asked curiously. "What level of pressure will you train under, Luis?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Me?" Luis pointed at himself, then answered casually, "5 times."

    Alicia was silent for a few seconds, then she said, "�� I''ll break through to D rank soon, then I will practice under 5 times gravity too."

    "Good!" Luis said with a smile, then suggested, "Now, shall we start?"

    "Um." Alicia nodded.

    Then, for the next few hours, Luis at 5 times gravity and Alicia at 3 times gravity trained in Luis'' private gym until they were exhausted to the limit. Now the two of themy on the floor with almost no strength to move anymore.

    "*Hah*�� *Hah*�� even if the growth is fast�� *Hah*�� The difficulty of training�� *Hah*�� has also increased a lot," Alicia said while breathing heavily.

    Luis just answered with a ''hmm'' as he rested with closed eyes. Two minutester, under Alicia''s surprised eyes, Luis stood up on his feet.

    "�� Aren''t you tired?" Alicia asked because she didn''t see him taking a recovery potion.

    "Well, I still am," Luis said with a tired sigh, then continued. "But don''t forget, I have a ''Recovery Skill'' as well."

    "Oh, right," Alicia mumbled, then closed her eyes to rest.

    Luis looked at her for a bit and asked, "Need me to bring you a Recovery Potion?"

    With her eyes still closed, Alicia replied, "No need. I have them with me. I just want to try and see if I could increase my natural recovery speed under the 3 times gravity training."

    "Oh, natural recovery, huh?" Luis said with a faint smile as he thought inwardly, ''Once your bloodline awakens, your natural recovery speed will be one of your most terrifying aspects.''

    But even if that were the case, since she was trying, he wouldn''t stop her actions. After all, there may be some unexpected gains. ''Like her triggering her bloodline awakening?'' As soon as he thought of this, Luis shook his head in dismissal. ''If only it were that easy.''

    Giving another nce at her figure, Luis smirked and said, "Whether it''s sleeping or sses, from this day on, we will be living under this pressure 24/7. So, get used to it fast, then I''ll increase the pressure."

    Alicia opened her eyes and said with slight annoyance. "Yeah, I know. Now just let me rest, okay?"

    Luis continued looking at her without speaking, and after a moment he crouched down and picked her up in a bridal carry.

    "Wha-wha?!" Alicia opened her eyes wide and eximed in surprise. A blush appeared on her face, and before she could say anything, she heard his question.

    "Shall I carry you to the bed, so you can rest there?"

    Alicia''s lips twitched as sheined, "That is something you should ask before picking me up!"

    Luis showed an innocent expression and said with a shrug, "I am just being efficient."

    Alicia was speechless by Luis'' acting, but she was too tired to continue arguing. So, she just uttered with a sigh. "Whatever�� Just don''t try to take advantage of this situation. Or else I''ll freeze you once I am recovered."

    "Don''t worry, I only wanted to carry you to bed so that you could have a proper rest. As an upright gentleman, those shameless acts of taking advantage are beneath me." Luis said very sincerely and his hand, which was about to rub her thigh, paused immediately.

    Alicia scoffed at his words and didn''t say anything about it.

    After gently cing her on the bed, Luis went to take a shower.

    When he came out, he saw that Alicia had already fallen asleep, so he tapped on his mana bracelet and said, "Lily, if Alicia wakes up before Ie back. Tell her that I went out for a bit."

    {Yes, Master~}

    ---

    As he left his t, Luis thought with a smile, ''Now it''s time to make use of those Merit Points.''

 Chapter 139 Introductions!

    139 Introductions!

    Just as Luis was about to leave, he caught sight of the open door across from Alicia''s t and witnessed a red-haired girl stepping out in casual clothing.

    ''Hmm, perfect timing. Let''s use this opportunity to get acquainted with her.'' Luis thought as he observed that girl with a neutral expression.

    Rura, who came out of her t, felt someone''s gaze on her. So, she turned to her right and saw a ck-haired, handsome boy standing in front of t number 1, and his gray eyes were looking at her with a calm expression.

    ''It''s him!'' She immediately recognized him. ''Luis Suarez, the top student of the entrance exam! He is from the Suarez Family of Tryston City.''

    A powerful family, just like her Wayne Family. It''s just that, unlike the Wayne family, that has the support of the Aiverson Royal family. The Suarez family has grown to this point because of Hero Henry.

    Thinking of her Wayne family, Rura''s mood becameplicated. So, she decided to stop these thoughts and brought her focus back to Luis, who had been staring at her for a while now.

    "Hello, Miss Rura." Suddenly Luis took the initiative to greet.

    It did not surprise Rura that Luis knew of her. Her name as the genius alchemist is quite famous in the upper circles.

    "Hello, Mr. Luis," Rura replied kindly. For this boy who had humiliated Thomas Aiverson in the test before, she still has quite a favourable opinion.

    It surprised Luis when Rura didn''t give him the cold shoulder. But he instantly guessed that it must be because of what he did to Thomas. Thinking so, Luis decided to make full use of this situation.

    With a smile on his face, he walked towards her and said, "It seems Miss Rura knows about me. But I would still like to give you a proper introduction of myself so that Miss Rura doesn''t think of me as an impolite person."

    "I will not," Rura replied with an amused expression and waited for him to introduce himself.

    "I''m Luis Suarez, from Aiverson Empire and a student of the same year as you. Happy to make your acquaintance and hope to be good neighbours for our academic year." Luis said very elegantly while showing a gentlemanly temperament.

    Hearing this, Rura also responded kindly with a slight bow, "I am Rura Wayne, from the Aiverson Empire, just like you. I also look forward to being good neighbours for the academic year."

    After she was done introducing herself, Rura looked up into his eyes and said, "Now that the introductions are over. Can Mr. Luis tell me his purpose in approaching me?"

    Even if she had a favourable opinion of him. It doesn''t mean that she would let it slide when his intentional approach was so obvious.

    ''Hmm, so she decided to be upfront while showing her guard. This makes it easier!'' Luis thought inwardly. While on the surface, he was taken aback and chuckled. "No, Miss Rura. I think you have misunderstood."

    "Hm, is that so?" Rura said with a neutral expression as she stared at him.

    Luis nodded and exined with a sincere expression, "Yes, I was just interested in getting acquainted with you."

    "Hmm," Rura continued staring at him and a momentter she asked, "If I am not wrong, Mr. Luis is already engaged and has a beautiful fianc��e. Is it alright for you to get acquainted with other girls behind her back?"

    When he heard this, Luis chuckled and said while shaking his head, "No, Miss. Rura, I am not interested in you in that way. I do have a good rtionship with my fianc��e, and we get along quite well."

    "Then what is your reason for approaching me?" Rura asked with some confusion and her guard eased up a bit.

    Luis opened his arms and said with an honest expression, "Well, I was just curious about Prince Thomas'' girlfriend."

    "��"

    A few secondster, he heard Rura ask in a low voice, "�� What did you say? Can you repeat that for me?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ''Oh, she is furious?'' Luisughed inwardly, but on the outside, he replied to her ignorantly. "Well, I said I was curious about Prince Thomas'' girlfri-"

    "WHO THE HELL IS HIS GIRLFRIEND?! DON''T TALK NONSENSE!" Cutting him off mid-sentence, Rura roared furiously. Her ruby eyes red at Luis fiercely. Her breathing became intense as she looked at him with hatred.

    She was just a step away from attacking him. If he didn''t give her a reasonable answer now, she would show him the wraith of a genius alchemist. That was the kind of vibe Luis was getting from Rura''s expression.

    With some surprise in his voice, Luis asked with a confused expression, "Eh? Are you not?"

    "OF COURSE NOT!!!" Rura roared.

    "Oh, is that so? Prince Thomas told me you are his girlfriend. Did I mistake you for someone else?" Luis uttered with an innocent expression. There was also a hint of apology mixed in his tone. But obviously, that was fake. He didn''t even bat an eye to shift all of Rura''s anger towards Thomas with just his single sentence.

    "No wonder!" Rura eximed while taking deep breaths to calm down her anger. She didn''t doubt Luis'' words at all. Because that was something Thomas could undoubtedly do.

    ''That bastard has now started to proim me as his girlfriend!'' Rura gritted her teeth in anguish. At this moment, she really wanted to beat Thomas to death.

    But of course, this is something she could only think about. In reality, until the day she is connected to the Wayne family, she is helpless against the Aiverson Royal Family.

    While Rura was cursing Thomas in her mind. She heard Luis'' words of apology.

    "It seems that I had misunderstood, Miss Rura. I apologize." Luis said with a serious expression.

    *Sigh* Rura sighed helplessly and said while shaking her head. "This is not Mr. Luis'' fault. This misunderstanding happened because of Prince Thomas."

    "I apologize for losing myposure and shouting at you. Allow me to make it clear, I am not Prince Thomas'' girlfriend. This is just his self-proimed statement."

 Chapter 140 Proposal!

    Chapter 140 Proposal!

    "I understand. I''m also at fault for making you displeased, Miss Rura." Luis said with a repentant expression. Then he sighed and mumbled as if self-talking, but his voice was audible enough for Rura to hear. "She is not his girlfriend, so was the proposal talk also a misunderstanding?"

    "What proposal?!" Rura inquired with a serious stare.

    "Huh? Oh, did I say that out loud?" Luis asked with a bewildering expression.

    "Just answer me! Mr. Luis! What proposal were you talking about?!" Rura asked anxiously. She had a bad feeling about this. ''Don''t tell me it is what I think it is.'' While scratching the back of his head, Luis said somewhat awkwardly. "Um, well, maybe what I heard could have been a misunderstanding. But Prince Thomas said something about sending an engagement proposal to the Wayne family soon. He is probably thinking about getting engaged to you within this year."

    Hearing this, Rura''s expression darkened. ''So, it really is.'' Her worst fears came true. She had expected this day toe, eventually. But she didn''t think it would happen this early. ''I am not ready yet! My form isn''tplete! I can''t cut ties with the family yet!'' She had put all her hopes into her form. Hoping to use it as a wager to escape from the Wayne family and the Aiverson Royal Family. Because she believed that once her form waspleted. There would be many who would be willing to give her protection.

    For now, she is just a genius alchemist with good potential. But once her form isplete, she will be the most sought-after alchemist in the entire Alnaur. *Snap! *

    Luis snapped his fingers, which brought Rura out of her thoughts. When he confirmed that her attention was back to him, Luis asked with a look of concern, "Miss. Rura, yourplexion has be pale. Are you okay?"

    When Rura heard Luis'' words, a bitter smile appeared on her face. Now a stranger was more worried about her rather than her family. "Thanks for asking, Mr. Luis. I will be fine. It''s just that the news came as too big of a shock for me." Rura said with a sad expression.

    Luis nodded, showing a look of understanding, then he sighed and said as ifforting her, "The news isn''t official yet, Miss Rura. Maybe it was a misunderstanding between Prince Thomas and me." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    At his words, Rura shook her head and said with a wry smile, "You don''t have tofort me, Mr. Luis. Even if the news isn''t official and they have not sent the proposal. If Prince Thomas had said so, then they might really send an engagement proposal within this year."

    Luis pursed his lips as if hesitating whether tofort her. But inwardly, his thoughts were inplete contrast to his outward appearance. ''Haha, thanks to my Performer Talent, my acting skills have improved a lot. At first, I thought it might take some time for me to make her believe in my words. Surprisingly, she didn''t doubt me at all, so no extra effort was needed.'' ''Well, if we set aside the incident of me eliminating him. On the surface, we can say my rtionship with Thomas doesn''t seem bad to outsiders. Moreover, two boys talking about girls in their conversation doesn''t seem odd at all. So, it''s normal for others to believe that Thomas could share or brag about these things with me, a boy the same age as him.''

    But did Thomas really tell Luis about Rura and the proposal? Of course not! After the humiliation, Luis gave him during the test. If Thomas can resist himself from attacking Luis, that''s already a big deal. Where can they have leisure to chat about their love life? ''No, wait. I did brag about my fianc��e in front of him. Though he could not share his. Not that I was interested to know.'' Luis stopped thinking about these things as he observed Rura showing a sympathetic gaze. He wasn''t worried about his lie being caught because he had everything nned. Now he just needed to let his rtionship with Rura reach a level that can be considered quite good. After that, he can get Alicia''s help. Let her take care of it so that he doesn''t have to worry about Rura falling in love with him.

    ''If I wasn''t so handsome, I wouldn''t have been so troubled.''

    With a sigh, Luis tried to show a warm smile, which felt more like a pitying gaze as he said, "Miss Rura, although I don''t know why you dislike Prince Thomas. I hope you can cheer up. If you don''t want to, then just reject him. I''m sure your family and the Royal family will understand."

    Of course, Luis knew that what he said was just nonsense, because Rura''s situation with her family was very troubling. He knew everything about it, maybe some things that even Rura had no idea about.

    But who was he? He was just an outsider who shouldn''t be aware of the inner troubles of her family. So as not to make her wary of him, it''s better to act as an ignorant third person who was just pitying her, knowing bits and pieces about her situation.

    When Rura heard his warm words, full of care andfort. She knew that Luis was a good person, and she wasn''t as guarded towards him as she was before. Still, his words offort didn''t help her at all.

    Shaking her head, she mumbled, her helplessness evident, "If only it were like that." Then lowering her head with a bitter smile, she said self-depreciatingly. "I just wonder if my attempts to escape my arranged fate are futile."

    Rather than asking Luis. This was more of self-talk, questioning herself if her efforts would end up in vain.

    ''*Sigh*, why am I being so pessimistic about it? I still have time; everything isn''t over yet!''

    Encouraging herself in her mind. Rura took a deep breath, calming herself down and turned to look at Luis, who seemed to be deep in thought.

 Chapter 141 Exchange Center!

    Chapter 141 Exchange Center!

    ''*Sigh*, why am I being so pessimistic about it? I still have time; everything isn''t over yet!''

    Encouraging herself in her mind. Rura took a deep breath, calming herself down and turned to look at Luis, who seemed to be deep in thought. With a smile on her face, she said, "I''m thankful to you for sharing that news and listening to my rants. Please, just forget about it." Then, seeing Luis nod with a look of understanding, she added in a joking manner, "Also, you shouldn''t show such care and worry about other girls, otherwise your fianc��e might get jealous." "Really?" Luis chuckled at her words and said, "Well, if Miss Rura says so, I''ll keep your words in mind."

    "You better!" Rura showed a stern expression, thenughed softly.

    Luisughed alongside her, then, showing an expression, as if he just thought of something, he said. "By the way, Miss Rura, I hope you can get along well with my fianc��e and hopefully be friends."

    "Oh, why do you want us to be friends? Do you have some ulterior motives?" Rura raised an eyebrow and asked jokingly.

    ''Yes, I do. I want you to be my loyal subordinate and make potions for me.'' Of course, he just thought that in his mind and didn''t say that out loud. Shaking his head, Luis said with a smile, "It''s nothing like that. It''s just that my fianc��e doesn''t have any friends. With Miss Rura by her side, I can be assured that she will have a good friend."

    Although it felt good to be trusted, Rura still asked with a faint smile, "How can you be so sure? You don''t know much about me!" n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Luis nodded and said with a serious expression, "What you said is true. But from what I observed and got to know about you in our conversation just now. I have a feeling that you are a good person."

    Hearing Luis'' praise, a soft smile appeared on Rura''s face and her previously depressed mood also improved. With a slight nod, she said, "I can''t say for sure. But if we do get along well, then I will naturally be friends with her."

    "Those words are enough," Luis said with a smile. Then, after a little more chat with Rura, he tapped on his mana bracelet to check the time. ''Hmm, we have been talking for more than half an hour. Well, this much is enough.''

    Thinking so, he looked at her and said, "Well, Miss Rura, I have somewhere to go. If we have an opportunity next time, let''s chat again."

    "Yeah, sure. As long as your fianc��e is with us, too." Rura said with a chuckle.

    Luis also smiled while shaking his head and said sincerely, "Getting acquainted with Miss Rura, the genius alchemist whom I''ve heard a lot about. Now I am very interested to witness your creations and see whether you are as good as your reputation says you are."

    "Sure! I will show you next time that my title isn''t just for appearances." Rura replied with a smile. Not thinking too much about his words. Now, she had a very good opinion of Luis. A kind, caring and most of all, a loyal person. Throughout their entire conversation, his eyes looking at her didn''t show the slightest bit of attraction towards her. ''His fianc��e is a lucky girl.'' Rura thought with a sigh.

    "I look forward to it. Then, see youter, Miss Rura."

    Unaware of Rura''s thoughts at this moment, Luis said goodbye to her and left with a smile on his face.

    ***

    As he came out of the dorm, Luis thought. ''Rura and my current rtionship should be more than acquaintance and less than friends.''

    ''Well, that''s more than good enough. Now I just have to n an opportunity to witness her alchemy skills and try to find out at what stage her current progress of the Multiplier Potion is.''

    ''Hmm, but before all that, I need to get Alicia''s help and let her in on some of my ns. I don''t want to create any unnecessary misunderstandingster on.''

    Thinking so, Luis started walking in the direction of the campus. There was still some time before the evening, as Luis saw many pedestrians along the way and stopped at a shop to buy some snacks. Looking at the buzzing Academy City around him, Luis wondered just how long this peace would continue. With a sigh, he munched down on the snacks that he had just bought. "*Mmm*, It tastes good!"

    ***

    After he entered the campus, Luis, under the navigation of Lily, went to the exchange center of the Oracle Academy.

    The Exchange Center is a ce where students can exchange Merit Points for resources and treasures. This is also where students can apply for privileges using their merit points. Here, Luis nned to exchange his million merit points for a material that he had seen in the Holy Dragon Knight game and was quite interested in. But he wasn''t sure if they would have it here like they did in the game. After all, this was the real world. ''I just hope they have it here.'' With that thought in his mind, Luis entered the exchange center building.

    ***

    "Wee!" As soon as Luis entered the exchange center, a loud voice greeted him. Luis raised his head to look at the old man, a head taller than himself, looking over with a businesslike smile on his face. But Luis didn''t look at his face. Instead, his eyes were locked onto that man''s long braided beard, which was swinging like a pendulum as he walked over.

    "Can I see your Student ID?" the old man asked in his heavy voice. Luis immediately tapped on his mana bracelet to show his ID.

    "So, you are a first-year student. That means it should be your first day today." The old man mumbled and observed Luis with scrutiny, thinking this student seemed familiar. But he couldn''t remember him, so he shook his head and asked, "Are you here to exchange or look around?"

    Rura''s background and situation will be revealedter in the story guys.

 Chapter 142 Magnus Gloves!

    Chapter 142 Magnus Gloves!

    "I''m here to exchange! Can I see the catalogue?" Luis asked as he observed his surroundings and the items disyed on the shelves.

    When the old man heard that Luis wanted to exchange, he nodded. Then gave him a deep look, still wondering why this student gave him a familiar feeling when it should be his first day in the academy.

    He went to the counter and tapped on it twice. The next second, a hologram screen popped up, disying an extensive list of items along with their images.

    "Take your time to read it. If you need to ask anything, just call me. My name is Zeth."

    "Okay, Mr. Zeth," Luis said while responding with a nod, and started browsing through the list.

    A few minutester, he sighed while thinking, ''As expected of the Oracle Academy, they have a diverse range of items. However, the thing I want is not on this list and there are no expensive items over the price of 100k merit points.''

    "Mr. Zeth!"

    Luis called out, with a thoughtful expression on his face.

    Secondster, Zeth came towards him and asked, "Have you decided on your exchange?"

    Luis shook his head and inquired. "Are these all the items here?"

    Zeth paused for a moment. "�� There is another catalogue. But the items in it are all the expensive ones. So, it''s very rare that someone exchanges from it."

    Luis'' eyes glinted. "Can I see it?"

    Zeth nodded and ced his palm on the counter. Then another screen popped up in front of them. Luis didn''t waste any time and started browsing through it.

    ''There it is!'' A faint smile appeared on his face when he found the item he was looking for.

    "Mr. Zeth, I want to exchange my points for the Mephinin Metal."

    "Mephinin?" Zeth arched his eyebrows and, while pointing at the price, he said, "Just so you know, it''s 750k Merit Points."

    "I know, so can I exchange already?" Luis asked with some impatience.

    ''Is he the top scorer of the entrance exam? I heard he achieved the hidden condition. No wonder he has enough points.'' Zeth thought in his mind and said with a business-like smile, "Please wait a moment. I''ll fetch it now."

    "Sure!"

    Luis responded with a smile as he continued browsing through the catalogue.

    ***

    A few minutester, Zeth came out with a wooden container in his hand. Then Luis used his 750k points to exchange for it.

    "Thanks for your purchase!"

    Zeth smiled then, thinking of something, he asked, "Student, can I ask you a question?"

    "What is it?"

    "Was your father a student in this academy?"

    "Yes, both my parents were."

    "Can you tell me your father''s name?"

    "His name is Ronald Suarez."

    "Haha, no wonder I found you familiar! You look very much like your father."

    "Do you know him, Mr. Zeth?"

    "Of course, I know him! When I just started working here, he often used toe here. Also, no need to be so formal. Just call me Uncle Zeth."

    Zeth was very enthusiastic about meeting his friend''s children. While Luis'' mind was somewhere else. He was eager to return to his dorm and start working on a project with the material he had just bought.

    So, he gave his farewell to Zeth and made a promise toe here often. Swiftly leaving the exchange center, Luis returned to his dorm. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ***

    Back in his room, Alicia was still asleep. So, without disturbing her, he went inside his pocket space.

    "Lily, start a new project. We will call it Magnus Gloves. Let''s aim toplete it before midnight."

    {Yes, Master~}

    Luis opened the lid of the wooden container in his hand. Then, looking at the transparent liquid inside, a faint smile appeared on his face.

    ''Mephinin Metal, also known as the transparent liquid metal. Finally, I can start working on it.''

    When Luis remembered about Mephinin metal from the game and thought of his Lightning Element. One concept appeared in his mind to develop and further diversify hisbat style. That was electromaism.

    ***

    The next morning. Luis and Alicia were on their way to their ss. When Alicia turned to look at Luis beside her and asked. "Until what time were you inside your Pocket Space?"

    Last night when Alicia woke up, Lily told her that Luis was busy. She waited for him, but he didn''t evene out for dinner. In the end, she just took care of Ivy, and then after practicing for a while, she fell asleep again. This morning when she woke up, she found him sleeping beside her soundly.

    Luis thought for a moment, then shaking his head, he said, "I don''t exactly remember the time, but it was quitete."

    "Oh? What were you doing, anyway? Is it another invention of yours?" Alicia asked with some curiosity.

    When she saw him nod in affirmation. She immediately said, "Show me when you are done with it."

    "Well, it''s almost finished. I just need to do some tests and fine-tune it."

    "Then I am looking forward to it," Alicia said with a smile as the two of them entered their ssroom.

    ***

    For the rest of the day, Luis was very bored sitting in his ssroom. It''s not that he wasn''t interested in studying. The thing is, for the starting few days, it would only be introductory sses about different subjects. So that students could get a better understanding and make the choice most suitable for them.

    After the sses were over, Luis along with Alicia and Diana were on their way to Professor Olivia''s office.

    Diana looked at Alicia beside her in confusion and asked, "Why are you with us, Alicia? Did you also make some mistake?"

    Alicia just gave a nce at her and said, "No reason." Then she continued walking with an indifferent expression.

    Diana was about to ask more questions when Luis slowed down his pace and said in a low voice. "She is just going to join in the fun and see me get punished."

    "Really? I didn''t know Alicia was such a naughty girl!" Diana eximed in disbelief.

    Luis nodded with a chuckle and said, "Yes~ She is very naughty."

    Alicia, who was walking a little ahead, heard everything and her lips twitched in annoyance.

 Chapter 143 Mission?!

    Chapter 143 Mission?!

    *Knock*

    Luis knocked on the door of Professor Olivia''s office and called out. "Professor Olivia?!" After waiting a few seconds, azy voice sounded from inside. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Come in, it''s not locked."

    Taken aback by the unexpected tone of her response. When the three of them entered her office. They saw Olivia resting on a recliner chair while reading a book.

    "So, you are here. Huh? Even number 2 is here." Olivia said as she looked at Alicia with some surprise.

    Alicia felt displeased, being referred to as number two. Her opinion of Professor Olivia turned unfavorable. However, she didn''t express it and quietly observed her with a neutral expression.

    She also made sure that she was close to Luis. So that he can teleport with her if Olivia tries to do something suspicious or shows even a hint of hostility.

    "Well, you are wee to join them in," Olivia said with a smile that made Alicia furrow her brows.

    "Professor, what punishment are you going to give us?" Diana asked with some worry.

    When she heard her question, Olivia''s smiling face changed to a serious one. "The punishment I am going to implore on the three of you is to go on a mission with me."

    ''Mission?'' Luis showed an interested expression, wondering what kind of mission it was.

    He didn''t need to ask, as Diana asked first.

    "What mission, Professor?"

    "For now, I can only tell that we are going to the Temar Kingdom and will leave within 2 hours. So, make your preparations fast." Olivia said while closing her book.

    "What?!"

    Diana eximed in surprise. While Luis and Alicia looked at Olivia with thoughtful expressions.

    "Professor, what about tomorrow''s ss if we go on a mission tonight?" Luis asked, as he observed Olivia''s expression with scrutiny.

    "It''s fine. I''m your ss instructor, remember? Anyway, tomorrow also will just be introductory sses. You won''t miss out on anything important. If you have difficulty choosing subjects, I will help." Olivia said with a shrug. Then added.

    "Complete your preparations and meet me at the gate of the library within 2 hours."

    The three of them nodded in understanding and immediately left Olivia''s office. Their fast response and no repulsion towards a sudden mission forced on them made Olivia very satisfied.

    "Let''s see how you guys will perform."

    Olivia mumbled as she looked at the photo frame on her work desk. It was a photo of her, along with a blue-haired little boy showing his non-existent biceps.

    As Olivia''s gaze remained fixed on that photo, the room fell into a serene silence. The beautiful professor became lost in thought, reminiscing.

    ***

    Back at the dorm inside Luis'' room. Alicia asked with a frown.

    "Luis, do you know what the professor is trying to pull off here? Why the sudden mission?"

    "It''s probably a test."

    "What for?"

    "Maybe selecting students for her direct guidance."

    "Hmm, if it''s that, then it might be possible," Alicia mumbled with a thoughtful expression.

    "Well, don''t worry too much about it. Let''s just see what kind of mission she is going to take us for. Isn''t it your first time going to another country?"

    "Yes, it is."

    "So, think of it as a small trip. If something goes wrong, then we can just escape."

    With Luis'' assurance, Alicia stopped thinking about it and focused on preparing for the mission. Though, their preparations were just their battle suits and weapons. They kept all the other things inside Luis'' pocket space in case of unexpected situations. So, there wasn''t a need for much preparation.

    As Luis saw, there were still over one and a half hours left before the meeting time. He started to tell Alicia about his encounter with Rura and his ns regarding her. Of course, there was no mention of Multiplier Potion. Everything was to have a friendly rtionship with her and get those dungeons from the Wayne family.

    When he described his conversation with Rura. At first, Alicia was a little annoyed, but with his assurance, she felt better. She was speechless when he told her how he used Thomas to lower Rura''s wariness towards them.

    "You know Luis. If I didn''t know better, I would have thought of you as some sort of maniptive viin."

    "Hey, don''t make me sound like some bad guy, okay?"

    "Or else? For those dungeons. You are going to such lengths. Is it even necessary?"

    "��" Luis went silent because he knew what Alicia said wasn''t wrong, either. If it''s just those dungeons, there are many ways to make a deal with them. There is no need to go in such a roundabout way.

    *Sigh*

    Luis sighed and said, "Okay, I admit. It''s not just those dungeons. I want her to be my subordinate."

    Alicia remained silent as she expressionlessly stared at him, waiting for him to continue.

    "She has an S-grade talent in Alchemy and in the future, she is going to be the number one Alchemist of Alnaur. The Aiverson Royal Family supports the Wayne family. If nothing unexpected happens, then Rura is bound to work for them. That is why I want to get her on our side first and support us instead of helping our enemy gain more strength."

    Luis tried to exin everything patiently without revealing too much information. Just enough to make it sound reasonable.

    After a few seconds of pause, Alicia asked. "�� Is she that good?"

    "She is."

    Luis nodded undeniably. Rura is one of the three people whom he knows about having an S-grade talent in Alchemy. The other two''s whereabouts are unknown, and they are difficult to deal with. As for Rura, he knows a lot about her and is confident to get her to ensure loyalty.

    "You don''t have any other ulterior thoughts about her?" Alicia asked with a t expression.

    "No, I don''t. I just want her to work for me." Luis said sincerely.

    A few secondster, Alicia sighed helplessly.

    "�� Okay, I trust you, Luis. If you want me to be her friend, then I will. Tell me what must I do."

 Chapter 144 The Case!

    Chapter 144 The Case!

    Near the gate of the academy''s library. Three people stood by, waiting for someone''s arrival. Just five minutes before the meeting time, a blue-haired woman appeared behind them.

    "Everyone''s already here. It''s good to be punctual." Olivia said with a smile.

    Luis and Alicia turned back silently. While Diana said with a proud expression. "Of course, I came here 15 minutes early."

    "Good." Olivia praised, then said, "Okay, now follow behind me closely." To which they nodded in understanding.

    When they entered the library. Olivia took them along a certain route, going downstairs leading to an underground floor. There they met two academy guards. To whom Olivia showed a token, which allowed them to pass through.

    As she noticed the confused and curious gazes locked on her. Olivia exined. "It''s a permission token we need to pass through the barrier ahead."

    "Professor, why are we here anyway? Aren''t we going on a mission?" Diana asked.

    "Yes, we are. This is where the transport circle is." Olivia answered.

    "Eh? Really? I thought the academy didn''t have a transport circle!" Diana had a surprised expression on her face.

    "Of course, there is," Olivia said with a chuckle. "It''s just not for the use of outsiders. Only the students and the teaching faculty can use it. Remember the student ID you got?"

    "Yes." Diana nodded while looking at her mana bracelet.

    "Hmm, without your Student ID, the transport circle won''t work for you."

    Olivia''s answer surprised Diana and Alicia. While Luis observed the barrier a little ahead of them, with interest. Since he already knew about the transport circle, it didn''t surprise him. In his mind, he was only interested in studying the workings of this unique magic circle. That he would do soter, as he had ordered Lily beforehand to scan and record the magic circle.

    Once they passed through the barrier with the help of the permission token. The three students stood inside the transport circle, waiting for Olivia to activate it. Right then, Lily scanned the transport circle sneakily and recorded the data.

    "All done. Now let''s go," Olivia said while stepping in.

    Upon its activation, the unique transport circle glowed up in brilliant white light. Then the quartet disappeared from the academy, going on a mission.

    ***

    Kingdom of Temar, also known as thend of beasts. The ruler of this country is a Beast-Kin and so is most of its poption. This country is 250 nautical miles east of the Oracle Archipgo.

    Nestled in the scenic southwestern region of the Temar Kingdom lies the peaceful Gusto Town. This vibrant town has an alluring blend of Beast-Kin cultural heritage, beckoning the merchants and tourists to experience its traditional charm.

    However, this peaceful town is also the destination of tonight''s mission for Luis and the others.

    ***

    Gusto Town. Near the Mayor''s building.

    A white light shone by, and four figures appeared through the transport circle. Right when the teleportation was over. Luis noticed that several beast-men were surrounding them. So, he subconsciously took a step near Alicia. While observing them with a calm expression.

    ''They seem worried. Are they the requesters of our mission? Hmm, let''s wait until Professor Olivia gives her confirmation.''

    Unaware of their mission''s objective. He could only try to analyze the situation while being cautious. Of course, he hid his thoughts behind his calm smile. Alicia had a neutral expression on her face, and she also carefully observed the beast-men.

    Diana just looked at the beast-men surrounding them with a curious expression. Even if she was also a Beast-Kin and a citizen of this country. She hadn''t seen all the branches of Beast-Kin race and among the beast-men around them, there were some that she was seeing for the first time.

    Olivia stood on the side with her hands folded and was taking a mental note of everyone''s reaction. Luis and Alicia''s reaction satisfied her, while Diana''s reaction was also within her expectations.

    ---

    The next moment, the worried beast-men separated to make way and a beast-man, who had a ck Panther''s head and a ck furry humanoid body, appeared in their sight.

    "Wee, Miss Olivia and the guests. I am the mayor of Gusto Town, Haiba Tewa. Please follow me inside."

    With those words, Haiba led Olivia and the others inside the mayor''s building to his office.

    As soon as the four of them took their seats, Haiba bowed slightly and spoke. "I am very grateful for you to ept our sudden mission request, Miss Olivia."

    "Don''t be. The contents of the mission were not something I could ignore." Olivia waved her hand, gesturing for Haiba to stop bowing.

    Luis, on the side, frowned. ''If it was such an urgent mission. Why did she wait an entire day before responding?''

    Haiba shook his head. "We sent the help request to the academy 3 hours ago and you are already here. I am sure everything will be fine now."

    It wasn''t just the academy. They also requested urgent help from other ces, but Olivia responded quickly. Receiving the help of an Overlord rank. They were happy as well as relieved at the same time.

    ''Huh? Did they send the request 3 hours ago? Then this wasn''t what she had in mind for us yesterday.'' Not only Luis, but Alicia also thought the same. However, they didn''t care about it anymore and their mind was more focused on the conversation between Haiba and Olivia.

    As they listened to the contents of their conversation, they couldn''t help but feel the weight of the urgency and importance of the mission. Their curiosity deepened, and they became serious, understanding that the mission wasn''t as simple as what they believed it to be.

    Olivia was expressionless, and her voice was stern. "Mr. Mayor, you can thank us after the mission isplete. For now, give us an overview of the situation. Also, my students aren''t aware of the contents of the mission. So, brief them about it, too."

    Haiba nodded with a serious expression. "Yes, Miss Olivia." Then turned his attention to the youngsters in the room and exined the situation and the content of the mission.

    "Since thest 3 days, there have been several cases of missing children in Gusto Town. The town folks had already tried looking everywhere. We searched through the entire town, but we haven''t found a single missing child yet." When Haiba said thest sentence, there was helplessness and sadness in his voice.

    The three of them frowned. "Missing children?"

    Alicia pointed. "Isn''t this a mass kidnapping case?!"

    Luis, who agreed with Alicia''s thoughts, looked at Haiba and asked, "Did these incidents happen only in Gusto Town?"

    Haiba shook his head. "This morning we got to know that many children from Chimut Town also went missing."

    At this moment, Olivia interrupted. "Not only Chimut, but also from Mh town. It''s just that the number of cases there is still lowpared to the other towns."

    While Luis and the others deepened their frown. This news startled Haiba. "What Mh town also?!" He gritted his canines in frustration. His furry paw-like hand rubbed his furry head in annoyance and anger. "Just why is this happening? Why would someone target those innocent children?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Everyone in the room could understand Haiba''s mood, but this wasn''t the time to be frustrated.

    "Mr. Mayor, please calm down," Diana said while her own expression wasn''t looking very good.

    Luis was thoughtful as he asked, "What was the age range of the kidnapped kids?"

    "3 to 11 years old," Haiba said, then he turned to Olivia and bowed. "Miss Olivia, please help us. I don''t want anything to happen to those children."

    Olivia nodded with a calm expression and said, "Don''t worry, Mr. Haiba. We will bring back those kids safe and sound."

    "Please." Haiba bowed again as tears started falling from his eyes.

    ***

    As they came out of the mayor''s building. Alicia looked at Olivia with a serious expression and asked. "Professor Olivia, can you tell us about the details regarding the mission now? I know you have the information."

    Although Alicia wasn''t absolutely sure. She can pretty much judge based on Olivia''s expressions. That''s why she sounded confident.

    Luis guessed the same as Alicia. So, he turned to Olivia, waiting for her answer.

    Alicia''s question surprised Diana. Then she thought that if Professor Olivia had some important information, they could save those kids faster. With that in mind, Diana looked at Olivia with an expectant expression and excitement.

    Olivia smiled, observing everyone''s reaction, and said, "I do have some information. I know from where to start this mission and how toplete it, too."

    At Olivia''s words, Diana''s excitement grew, but Luis and Alicia frowned. They had a bad feeling about this. Just like they expected, Olivia''s next words sounded.

    "Yes, I can solve this mission early. But why should I? If I do everything, what''s the use of you three?"

    Her harsh and indifferent words, as if not caring about those children, made Diana astonished. While Alicia''s expression became cold due to anger. At this moment, she didn''t have the slightest favorability towards this professor of hers. There was only anger and hatred. Alicia didn''t care if Olivia was an Overlord rank.

    She attacked her.

 Chapter 145 Impulsive Alicia!

    Chapter 145 Impulsive Alicia!

    *Shrwing!*

    Unsheathing her sword, Alicia thrust it at Olivia with all her might.

    *Swish*

    *Ting! *

    With her two fingers, Olivia blocked Alicia''s sword, which was just a few centimeters away from piercing her right eye. Then, with a smile, she said, "Wow! No mercy at all!"

    Alicia''s frown deepened upon seeing her attack fail, but she knew there was no turning back now. Despite beingpletely outmatched, Alicia was ready to fight relentlessly. Just when she was about to get aggressive with her attacks. Luis'' voice sounded.

    "Stop it, Alicia. You can''t do anything to her."

    Luis felt a headache, wondering why Alicia was being so impulsive out of a sudden. ''Even if she is angry. She should think before she acts.''

    *Sigh*

    ''I''ll punish Aliciater. Let''s deal with the situation first.'' N?v(el)B\\jnn

    As he thought so, Luis nced at Olivia and, with a calm expression on his face, he closed in the distance between them.

    Alicia, who was about to attack, paused after hearing his words. While keeping her attack stance, she stared at the still Olivia with caution and spoke.

    "I''m aware, Luis�� but �� she doesn''t care about saving those kids. You saw everything. Mr. Mayor trusted her so much and even begged to the point of crying. If she doesn''t want to help, why give them hope?! I can''t tolerate this kind of woman."

    "Calm down, Alicia. Professor Olivia was intentionally provoking us."

    "What��?!"

    Luis pulled the stunned Alicia behind him. Then, observing Olivia, he asked. "Professor, care to tell us why?"

    Olivia chuckled. "Well, I just wanted to see how you three will react."

    "Huh��?!" Alicia knit her brows in confusion. Then, with a serious expression, she said, "This is not funny, professor."

    "Yeah, I know. Still, your reaction surprised me, Alicia. Were you trying to make your professor blind?" Olivia showed a fearful expression. Then imitated Alicia''s previous tone. "When you said, ''I can''t tolerate this kind of woman.'' That gave me goosebumps."

    Alicia didn''t care about Olivia''s impersonation of her, and while sheathing her sword, she said with a cold expression. "It''s better for you to be blind if you can''t see the importance of a rescue mission and are still in the mood to joke around."

    Her response wiped the joking smile off Olivia''s face, and Luis smirked. ''Hahaha! That''s my wife!'' Of course, he didn''t forget to prepare for their escape using Spatial Jump. In case Olivia attacks them in anger. Even if the probability is still low given her personality. It''s still better to be prepared.

    Fortunately, the worst didn''t happen. Olivia wasn''t angry. Instead, a satisfied smile appeared on her face. "You surprise me again and again, Alicia. Even while facing an Overlord Rank, you are still so calm. You know very well that if I want to attack or even kill you here. No help cane here in this short time. Yet you aren''t afraid of attacking me."

    Alicia just snorted and didn''t speak. ''Boasting of the ignorant and the overconfidence of the strong.'' As she saw Luis standing beside her, Alicia''s confidence increased, and she didn''t feel wrong about her previous impulsive attack. ''As long as my fianc�� is around. Let''s see who can touch me.''

    At this moment, Diana, who was standing on the side ignored, spoke up. "Um, if it''s over, can we go save the kids already?"

    Before, Diana was also angry at the professor, but Alicia attacked first before she could. Now that she understood, everything was a misunderstanding. Diana reminded them because she was worried about the kids.

    When he heard Diana''s words, Luis also nodded and asked, "Professor, can you tell us what information you had about those kids?"

    Olivia shook her head and said, "What I said before wasn''t a joke. If I go and save those kids, then what''s the use of you three?"

    Alicia again became angry and gripped her sword. This time, Luis also frowned in displeasure. ''What does she mean? Does she want us three to go solve this mission? Is she trying to test us with this mission? But even if she wants to. Isn''t this too much to risk the safety of those children?''

    He was wondering if Olivia''s personality differed from the one; he remembers. At least, she wasn''t heartless to the innocent children.

    As she saw everyone''s expression. Especially looking at Diana, who had a fierce expression on her face. Olivia said, "Okay, calm down, everyone. First, listen to me. I never said anything about not saving the children."

    "What I meant to say is that, If I do the rescue, you three won''t have much to do in this mission other than apanying me."

    "Isn''t that what we are here for?" Luis said.

    "Yeah, our punishment was to apany you on your mission, professor," Diana said with a nod. Alicia also nodded while still maintaining her displeased expression. No matter what Olivia says, Alicia doesn''t have a favorable opinion of her now.

    "Yes, that is what the punishment is." Olivia nodded, agreeing with their words. "But, seeing that, we have an opportunity. Rather than just getting punished, don''t you guys want to try getting rewarded for the mission?"

    "What do you mean, Professor?" Luis asked.

    "What I mean is that if the three of you can solve this mission without my help and save those children. I will reward you."

    "No need. Professor, please just save those children." Luis stated with a firm expression and zero hesitation. Even if he was curious about the reward. He wasn''t going to ept her suggestion greedily while risking the safety of those children. Especially when he doesn''t know what their current state is. ''What if we arete and because of our greed for reward, something unfortunate happens to them?''

    So, it''s better to save them along with the professor as she has the information.

    Luis'' immediate rejection surprised Olivia. "Are you sure? The reward is a D-rank skill scroll of your choice from the academy''s collection or my movement technique. You still don''t want to try?" She tempted them.

    "No need," Alicia said with a serious expression.

    "Yes, even if I want your movement technique, Professor. I will get it after collecting those merit points. So, please save those children." Diana said.

    "Heh, you guys surprise me again and again." Olivia smiled, then thought of something. "Okay, fine. Let''s do it this way. I''ll give you guys a 3-hour time limit to save those kids. If you can seed, the rewards are yours. If you can''t, then I will save those kids and you get nothing."

    When he heard this, a contemtive expression appeared on Luis''s face. ''Does she mean to say that those kids will be safe for 3 hours at the very least?''

    Before Alicia and Diana can reject her. Luis asked. "Professor, will you act immediately if the children''s safety is at risk?"

    "Of course! Not only that, but you can also ask for my help anytime. It''s just that if you do so. Then you won''t get the rewards." Olivia said, then she added. "Also, remember, you only have 3 hours. Within that time, I can assure you that nothing will happen to those kids."

    At her assurance, Alicia and Diana, who were about to reject her, stopped. Alicia turned to look at Luis as if asking for something. When she saw him nod, her frown rxed, and a firm expression appeared on her face.

    "Okay, professor. Let usplete this mission and rescue those children." Alicia said.

    "Good, then you guys can start. I''ll just follow along and observe how you do this mission. So, don''t mind me." Olivia said, then stopped talking. Stood on the side trying to be inconspicuous.

    "Wait! Why did you guys ept it? What about the children?" Diana was stunned by Alicia''s sudden change of decision.

    "Don''t worry, Diana. We will save those children. If we find them in danger, we will immediately ask for the professor''s help." Luis said. Although he also wanted to reject her. However, from her assurance. He was sure that Olivia must have a reason for the confidence. ''Maybe she has a backhand that can ensure the safety of those children.'' If that is the case, then it doesn''t hurt trying.

    "Are you sure, Luis?" Diana asked with some worry.

    "Yeah, I am."

    "Okay, then let''s do as you say. Since the professor is heartless. We can only save those children ourselves."

    Olivia''s mouth twitched. ''I am not heartless. I am doing all this to test you three. If I didn''t have my friend ensuring the safety of those children. I wouldn''t have brought you three on this mission at all.''

    *Sigh*

    ''Everything was going perfectly. Today I was going to let them clean up my private warehouse as punishment. After all, it has be too dirty. But who knew this urgent mission woulde? Fortunately, Hena acted early. Now I can use this chance to test these kids. See if they are worth my direct guidance.''

    ''At least from their character they are, as for other things. I can confirm when they do the mission.''

 Chapter 146 Assumption!

    Chapter 146 Assumption!

    "So, how are we going to start?" Alicia asked.

    Diana showed a thoughtful look, then frowned. "I got no idea. Can''t we just ask the professor for a hint?"

    Luis was speechless at Diana''s suggestion. Then, shaking his head, he said. "Let''s first check out the area where the children disappeared the most."

    Alicia nodded, agreeing with him. As for Diana, she reluctantly nced around, looking for the professor. She was still hesitating whether to ask for a hint. But seeing Luis and Alicia leave, she followed them behind.

    It wasn''t difficult for them to get the information when they started asking around. The beast-kin were more than happy to help. A beast-woman named Mira even guided them and answered all their questions. Apparently, her child had also gone missing two days ago.

    "In this area, a lot of children disappeared. There is a yground nearby, which is why many childrene here. My daughter Ashly also�� disappeared around here. I don''t know�� what state she will be in." Mira started choking up as tears welled up in her eyes.

    "Don''t worry, Miss Mira, we will bring your daughter back to you," Luis assured with a serious expression.

    "Please, I beg you." Mira bowed, knowing very well that these humans were the help that the mayor called for, and they were the ones who could save her daughter.

    Alicia pitied Mira''s situation, but they didn''t have time tofort her. After all, the time limit is only 3 hours, from which 15 minutes have passed already.

    She turned to look at the thoughtful Luis beside her. "This area is closer to the forest. Since the children aren''t in the town, they are most probably taken through the forest route."

    Luis nodded at her words. "Yeah, but the question is, which direction? The west forest is big, spread across an area of around 320 square miles. There''s no vige or town in between until we see the ocean, right?" When he said that, he also nced at Mira as if asking for confirmation.

    "Yes, the Rat-branch people used to live there, but they moved out decades ago." Mira nodded while wiping her tears.

    "Hmm, if there''s nothing there, then will the kidnappers take that route?" Alicia frowned. "Just who are these kidnappers? Since they kidnapped so many children in such a brief span of time, then it''s most probably the work of an organization."

    "It can also be the work of some weird magic," Diana added, to which Alicia also nodded seriously.

    At that moment, Mira said, "We also let some dog-branch people from town try tracing the children''s smell, but they couldn''t find anything. It''s as if all their smell also disappeared along with them."

    "So, they made preparations for anti-smell tracking." Luis squinted his eyes. "That means they executed this mass kidnapping after proper nning."

    ***

    Olivia on the side was watching everything expressionlessly. ''Although they are slowly getting on the right track. This is not enough to find the kidnappers.''

    ''Even if you know the kidnappers used the forest''s route, can you find them? When you don''t even know which direction they went.''

    ''*Sigh* Maybe I expected too much of them. It''s already been 20 minutes and they are still in the town. At this rate, they won''t be able to catch those kidnappers at all.''

    ''I should have given them some hints after all.'' She shook her head. ''Let''s just wait for them to ask for my help and end this mission.''

    At this moment, she heard Alicia and Luis'' conversation, which made her feel unexpected.

    ***

    Alicia was looking at the map in her mana bracelet, as she said, "Luis, is it the South Forest? After all, although that forest is also big. It''s connected to Chimut town and Mh town. For the kidnappers, using the south forest is more probable than the west forest, right?"

    "Yes, they executed such a n in a hurry. They are bound to leave some clues." Luis agreed. Then said, "I am going to focus the search on the south forest along with Lily. Alicia, you observe the west forest with her."

    Alicia understood what Luis meant, so she nodded with a serious expression.

    The other people had confused expressions on their faces. Diana looked like a lost cat who didn''t know what to do, so Luis said. "Diana, you assist Alicia with the search."

    "Yes, sir!" Diana happily went near Alicia. "You can count on me, Alicia." Her expression conveyed that she was ready to follow hermand.

    "Um, yes." Alicia nodded, feeling a little overwhelmed by her enthusiasm.

    Mira didn''t understand how just the three of them were going to search the entire forest, but she didn''t ask questions so as not to disturb them. She doesn''t care about the process or the methods they used, as long as they can find her daughter safe and sound. She would always be thankful to them.

    Olivia, who was inconspicuous, frowned. ''How are they going to search both the forests? Are they stupid? The time they have is only a few hours, not days or a week. Are they trying to leave everything to luck?''

    ''Diana, I can tell is a little na?ve. But Luis and Alicia are smart. They shouldn''t have made such a stupid decision.''

    ''Did I assess them wrong from the beginning?'' She couldn''t help feeling a little disappointed.

    Then their next actions made her even more iprehensible. ''Why are going towards that caf��? Weren''t they going to search the forests?''

    Olivia couldn''t understand what they were thinking at all. ''Should I just end their mission early and go save those kids?''

    ''�� No, let''s wait and see. I have already asked Hena to do me a favor. Since they still have time. I should see how they are going to do their search while sitting inside a caf��.'' Thinking so, Olivia followed them behind inside.

    ***

    Inside the caf��, a cat girl weed Luis and the others. "Wee to Maiden''s Caf��!"

    ''Wow, a cat girl! Won''t she Nya~?'' Luis thought, but on the outside, he said with a calm expression. "A table for four. We don''t want any disturbances around us. Can you do that?"

    When the cat girl heard Luis'' words and saw Mira beside them, she immediately understood the situation.

    "Yes, pleasee. Don''t worry, we won''t let anyone disturb you."

    With a serious expression on her face, the cat girl took them to an empty table and after taking the order, she left. She also asked the customers at the tables near them to leave their seats. When the customers saw the humans, they knew these people were the ones who came to save the children of their town. So, they left their seats in understanding so as not to bother them.

    Alicia and Diana sat together, while Luis and Mira sat opposite them.

    "Um, Mr. Luis, I don''t want to offend you. But aren''t you going to look for the children? Why did wee to this caf��?" Mira asked with some hesitation and worry in the voice. ''Are they hungry? I don''t want to stop them from eating, but I am worried about Ashly.''

    "Don''t worry, Miss Mira. That is what we are here for. Just wait and see," Luis said with a calm expression, assuring her.

    Olivia, who heard his confident words, couldn''t help but be curious. ''Does this kid have something in mind?'' She was sitting far away from them but as an Overlord Rank. Her hearing was powerful, so she could hear their conversation without a problem.

    At this moment, she heard Alicia''s sentence. That made her curious.

    "Luis, just take out your drones. So, we can start." Alicia said with a neutral expression, but her voice sounded impatient.

    "Yes," Luis tapped on his mana bracelet. The next moment, dozens of button-like things appeared on the table. "I have brought 90 of them. Let''s use 25 to search in the west forest and the rest for the south forest."

    ''These button-like things are drones?'' Everyone thought at the same time. Olivia was very interested in these said drones. ''It''s my first time seeing this kind of drone. Is this the technology of the Suarez Family?'' As she thought of this, she became annoyed and clicked her tongue, ''Tsk, rich kids!''

    "Hm, okay." Alicia nodded with a serious expression. Then, tapping on her mana bracelet, she said, "Let''s do this, Lily!"

    {Yes, Sister Alicia!} Lily''s sweet voice sounded from her mana bracelet.

    "Um, hello Lily?"

    {Hello, Miss Diana!}

    "You know me?" Diana expressed surprise.

    {Yes, Sister Alicia told me about you, but let''s talk about thister. We should focus on the task at hand.}

    "Yes, you are right," Diana said with a serious expression. ''Is she Alicia''s sister? Her voice sounds so childish.'' N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Not only Diana, but even Mira and Olivia thought the same. Because Lily sounded just like a normal person, albeit a little childish. They thought she was some technical expert by Luis'' side, who was going to help them in this mission.

    They assumed Alicia was on a call. It could never have urred to them that Lily was, in fact, an AI.

 Chapter 147 Scan!

    Chapter 147 Scan!

    Olivia wondered just when Luis shared the mission details with this Lily girl. Because even she didn''t notice him contacting anyone.

    ''Although he shouldn''t have shared the information with outsiders without my permission. Given the time constraint, I guess I can''t me them and it''s only reasonable that they seek outside help. I asked them to solve the case without my help. It doesn''t mean they can''t take the help of others.''

    While she was still in her thoughts, all those button-like things that Alicia referred to as drones started floating in the air.

    Then, without making a sound, all the button drones swiftly maneuvered out of the caf�� and disappeared into the sky.

    "Lily, start the projections!"

    {As you wish, Master?}

    The next moment, both Luis'' and Alicia''s hologram functions were on. Their multiple screens were projecting the pictures sent by all the drones.

    "Wow, this is amazing!" Diana widened her eyes in amazement. Then she thought of something and asked in a voice she deemed secretive. "Alicia, why is your sister calling Luis, her master?"

    Luis rolled his eyes. ''Is this what you should be concerned about?''

    Alicia met Diana''s curious eyes and said, "She works under him." After that, she didn''t exin further.

    "I see," Diana nodded in understanding. While Mira and Olivia didn''t think about this conversation as their attention was on the forest scenes disyed on the hologram screen.

    Luis observed the screen as the drones flew quickly, searching through the forest. Fortunately, after theirst visit to the South Ind, he had made some minor improvements to the button drones. That can nowe in handy.

    The improvements were nothing much, only that the range increased from 40 km to 100 km and the speed increased from 200 miles per hour to 400 miles per hour.

    ***

    Minutes passed by.

    The four of them, with the help of Lily, searched through both the south and west forests to look for any clues.

    ''Have the kidnappers already left the forest?'' This is what Luis was most worried about. Because if it''s so, then they will have to increase the range of their search and they don''t have enough time to do that.

    ''Did I misunderstand her?'' Before he was confident that they could find some clues regarding the kidnappers in the forest because of Olivia''s challenge.

    She asked them toplete this mission without prior information and within 3 hours. That means the kidnappers should be in their 3-hour range of activity. In simple words, somewhere they could reach within that time.

    He didn''t fear the kidnappers utilizing transport circles, since each town only had one and if they still nned to use them, then they would be easily caught.

    In his opinion, people who nned such an borate kidnapping wouldn''t be that stupid.

    As for the kidnappers having some weird abilities. He had already put that thought out of his mind. Because if that were the case, Olivia wouldn''t have asked some newbies to solve this mission in the first ce.

    So, after thinking all this through. All the points connect to the fact that clues regarding the kidnappers should be there in the forest. Also, there should be some hint in this town that could lead them to those clues, but since Luis had button drones with him. There was no need to go through Olivia''s nned route.

    ''*Sigh*, In the game, I never found out that Professor Olivia was such a shrewd woman. As expected, I can''t judge the real person based on my knowledge of the game. Especially for characters other than the main cast. Since I have limited information about them.''

    Just then, Luis'' eyes squinted, and with his perception, he noticed something. His eyes widened. "Lily! Stop number 33!"

    Luis'' voice attracted everyone''s attention as they also focused on his screen, wondering if he had found something.

    {Yes, Master!} Lily stopped drone number 33 and asked for further instructions. {Now what Master?}

    After a moment of pause, Luis said. "�� Show me the 360�� view of that area."

    {On it, Master!}

    Luis took out a hologram projection device from his mana bracelet storage and ced it on the table, turning it on. He did it so he and the others could get a better view.

    A momentter, the hologram lit up and presented andscape of a forest in front of them.

    Everyone watched the projection with serious expressions, but a few secondster. Having found nothing out of the ordinary, Diana raised her doubt. "Um, Luis, did you make a mistake? There''s nothing there. Just normal trees, grass, and rocks."

    Mira''s hopeful expression also turned to one of disappointment. She also thought the same as Diana.

    Only Alicia and Olivia thought otherwise.

    "Is there someone using stealth, Luis?" Alicia asked after observing the hologram. Though she couldn''t see anything wrong with that area. She knew Luis had a powerful perception skill. So, she believed in his assessment and made a simple assumption based on it.

    Luis nodded and said, "Can be possible. For instance, I noticed a blurry figure near that tree. Though it was only for a moment."

    His words made Diana and Mira look at the hologram even more closely. Olivia, on the other hand, observed the hologram for a second, then raised her eyes to look at Luis with interest.

    Alicia knit her brows and mumbled her concern, "Then what to do? Should we go check there? If we get it wrong, then we will have wasted a lot of time by then."

    "Oh, don''t worry about it." Luis assured Alicia with a wave of his hand, then asked, "Lily, are you ready?"

    {Yes, Master. Number 50 is in ce.}

    "Okay, good! Now scan the area!"

    {The scan is starting master��} After Lily said that. A momentter, the forest''sndscape experienced some visibly obvious changes and what appeared in front of everyone''s sight was a small hidden shed in the middle of those thick trees.

    "A stealth artifact! Huh!" Alicia raised her brows, looking at the inconspicuous shed.

    "It seems to be." Luis nodded with a serious expression. Fortunately, in some of his drones, he added the functions to scan the surroundings to see through low-level stealth and low to mid-grade stealth artifacts.

    However, they still aren''t capable of scanning through the illusions, as Luis is still working on that.

    Luis observed the tree where he previously noticed that blurry figure and after the scan, he found out that there was a man who just finished peeing in that ce.

    When everyone observed that man carefully, they all had strange expressions on their faces.

    "Isn''t that a human? What''s a human doing there?" Mira''s surprised voice sounded.

    A serious expression appeared on both Luis and Alicia''s faces, as they understood the gravity of this matter. If it is what they think it is and if humans are rted to this mass kidnapping. Then this may arise a national issue between the races.

    In the worst case, potentially starts conflicts between the Temar Kingdom and the Aiverson Empire.

    ''Hmm, let''s think about the national issueter. Our priority should be to solve this case.'' Thinking so in his mind. Luis ordered.

    "Lily, turn on the stealth mode of the drones, and let us see what''s inside that shed."

    {Yes, master!}

    Lily did as she was told and maneuvered the drones sneakily behind that man who was about to enter the shed.

    She controlled it and made it stick to a button on his shirt, making it look like a normal button.

    When that man entered the shed. What was presented in everyone''s sight were four more humans seemingly resting inside the shed, with a dozen drums on the side.

    "�� Lily, scan those drums!" Luis ordered. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    {They can''t be scanned master. These drums are made up of some anti-scanning material.}

    When Luis heard this, a frown appeared on his face. Dissatisfied by her response. The others beside him also showed disappointed expressions.

    "Lily, why is there no sound? I want to hear their conversation."

    {Master, they have been no conversation going on between them. They are all silent.}

    "I see, Lily, check their information. I want to know how and when they entered the Temar Kingdom?"

    {Just a second��} Lily said, then a few secondster she answered. {Master, they have no entry records in the Temar Kingdom.}

    "Illegal entry then," Luis said with a neutral expression.

    {Yes, and there is also no identity matching them in the records of the Aiverson Empire. It is a 65% probability that someone has tampered with it.}

    "Illegal entry to a foreign country and no identity records." Alicia mumbled, then said, "Guess we found them."

    "Yeah," Luis nodded while inwardly he was wondering what kind of organization these kidnappers were associated with that could tamper with the identity records of the Aiverson Empire. ''I know a few organizations from the game who can do this. Is this case rted to any of them?''

    He stood up and said with a serious expression. "It is also possible that they are from some other country. But let''s leave that issue forter, as we can find our answers after we catch them."

 Chapter 148 Hidden Shed!

    Chapter 148 Hidden Shed!

    At his words, everyone nodded with a serious expression. Then Mira suggested. "My home is close by, so we can just get my hover car to go there." To this, everyone agreed without hesitation. After all, this option was way better than running all the way there.

    As they were about to leave the caf��, Diana spoke up. "Ah! What about the professor? Shouldn''t we call her as well?"

    Alicia just nced sideways at her and said, "We shouldn''t. She told us only to call her when we needed her help. What if she counts this as our loss? You don''t want to risk losing our rewards. Right?"

    To this, Diana nodded in understanding and said in amazement. "You are so smart, Alicia. I almost made such a stupid mistake."

    "As long as you understand." Alicia''s lips curled up slightly in satisfaction.

    Luis, on the side who heard their conversation, sighed. ''It seems the professor is already on Alicia''s bad side. Now, I guess she is going to have a hard time if she decides Alicia as a subject for her direct guidance.''

    Some distance behind them, Olivia also heard everything, and her brows twitched in annoyance. ''Did you truly understand, Diana? And Alicia, what kind of grudge do you have against me? Is it okay to treat your professor like this when I just teased you a little? Shouldn''t you show some respect towards this beautiful professor of yours?''

    Sheined, but as she saw them leaving, she also followed them behind.

    ---

    While riding in Mira''s Hover Car, Luis and the others left for the south forest towards that hidden shed. Although the kidnappers haven''t been confirmed yet, the current situation and suspicions point to those humans as the most likely suspects. In addition, there are also those drums made of anti-scan materials that concern them.

    Olivia also followed them by running all the way. Though, given her rank, this much speed was nothing for her. Rather, she had to slow down herself to their level.

    Some minutester, when they were just around 400 meters away from the location. Luis asked Mira to stop the Hover Car.

    "Are we there?" Diana asked as she looked around, not finding the shed anywhere. "Their stealth artifact is so powerful. I can''t see it at all." She said with caution.

    Alicia rolled her eyes and said, "�� We are still some distance away from the shed."

    "!?" Diana turned around abruptly. Then, seeing Alicia''s serious expression, she looked at Luis and asked. "We aren''t there yet! Then why did you ask Miss Mira to stop?! Hurry! We need to save those children!"

    With a concerned look on her face, she implored him to take action. She was both worried about the children''s safety and eager to confront the kidnappers.

    "Calm down for a second," Luis said. Then pointed in the direction they had to go. "Do you want us to just barge there with the Hover Car? We are here to rescue, remember? We can''t alert those kidnappers until we can ensure the safety of the kids."

    "Huh? Kids?" Diana was confused. "Didn''t the scan show there were only five humans inside? Where are the kids?"

    Luis rubbed his forehead, feeling a slight headache from her continuous questions. ''Just why is this na?ve girl one of the top students on the entrance exam?'' Then, thinking of her written test result, which was barely over the passing mark, he calmed down and reminded her.

    "Did you forget the drums?"

    For a moment, Diana was confused, but then she realized something, and her expression turned furious. "No way! Are you telling me they are keeping the kids inside those drums?!"

    "Possibly."

    At this answer, Diana gritted her teeth while Mira''s eyes drooped with worry.

    Luis understood their current mood. Because he was also angry. He also wanted to save those kids. However, he was sane enough to not make a rash decision.

    So, taking a deep breath, Luis turned to Mira and said, "Miss Mira, you please stay here and wait for us. Once weplete the rescue, we will call for you."

    With those words, he was about to get out of the Hover Car, but Mira grabbed his arm to stop him. "Mr. Luis, please save my Ashly. She is the only family I have left in this world. I don''t want to lose her."

    Hearing this, with a slight smile on his face, Luis sped the hand that was grabbing him and assured her. "Don''t worry, Miss Mira. We will bring your daughter back to you."

    When Mira heard his assuring words and saw the confident smile on his serious face. The worry in her heart slightly diminished. She had a feeling that she should trust this handsome young man in front of her. That he would do what he had promised to her and bring Ashly back.

    Alicia also patted Mira''s back and said, "Have some confidence in us and fix your face. You don''t want to reunite with your daughter looking like that, right?"

    "Huh?" Confused, Mira looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her eyes were red and swollen because of excessive crying. Dried up tears and her pale face because of worry and stress. From the dark circles under her eyes, it was obvious she hadn''t slept yet since her daughter was kidnapped.

    "Was I looking like this all this time?" She mumbled. In reply, Alicia just quietly nodded.

    "You are right, Miss Alicia. I shouldn''t look like this when I meet my daughter." Mira said with a forced smile on her face. No matter what she says. In her heart, she can never stop worrying until she sees her daughter with her own eyes.

    The others also understood that, so they didn''t console her further and left the Hover Car. Just after they left, Olivia appeared beside Mira. "I thank Miss Mira for assisting my students."

    Her sudden appearance surprised Mira, but she panicked only for a moment, then calmed down when she heard Olivia''s words.

    With a doubtful expression, she asked once again to confirm. "Are you their teacher?"

    "Yes, I am."

    Mira wanted to beg Olivia to do this mission along with those youngsters and save the children. But Olivia spoke first. "You don''t have to make any requests to me. Even if I let my studentsplete this mission. I am not irresponsible enough to put the children in danger. All the children will be safe, that I can guarantee you."

    When Mira heard this, her heart was a little more relieved as she asked. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Um, then, can you tell me why you suddenly appeared here?"

    As she saw the doubtful expression on Mira''s face, Olivia smiled and spoke. "Oh well, it''s nothing much. I just wanted you to do me a favor."

    ***

    Amidst the lush greenery of the dense forest, teeming with the vibrant sounds of nature, three figures could be seen darting past the tall, bare trees. With their hurried but silent steps through the woods, they made their way towards a secluded shed, hidden away from the prying eyes, using artifacts. Though, even after all that caution. They were still found.

    Luis and the girls approached the shed while hiding their presence and now were only 30 meters away from it. That is when Luis signaled for them to stop.

    He tapped on his mana bracelet and turned on the screen of number 50.

    ''They are still resting, or probably waiting for something or someone. From their looks, it doesn''t seem like they have found us.''

    ''Hmm, with this we can judge that they all are below C rank, and they have no one with powerful sensing abilities among them.''

    ''Sigh, I better get that power-sensing skill soon. It''s too troublesome when I can''t judge the strength of the enemy unless they release their mana.''

    ''No wait! Maybe I can just develop a power scanning function based on the fundamentals of the DNA scanning of the Mana Bracelet.''

    Thinking so, Luis had an idea in his mind, but that is something he could only testter. For now, they could only hope that what Luis judged was correct and their strength wasn''t above C-Rank. Otherwise, they will have to ask for the professor''s help, as Luis wasn''t going to expose his abilities for this mission unless the situation turns to the extreme.

    "Luis, let''s attack them," Diana said in a low voice while clutching her fists.

    He just gave a nk look. Then, shaking his head, he said, "First, listen to me."

    After he saw that their attention was on him, he started speaking. "Diana, see those two guys in the right corner?" At her nod. He continued. "I need you to attack them when I give the signal. Try to defeat them, but if you can''t, wait for our help. Just keep them busy and don''t let them reach the drums."

    Diana tightened his fist and said seriously. "You can count on me. I will crush them in seconds and won''t let them anywhere near the drums."

 Chapter 149 Attacking Them!!!

    Chapter 149 Attacking Them!!!

    "Good." Luis praised Diana, then turned to Alicia. "Alicia, I need you to handle the person sitting closer to the drums. Once you defeat him. You must ensure the safety of the drums while we deal with the others." After pausing for a few seconds, Luis asked, "Can you do that for me?"

    Alicia nodded with a serious expression. "Leave it to me."

    Diana put her left hand on Alicia''s shoulder and said with a confident smile. "Hehe. Don''t worry Alicia. I will kill those two kidnappers in a second, and then I with help you protect those drums too."

    Dark lines appeared on Luis'' forehead when he heard Diana''s statement. "Diana, you will not kill them."

    "Huh? Why?" Diana asked, confused.

    "What are you even confused about?" Luis rubbed his forehead. ''Just why is this girl so violent?'' With a sigh, he exined. "First, we need them alive to extract information from them regarding the kidnapped children. Second, our actions are based on our assumptions, because they are the most probable suspects. However, there is still a small 2% possibility of them not being the kidnappers."

    "So, do you want to end up killing innocent people by mistake?" Luis'' voice sounded very patient, as if he was exining to a little girl about right and wrong. However, Diana''s response was unexpected, even for him.

    "Innocent people? Didn''t their illegal entry into this country already make them criminals?"

    "�� Well, let''s just remember, we need them alive to get the information."

    "Yeah, yeah, I know. You don''t have to repeat yourself." Diana said while waving her hand, expressing that she understood.

    "��"

    ***

    In the dimly lit shed, five men waited in silence, four pairs of eyes fixed on the serious-looking figure in their midst. Suddenly, a faint buzz emanated from the man''s mana bracelet, causing a ripple of anticipation to run through the group.

    All eyes were now fixed on the device, waiting for the message that would break the stillness and set their n in motion. However, before that man could read the message, they heard a chilling voice.

    "Ice Cage!" n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The next moment, Ice thorns grew inside the shed around the drums and twisted together, forming an icy birdcage protecting the drums from harm.

    "ENEMY! WE ARE UNDER ATTACK!" The serious-looking man reacted that instant and rushed forward, trying to break the Ice Cage.

    "Ice des!"

    Sharp des of Ice surrounded the Ice Cage making anotheryer of protection for the drums.

    *BOOM! *

    A loud boom sounded, and the explosion sted off half of the shed.

    "SHIT!" That man cursed out loud, while also using his move. "Rock Fist!" A dense rockyyer covered his hands as he smashed at the Ice Cage.

    "Oh, no you don''t."

    Just when his heavy attack was about tond. Alicia''s calm voice sounded, and a powerful sword sh deflected his attack.

    The man looked at the ck-haired girl who appeared in front of him with vignce. ''What about the others?''

    Just when that thought crossed his mind, he noticed that they all were already busy confronting other attackers and one of them was in a critical condition, seemingly the sufferer of the previous explosion.

    ''Who the heck are these kids and how did they find us?!'' That man''s expression was maddening, but of course, Alicia didn''t let him think for long and had already started her fury of sword attacks.

    ---

    A few seconds ago.

    When Alicia surrounded the drums with the Ice Cage, two men were also about to start their attack, along with the serious-looking man to break the Ice Cage. While the other two looked around vigntly searching for the intruders. Right then, a button of one of those men exploded, causing half of the shed to be blown together with him. The other three already took a step back, so the explosion didn''t affect them much, only some bruises.

    "SHIT! BE ON GUARD!"

    A brown man shouted, but the next second, a Lightning Whip wrapped around his neck tightly, choking him, and then a powerful force pulled his body out of the shed.

    "Uwaack!"

    The rest of the two wanted to save him, but right then, another attacker kept them upied.

    "Jungle Karate: Gori Style Fist! And Kangaroo Style Kick!"

    They tried to defend themselves, but the Power behind Diana''s attacks pushed them a dozen meters back right outside the shed.

    The two men felt the immense pain in their hands and observed the beast kin girl in front of them with gritted teeth.

    Satisfied with their reaction, Diana smirked and taunted. "You two are my prey. Okay? So, don''t go around getting defeated by those two."

    Luis, who was some distance away from them. Looked at Diana''s direction with a speechless expression. ''Stupid, you just told them we are just the three of us!''

    As expected, the men who were facing Diana looked at her with strange expressions.

    "That means there are just the three of you?" One of them asked suspiciously.

    "Of course," Diana was proud. "But even just one of us is enough to deal with you all."

    Her words made those two men furious. They held back their pain and attacked her.

    "Let''s deal with this stupid girl first and then support the others."

    "As you say."

    "Wait, who are you calling stupid?" Diana, who heard their conversation, became furious and started attacking them.

    *Boom! *

    *Boom! *

    *Thwack! *

    *Smash! *

    ---

    *Sigh* Luis sighed in relief. ''Guess they are weaker than I thought.''

    These four were all just five stars in the Beginner Rank, and the one fighting with Alicia was one star in the Novice Rank. This made him wonder.

    ''How did they sessfully kidnap so many kids without being caught with their little strength?''

    Although he was curious. First, they need to be put down. Thinking so, Luis brought his attention back to the man who struggling to unwrap the Lightning Whip. But, as soon as he tried doing so, the electric currents made his body paralyzed.

    *Zzzt! *

    "Ah!"

    *Zzzt! *

    "Don''t bother. It''s no use struggling." Luis said with an indifferent face. "Let''s just wait for your friends to be defeated, too."

    The man stopped moving around and didn''t struggle to get free anymore. Not because he listened to Luis'' words, but because his entire body was already numb due to the paralyzing effect of the electrical currents.

    "It is good that you are so cooperative. I like such people." Luis smiled as he gave an affirmative nod towards the paralyzed man. Which made him so angry that he wanted to break free from this Lightning Whip and kill this infuriating brat. Luis, of course, ignored the looks that the paralyzed man was giving and observed Diana and Alicia''s battle.

    ''Hmm, what about the one who exploded? Is he alive?'' Thinking about his Button Drone Number 50, which he used to detonate an attack on a living target for the first time, Luis decided to examine the effects it had on a five-star Beginner Rank.

    Luis started walking as he pulled his Lightning Whip to drag the paralyzed body of that man along with him, all the way to the scorched body of his detonated partner.

    He crouched down to check his vital signs. ''Oh, he is alive, huh? Still, his breath has slowed down and he might die within a few minutes if there is no recovery.''

    "The explosion effect of the button drones is still too weak. It can''t evenpletely kill a five-star Beginner Rank." Luis shook his head in disappointment. Thinking of ways to upgrade his Button Drones.

    ---

    On the other side, a little away from the Ice cage. As the fight progressed, Alicia''s opponent began to show signs of exhaustion. He was breathing heavily, his limbs were covered in ayer of frost, and his body was full of sword wounds. Meanwhile, Alicia remained calm andposed. Her breathing was steady, as she easily blocked or deflected all the attacks from her opponent.

    She had only used simple swordsmanship and Ice Magic during the fight, as her opponent was not strong enough to warrant the use of more powerful moves. Nor did she get the chance or the need to disy the ancient sword art that she had learned.

    "*Sigh* Is that all? Aren''t you the strongest of all your partners here? Can''t you even give me a good fight?"

    Alicia tried provoking her opponent while remembering how Luis does it normally. ''Well, Luis, I tried your advice to provoke my opponent and y with their mentality. But will this even work?''

    Just as she became a little doubtful, her opponent, who was already exhausted from the fight, became furious because of her provocation and attacked her fiercely.

    "AAAHH! YOU LITTLE BITCH! DON''T BE FULL OF YOURSELF JUST BECAUSE YOU WERE BORN WITH SUPERIOR TALENTS! YOU DARE TO LOOK DOWN ON ME! I''LL KILL YOU EVEN IF I DIE HERE!"

    "�� Wow, it''s more than effective," Alicia mumbled while blocking all his attacks with a calm expression. While inwardly, she thought. ''Later, I''ll tell Luis that I''ve be an expert at provoking my enemies. Hehe, I''m sure he will be surprised.'' Imagining his surprised expression, her heart became expectant.

 Chapter 150 Interrogation!

    Chapter 150 Interrogation!

    (A.N: Some torture scenes in the chapter ahead.)

    ***

    Alicia''s opponent was powerless to fight back, and she ended up freezing all his limbs. Due to frostbite, he became unconscious. Diana''s opponents had their faces disfigured and swollen blue by the time they had surrendered. Their fightsted only a few minutes from start to finish, resulting in the defeat of those criminals suspected of mass kidnapping.

    After gathering all the five men together. Alicia froze all their limbs into ice blocks, rendering them unable to try anything. Not that they were in any condition to do so.

    "Alicia, remove the ice cage," Luis said, pointing at the ice dome-like structure behind them.

    "I''m on it, Luis." Alicia waved her hand, expressing that she understood.

    *Snap*

    Then she snapped her fingers and withdrew the magic that she had cast over the drums for protection. The ice cage and ice des crumbled and then disintegrated into thin air, leaving behind a slight chill in the surrounding temperature.

    Luis took a heavy breath and stepped towards those drums. While Diana and Alicia followed behind.

    "It''s sealed with some kind of weird material," Luis muttered as he raised his hand. He used the electric currents flickering on his fingers with expert precision to unseal the closest container drum delicately.

    Just as he removed the seal to look inside, Luis'' body trembled, and his expression became dark. There were three unconscious beast-kin children huddled tightly in the small space of the drum. There were visible bruises on their bodies.

    Luis clenched his fists and asked in a low voice.

    "Lily, scan their condition?"

    {The scan isplete! Master! The overdose of hallucination herbs has drugged the kids unconscious. The bruises on their bodies are because of the tight space inside the container and the beatings they have received. Their bodies are sweaty because of suffocation and hunger.}

    When he heard this, Luis became even more angry. But he suppressed his rage, as taking the children out of the drums was the priority. He gently took out the unconscious kids andid them on the grass nearby.

    Alicia and Diana, who saw the state of the children, became furious and red at the kidnappers with immense hatred.

    "We will deal with themter. Let''s take out the kids first." Luis said with a serious expression while suppressing the killing intent inside him.

    "Yes." Alicia and Diana nodded in understanding and got to work.

    Here, there were 8 drums in total. In all of them, they kept together 2 to 4 kids from the age group of 3 to 11. In total, 22 kidnapped kids were kept here.

    After bringing them out, Luis asked Lily to check them all and, as expected, all their conditions were the same. They were all unconscious because of the overdose of hallucination herbs.

    "These bastards are inhumane." Alicia gritted her teeth in anger.

    Diana was also angry at the kidnappers. From Luis and Alicia''s reaction, she understood that the hallucination herb mentioned by Lily had some terrible effects and the unconscious state of all the children made her worry.

    "Luis, what is this hallucination herb? Will the children be okay?"

    With a grave expression on his face, Luis sighed and said, "I can only hope that the kids will be fine after they wake up."

    "What do you mean?! Is that thing so dangerous?!" Diana''s eyes widened.

    Luis nodded with a heavy expression. "Lily, exin it to her."

    {Yes, Master!} With his order, Lily''s voice sounded, and she started exining to Diana. {Excess intake of hallucination herbs stops the neurons from working, which causes serious mental disorders or even brain hemorrhage that''s difficult to recover even after using high-grade potions. In the worst case, the victim might never wake up and will be stuck forever in the world of dreams. Even after waking up, there''s a possibility of having schizophrenia, which makes it difficult for them to return to their daily lives.}

    "��" Diana''s brain shut down for a moment, but she nodded, nheless. "I see. That''s troublesome." She turned to look at Luis and Alicia with a serious face and asked, "Then what are we going to do? Is there a way to stop those things from happening? I don''t want the children to suffer."

    "None of us want them to suffer," Alicia added. "Luis, do you have a way to help them?"

    Luis nodded. "I have something in mind. However, we must save the rest of the kids first."

    As soon as those words left Luis'' mouth, the three of them red at the five kidnappers who had woken up.

    "Alicia, you go call Miss Mira and Professor Olivia toe here. By that time, I and Diana shall do some interrogation."

    "Oh, I love this idea! My hands are itching to beat them up!" Diana clutched her fist, showing a fierce expression.

    Alicia also wanted to beat these kidnappers, but thought that Diana was suited for this job better. Anyway, she could join them after she made the call.

    "Diana, grab this one first," Luis said, pointing at the one that Diana had beaten to submission.

    "N-no, d-don''te near me."

    "Okay!" Diana walked over with a fierce expression and clutched his neck. "L-let me *cough* go." The kidnapper struggled to speak in a choked voice.

    Luis used his lightning to melt the Ice covering his hands and made sure that the kidnapper''s senses weren''t numb because of the frostbite. Then he said with an expressionless face. "Diana, I''ll ask him questions. If he refuses to answer, break his fingers one by one."

    "Leave it to me," Diana said with a wide grin that scared the kidnapper, who had already been the victim of her beatings.

    "L-let�� me�� go."

    "Okay, let''s not waste any time. Here''s the first question. Where are the rest of the kids?" Luis folded his hands, and his sharp eyes observed him with scrutiny.

    "��*gasp*��I��" Looking at the kidnapper''s state, Luis was speechless andined. "Diana, leave him enough breath to speak. You will suffocate him to death."

    "Ah! My bad. I couldn''t hold back from wanting to kill him. Just looking at them, I''m barely suppressing the urge to beat them to death." Diana apologized as she loosened her grip on his neck a little.

    When he heard her reason, Luis sighed while thinking. ''Hm, well, can''t say I don''t understand her. Because I''m feeling the same. But we need information from them. If it wasn''t for Professor Olivia, I would have already used my illusion magic.''

    With his perception, Luis had already noticed that Professor Olivia was watching their fight from around 150 meters away.

    ''*Sigh* Let''s just do so with the interrogation method for now.''

    ''But seriously, if she knows that the fight is already over. Shouldn''t shee here by now? Is she waiting for us to call her?''

    Luis shook his head, not thinking about this matter anymore, and focused on the interrogation.

    "Answer my question or lose your first finger. Make your choice fast." Luis sounded impatient, and his expression was cold.

    "I�� can''t tell you." The kidnapper said with a scared expression.

    Luis rubbed the back of his head and became annoyed. "So troublesome! Diana, break his finger!"

    "Okay!"

    "N-No, no, no, no, wait! Don''t do that! Listen to me!"

    Diana, of course, didn''t listen to his pleas. She grabbed the forefinger of his left hand and twisted it to snap it and then, using her strength, she pulled it to tear it off from his hand, causing immense pain again.

    "STTOOPPP ITTT!"

    "AH! AHHH! AAAAHHHHHH!"

    "YOU BASTARDS!"

    "AAAHHH!"

    Even after hearing his screams, Luis and Diana didn''t feel any pity for him and just observed him with neutral expressions.

    ---

    Alicia, who had just ended the call, informing Mira and Olivia about the situation, also heard this scream. ''Have they already started?''

    Because of the painful screams, a slight frown appeared on her face. But when she saw the unconscious children near her and thought of the terrible condition, those kidnappers had put them in. Alicia''s heart became cold again.

    ''I should better freeze them to death.''

    ---

    The kidnapper was still screaming and crying because of the pain, but stopped abruptly when he heard Luis'' next words.

    "Diana, he is wasting our time with all his crying. Next finger, please." Luis said with a in expression, and his tone sounded impatient.

    "Sure, another fingering right up!" Diana smiled and, in the fearful eyes of the kidnapper, she grabbed his next finger.

    "D-don''t do that!" He pleaded.

    "Then just answer my question. Your fingers will be safe." Luis said with a smile that seemed friendly and dangerous at the same time.

    When the kidnapper heard this, his eyes dimmed, and he gritted his teeth. "I can''t answer your question. Otherwise��"

    "Otherwise, what?"

    "��"

    "Do it, Diana."

    *Snap*

    "AAAHHH!"

    ��

    "Next finger."

    *Snap*

    "AAAHHH!"

    ��

    "Next."

    ��

    One by one, the kidnapper lost 7 fingers in session.

    Luis came forward to grab the kidnapper, who was on the verge of passing out because of pain. Giving him a jolt of electric current to keep him from passing out, he asked with a cold expression. "Now tell me, otherwise what?"

    The kidnapper, who came back to his senses because of the jolt, had a half-dead expression on his face. He had enough of the pain, and he knew the torture wouldn''t stop anytime soon. From the looks of Luis and Diana, he was certain that it would be even more painful.

    "*sob* Please stop this�� No more�� you want answers, right? Then here''s the reason I wasn''t telling you." The kidnapper felt his heart beating faster because he knew his fate once he uttered the next words. But he had already made his decision.

    With tears bawling down his eyes, he said, while epting his death.

    "I can''t tell you anything because there''s a spell ced on u-"

    *Boom! *

    *Ssh* N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The kidnapper couldn''tplete his sentence as a strange magic energy circted inside him and the next moment, his head burst out sttering blood in all directions, leaving behind a headless corpse.

 Chapter 151 Curse Mark!

    Chapter 151 Curse Mark!

    (A.N: This chapter also contains some violent scenes.)

    ***

    The kidnapper couldn''tplete his sentence as a strange magic energy circted inside him and the next moment, his head burst out sttering blood in all directions, leaving behind a headless corpse.

    "Eww, why did his head blow up?" Diana took a step back and looked at the blood sshed around and the headless corpse with disgust. Then she thought of something and asked, "Luis, did you use your magic to kill him?"

    "��"

    When she saw him not responding to her and just looking at the corpse with a nk expression. She became more confident that maybe her assumption was correct, so she asked in aining voice. "Weren''t you going to get the information from him? Why did you kill him when he was ready to give answers?"

    "��"

    Luis didn''t pay attention to herints. Instead, he observed the corpse with a grave expression. Although, he too felt a little nauseated when the kidnapper''s head blew up and at the appalling sight of the headless corpse on the ground. The urgency of the situation made him ignore that feeling.

    ''A spell ced on them�� and his head blew up when he tried to expose the information�� Is it connected to him?''

    Thinking so, Luis'' frown deepened, and his eyes became sharp. He turned to look at the other kidnappers, who were staring wide-eyed at the headless corpse with fearful expressions.

    "Is there a spell ced on you all that prohibits you from exposing secrets?" Luis'' cold voice sounded, and his words made the kidnappers shiver.

    "��"

    The kidnappers shut their mouths and didn''t dare say anything in the fear of having their heads blown up.

    "You don''t have to speak to answer me. Just a nod is enough."

    If it''s true, that there is a spell ced on them. Then Luis wanted to see if he could get the answers from them through the use of gestures. That way, he could save time and the unnecessary effort needed to remove the spell ced on them.

    The kidnappers who heard Luis'' words were silent, and contemtive looks appeared on their faces. On one hand, there''s the risk of triggering the spell and on another hand, there''s the torturous death awaiting them. They couldn''t make a choice, because either way, it was just a decision between choosing their way of death.

    Finally, another kidnapper, who was defeated by Diana, and was observing the dead body of his partner in a daze, made some resolution inside his mind and responded with a nod.

    *Boom*

    *Ssh*

    His head exploded, and the blood sshed on the other kidnappers who were near him. At the sight of his death, the kidnappers'' eyes widened in horror, especially the ones who had been considering whether to nod before.

    Luis knit his brows and thought, ''Even gestures can trigger the spell? Guess it''s going to be troublesome after all.''

    Diana, who had been silent on the side, eximed in surprise.

    "Eh, Luis, it wasn''t you who killed them?"

    "No."

    Luis gave her a short answer and stepped forward towards the living kidnappers.

    The one who was caught by his Lightning Whip before shouted with a scared expression. "N-no, don''te n-near us! We won''t tell you anything!"

    The strongest kidnapper among them, who was beaten by Alicia, spoke in a deep voice. "Just hand us over to thew enforcement officers. We are surrendering ourselves." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Luis shook his head and said, "Rx, you will get the punishment you deserveter. For now, you just have to answer my questions."

    The kidnapper gritted his teeth and cold sweat dripped down his forehead. "Didn''t you see what happened to those two for trying to answer your questions? It''s of no use. You won''t be able to get any answers from us."

    Luis'' steps paused, and then he gave a cold smirk. "Who knows? Maybe I can remove the spell ced on you."

    "��" The kidnappers weren''t sure what to say at this moment, and Luis wasn''t in the mood to have any further conversation. If not for the information he wanted to extract from them, Luis would have already given them a painful death. As for thew enforcement officers? He doesn''t care.

    Tapping on his mana bracelet, Luis gave orders. "Lily, leave some Button Drones with scanning functions here and send the rest to look for simr container drums with anti-scan materials in all three towns and the nearby areas."

    {Yes, Master! I''ll give all the ces a thorough inspection.} Lily responded and got to work.

    Observing the drones that flew at fast speed, disappearing from his vision. Luis thought, ''Although, the town folks of Gusto Town have imed that they had checked all the ces. With this kind of drums around, which are made of anti-scan material. I wouldn''t be surprised if they hid the kidnapped children somewhere inside the town all along.''

    ''Well, now the Lily is working on that. I should get to work too.''

    Luis brought his attention back to the rest of the kidnappers. Two alive, one on the verge of death.

    "Lily, make a body scan of these three and locate any spell marks or runes."

    {Okay, Master�� They are now being scanned... Please wait a moment�� Master, no spell mark or any other kind of symbol found on their skin.}

    "Tsk, so annoying."

    Luis clicked his tongue in dissatisfaction. Then he stepped forward and clutched the jaw of the kidnapper he caught with his Lightning Whip before.

    "Open your mouth."

    "What��?" The kidnapper was confused and showed a dumbfounded look, not understanding why he was being asked to open his mouth all of a sudden.

    As he saw the look on the kidnapper''s face, Luis, who was already angry, became even more annoyed.

    "Can''t you hear me?! I told you to open your damn mouth!"

    Luis tightened his clutch on the kidnapper''s jaw, then sent bolts of powerful electric currents.

    *Zzzt! *

    "GRAAAAAHH!"

    The kidnapper screamed in pain, and the frostbite on his limbs melted because of the lightning, making his numb senses return to normal. Just when the kidnapper had opened his mouth to scream, Luis tossed a button drone inside his mouth. Then he threw the kidnapper on the ground, letting his body twitch, squirm, and zap because of the electrocution he received.

    After all that was done, Luis brought his focus back to the hologram on his mana bracelet and asked, "Now see, Lily, if you can find anything."

    {Found it, Master! There''s a weird pattern on his pharynx.}

    Luis didn''t even know whether to be relieved that he found the pattern or if he should feel weird because of its location.

    ''Hmm, this isn''t a spell mark, nor is it some kind of rune. Rather, it''s a Curse Mark. It''s most probably the work of a Dark Magician.'' Luis concluded after observing the curse mark with scrutiny.

    {Should I project the image?} Lily asked.

    "�� I don''t want to see the inside of his throat. Just scan and show me the pattern."

    {As you wish, Master.} Lily did what he asked of her, and a momentter, she disyed the pattern in the hologram in front of Luis.

    ''Hmm, this isn''t a spell mark, nor is it some kind of rune. Rather, it''s a Curse Mark. It''s most probably the work of a Dark Magician.'' Luis concluded after observing the curse mark with scrutiny.

    Now that he had confirmed his suspicions, Luis sighed. ''*Sigh* Now, I can be sure it''s him. The most difficult antagonist that Alex can encounter in his first year of the academy.''

    "Well, whatever, let''s try to see if I can decode this Curse Mark." He muttered under his breath and started working on it.

    ***

    While Luis was busy with the Curse Mark. Alicia along with Olivia and Mira also arrived there.

    "Oh, everyone is here," Diana said while waving her hand.

    "Diana, what happened here?" Alicia asked as her eyes nced at the two headless corpses and Luis, who was working with something on a hologram.

    "Did you kill these kidnappers?" Olivia asked with a frown, knowing full well what had happened.

    "No, No, professor. We just did a little interrogation, and their heads exploded on their own. If you don''t believe me, you can ask Luis." Diana exined hastily.

    Olivia''s lips twitched because she had witnessed the interrogation that Diana regarded as ''little''.

    "Now that you mention him. What is he doing exactly?"

    Diana shook her head. "I don''t understand too well, but he is probably trying to remove the magic ced on them that exploded their heads."

    "I see." Olivia had a solemn expression. ''Now, with the addition of this weird spell ced on the kidnappers, the difficulty level of this mission has increased. Should I start helping them now?'' She wondered, but then she saw Luis, who was working on the holograms with a serious expression.

    ''�� Maybe I should wait a little more.''

    ---

    Mira, who saw the headless corpses, felt ufortable and her stomach started churning because of nausea. Alicia patted her back andforted her. "Miss Mira, if you are feeling ufortable, then maybe you should go back and rest. The others from the town will be here soon, anyway."

    "No! I am fine! Please, let me see the kids." Mira said with a serious expression, suppressing her nausea.

    Alicia nodded and pointed to the side. "Well, the kids are there. You can see them."

    Mira hastily turned around in the direction Alicia was pointing and saw the figures of kids lying on the grassy ground.

 Chapter 152 Complications!

    Chapter 152 Complications!

    When she saw the familiar faces of children, Mira gave her confirmation. "They are indeed the children from our town. I am well acquainted with them and their parents."

    She seemed happy that some of the kidnapped children had been found, but because she didn''t see the figure of her daughter Ashly among them, Mira felt a little lost in her heart.

    ''No, everything will be fine. Just how these children were rescued. My daughter will also be back to me soon.''

    Miraforted herself in her heart, then she observed the kids with a distressed expression when she saw the bruises on their bodies. "Um, Miss Alicia, why are all the kids asleep?" She couldn''t help but feel a little weird.

    Alicia pressed her lips, then sighed and opened her mouth to speak. "They are not sleeping. The kidnappers have drugged them unconscious."

    "What?!" Mira was shocked. "What kind of drug?! Will they be alright?!" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of worry.

    "Lily, exin it to her." Alicia just let Lily answer Mira''s questions. Because she knew Lily could exin the hallucination herb and its effects in much detail.

    {Okay, Sister Alicia.} Lily''s voice sounded. {Miss Mira, it''s like this��}

    ��

    After Lily''s exnation was over, Mira''s face paled, and her legs went weak. She couldn''t help but fall to her knees in despair. "N-no way�� How could this be?" She was in a state of disbelief. "Mental disorders�� schizophrenia�� brain hemorrhage�� forever unconscious."

    Tears started bawling down her eyes as she nced at the unconscious children. The fear of her daughter suffering from something so terrible made Mira''s chest tighten. Her heart wasn''t calm anymore. She was having trouble breathing when she thought of her daughter ending up in such a situation with no hope of recovery.

    Alicia and the others could understand Mira''s state of mind now. Diana sympathized with her when she saw Mira''s miserable state, but she had no clue how tofort her. In the end, she could only put her hope in her smart ssmate Alicia beside her.

    Olivia was about to say something but stopped when she saw Alicia take a step forward towards Mira. ''You have already surprised me many times, Alicia. Will you surprise me again?'' She thought with a faint smile and anticipation in her heart.

    "Miss Mira��" Alicia called out gently as she crouched beside her.

    "�� Miss Alicia�� my Ashly�� she��" Mira couldn''tplete her sentence, but her lost and despairing eyes exined everything.

    Alicia''s eyshes trembled as found the current state of Mira very familiar. ''I remember�� she is reflecting my past self�� when I lost�� Mom.''

    Even if, now that she had started to find happiness in her life, along with Luis. Alicia clearly remembers that despair and that year of longing when she hoped that her mother would return to her, and everything was nothing but a bad dream. Then, many monthster, reality struck her, and after that, she only lived for the sole purpose of taking revenge on her mother''s killers and bringing her to justice. Although Mira and her situation were different. They both shared the experience of despair of losing their most loved person. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''No, this is different!'' Alicia immediately removed her previous thoughts from her mind. ''My situation was different. I couldn''t save Mom, but Miss Mira hasn''t lost her daughter.''

    So, with a firm expression on her face, Alicia said, "Miss Mira, I''m sure we will find Ashly soon too. As for the effects of the drug. You don''t have to worry about it. Luis said he had a way. After rescuing all the children, he will cure them."

    Mira''s dull eyes suddenly brightened a little when she heard Alicia''s words. Her shivering hands grasped Alicia''s arm with hope in her eyes. "Is what you said the truth, Miss Alicia? You are not lying to me, right?"

    "No, I wouldn''t joke about this kind of thing," Alicia said with a serious expression.

    Luster returned to Mira''s face and her eyes brightened with hope, but then she thought of something and asked unsurely. "But didn''t Miss Lily say that there is no cure for it? Even the high-grade recovery potion can''t save the children." Alicia nodded with an understanding expression when she heard Mira''s worry. However, her voice was still confident and unwavering. "Yes, although no cure has been found for this condition, but if Luis said he has a way. Then there must be a way. You can rest assured that the children will be fine."

    Not only Mira, but even Olivia and Diana were dumbfounded by Alicia''s statement. ---

    Olivia knew that there was a cure for people suffering from an overdose of hallucination herbs, but the cure had only been recently discovered by a professor from the Oracle Academy. This information hasn''t been made public yet. She had known about this because the professor who developed this cure was a close friend of hers. When Hena exined the state of the kidnapped children to her. Olivia immediately consulted about it with her professor friend and got the assurance that the children would have no future problems.

    That is why she wasn''t worried about delegating this rescue mission to her students, otherwise, there is no way she would have done this.

    ''I had thought that after the rescue wasplete. I would help them cure the children.''

    ''Now you are telling me Luis has a cure for them?!'' Olivia couldn''t fathom how her student got to know about a cure whose information hadn''t been made public yet. ''Don''t tell me the Suarez Family had the cure all along?!'' Just as that thought crossed her mind, Olivia took a deep breath. ''No, there''s no way. Although the Suarez family has indulged themselves in many industrial sectors. They shouldn''t be so advanced in the field of medicine, right? Otherwise, they would have captured the market long before.''

    Several thoughts crossed Olivia''s mind, and, in the end, she couldn''te to any conclusion. So, she just shrugged and stopped thinking about it. ''Ah, whatever. There''s no need for me to think about suchplicated matters. I''m just a professor. My job is just to teach students so that they can be the future pirs of Alnaur.''

    ''Let those powerful families and the countries solve their problem themselves.''

    ''Though, I am still curious to know what kind of face she will make. When she gets to know that the discovery, she worked so hard on might have already been made by someone else long ago.'' Olivia chuckled, thinking about it. ''She will most probably cry. Hehe, let''s first wait and see if Luis truly has a cure or not.''

    ---

    Diana came near Alicia and whispered in a voice; she deemed as secretive. "Alicia, does Luis have a cure? Are you sure?"

    Alicia could understand that they were having doubts, but her tone remained unwavering. "Don''t worry. My fianc�� doesn''t promise something he isn''t sure about."

    She seemed very proud when she said that. Her expression remained confident as she nced at Luis, who was working on the hologram with full concentration.

    ''Until now, you have never disappointed me. I''m sure this time it will be the same. I trust you, Luis.''

    ---

    A few minutester, some guards, along with a medical team, arrived at the location. When Mira saw them, she immediately recognized them. "They are the patrol guards from the town and the staff from the hospital."

    The medical team hurried to check the state of the children. After getting to know some ins and outs about the situation from Mira. They all understood the seriousness of the matter and started treating the bruises of the children. After they were done. Alicia said, "Please, take the children back to the town and be prepared for when we rescue the rest of the children."

    Just as they nodded, Lily''s voice sounded from her Mana bracelet. {Sister Alicia, I found more children.}

    "!"

    "Huh��!" Alicia was surprised, then hastily asked. "Where?!"

    {Master asked me to search for container drums simr to the previous ones. I found such containers inside a warehouse in Gusto Town.}

    With her exnation, Alicia understood and marveled at Luis'' idea, but that wasn''t important right now. "Tell me the location of the warehouse. Also, how many enemies are there?"

    {There are 7 of them, but.}

    "But, what?"

    {This time there are no humans. They are Beast-Kin.}

    As soon as Lily''s voice sounded, not only Alicia, but even the beast-men were shocked. "What, how could that be?" a beast-men guard asked out loud in disbelief.

    Before others could say anything, Alicia said with a cold expression. "Lily, disy the image of that warehouse."

    {Okay.} Lily immediately turned on the hologram of Alicia''s mana bracelet and projected an image.

    The projection disyed the image of a dim warehouse where several beast-men could be seen guarding several container drums kept in the warehouse.

    {I have confirmed that those drums are made of the same anti-scan material. It''s a 95% probability that there are children kept inside them.}

    "So, not only humans. There are even beast-men among the kidnappers." Alicia uttered with a deep frown. ***

    (Guys read the author''s note of this chapter.)

 Chapter 153 Olivias Doubt!

    Chapter 153 Olivia''s Doubt!

    {Master, I have told the information to them.}

    "Hmm, good. Let them do the rescue." Luis'' attention didn''t break away from the structure of Curse Mark, as he said. "You keep searching for other areas where the children might have been kept. By then I should be finished here too."

    {I''m looking for them, Master.}

    ---

    A little distance away from Luis. The beast-men guards who saw the image disyed in the hologram were in uproar.

    "What?! You are telling me they are involved with the kidnappers?! It''s impossible!"

    "Yeah, we know them all! They aren''t such people!"

    "Yes, some of them also joined in to search for the kids. How could they be kidnappers?"

    ��

    Alicia raised her hands in annoyance and spoke with a calm expression. "Whether or not, they are connected to this mass kidnapping. I am sure we will get the answers after we go there."

    Upon hearing Alicia''s words and sensing her confident demeanour, the beast-men quickly settled down and acknowledged the validity of her reasoning. At this moment, one of the patrol guards spoke up.

    "Isn''t that Tim? Wasn''t he on a vacation?"

    "Right, he took a weeklong leave, saying that he wanted to use his annual pay-leave days together. Because of that, I got assigned to his guard post and my number of night shifts increased." The beast-men guard said with a frown on his face. However, from his dissatisfied tone, it was difficult to tell whether he was just being doubtful orining because of his increased number of night shifts. "Vacation?!" Alicia raised her brows and asked, "Is that kidnapper a patrol guard?!"

    "��"

    As soon as Alicia''s question came up, silence ensued. The guards were too ashamed to answer her.

    "I see," Alicia nodded in understanding and didn''t question any further so as not to embarrass them. She could understand what the beast-men were feeling at this moment. If they admit that he is indeed a patrol guard and he ends up being a kidnapper, isn''t that equivalent to tarnishing the dignity of all the patrol guards? ''However, does it even matter if you stay silent now? We all know the truth.'' She could already imagine the damage that would be done to the reputation of the patrol guards in Gusto Town because of this incident.

    Alicia shook her head, deciding to put that matter aside. "Diana, let''s go rescue the kids."

    "What about Luis?" Diana asked while ncing at Luis, who was still busy.

    Alicia also turned to look in her fianc��''s direction, then said. "Don''t disturb him. Let him focus on how to remove the magic ced on the kidnappers. Once he seeds, we can extract all the information from them and save all the kids. Until then, let''s rescue the ones we can."

    Diana nodded with a serious expression, and Mira also came near them. "I''ll drive you there."

    Just when the three of them were about to leave. The guards spoke up. "Please wait!"

    "Yes?" Alicia''s steps paused as she looked at them with a slight frown.

    "Um, please let us apany you all." A senior guard said with a solemn expression. Just as he said that, the other guards behind him added. "Yes, let us go with you. We also want to rescue the children."

    "If what you said is the truth, and they are rted to this kidnapping. Then it''s even more of a reason for us to go there."

    "I''ll never forgive Tim."

    Alicia didn''t agree with them immediately. Instead, she asked. "What are your ranks?"

    The guards looked at Alicia seriously and nodded at each other. Then, without hesitation, they all released their mana. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ''Hmm, three 5 Star F-rank and the rest are all from 1 to 4 stars of F-rank.''

    Alicia pondered for a moment and asked, "Do you know the strength of the beast-men inside the warehouse?"

    The guards nodded. "Not much different from us."

    "In that case, sure you cane along. However, keep it in mind. Since you areing together with us. I expect everyone to follow mymand and not to do anything rash that might risk the safety of the kids. Is that clear?" Alicia herself didn''t have much experience inmanding a rescue operation. That''s why she imitated Luis'' style and from the looks of the beast-men, it seems to have worked. ***

    {Master the medical team along with the kids have left for Gusto Town.}

    "I see." Luis just gave a short answer while rubbing his chin as he tried to make some changes in the structure. "What about Alicia and the others?"

    {Sister Alicia led the group of beast-men guards along with Diana to do the rescue operation.}

    "Hmm, well, it''s not unexpected, given the surprise they might have received earlier." Luis'' hands didn''t stop working as he kept trying variousbinations. "Lily, try differentbinations of the structures I drew by ovepping them and try to find a match."

    {Yes, Master. It will take a few minutes.}

    "Hmm, try to be fast." Luis nodded in understanding because what he had asked of her was indeed a little time-consuming task. Now Lily must do trillions ofbination trials to find a match. While also adjusting when needed. If not for the assistance of an AI, which can do all thesebinations and make calctions in a short time. Luis wouldn''t have bothered to start his study of the Curse Mark and had already asked for Professor Olivia''s help.

    Without the help of Lily, it might have taken a few days of work to crack the Curse Mark.

    While Lily started working on thebinations, trying to find a match with the Curse Mark. Luis took a moment to rest his mind and happened to look at the unconscious kidnappers. Yes, Luis made them faint when he started working on the Curse Mark. When Luis'' eyes fell on the kidnapper, who was the victim of his Button Drone detonation, he frowned and murmured. "His condition has deteriorated. He will die soon if this continues."

    Right then, he heard a voice from behind.

    "Then do you want to save him?"

    "Professor Olivia?" Luis showed a surprised expression as he turned back. "You didn''t go with them?"

    "I know they will be fine and won''t need my help." With a smile on her face, Olivia stepped towards him. "I am not disturbing you, right? I saw you stop doing whatever you were doing, so I spoke up."

    Luis shook his head with a faint smile and said, "Not at all, professor. How could you be a disturbance?"

    Olivia raised her brow and said, "It seems your opinion of me is quite different from that of Alicia''s."

    He chuckled. "That''s what you brought up on yourself, professor. You teased and joked about the things that crossed Alicia''s bottom line."

    "Did I really go that far?" Olivia asked.

    Luis nodded. "Well, I can assure you that if you want her to ept your direct guidance. It going to be very difficult now."

    "How did you guess?" Olivia asked in surprise.

    "I wasn''t sure, but now I am." He shrugged.

    Olivia pouted; she didn''t expect to get tricked by her student. "Hmph, since when did a student start rejecting my guidance? You should know that the students from the top 20 every year try to get my direct guidance. But because the selection criteria for it is too strict, not anyone can have this opportunity."

    "Eh? Really?" Luis was thoughtful for a moment, then said with a confident expression. "Well, even if that is the case. I am sure Alicia doesn''t care about all that."

    "What do you mean?" Olivia showed a puzzled expression.

    "If Alicia has any disgust or aversion towards a person, then no matter the benefits or interests. She wouldn''t care about them at all. So, What I am trying to say is, if you want her to ept your direct guidance, you will have to make her change her opinion of you."

    Olivia seemed thoughtful for a moment before she shook her head and said, "There''s no need to think that far ahead when you three haven''t evenpleted the mission yet."

    "Well, just take my words as a reminder." Luis shrugged. "Moreover, it''s only been 1 and a half hours since the mission started, Professor. We still have time left." When she felt the confidence in his words, Olivia was slightly surprised, then with a faint smile, she asked, "How are you so confident, Luis? That you willplete the rescue. In half of the mission time, you have only found two spots out of the many unknowns."

    "Can youplete the rescue within the rest of the time? You should know that the mission will be counted asplete only when all the children are rescued."

    "I know that it will be a difficult mission when we haven''t even acquired the information yet." Luis nodded with a serious expression, then said, "But since we have epted this mission, Professor. Then we are going to save those kids at all costs."

    Just as Luis stated that, Lily''s voice sounded. {Master, the match is found.}

    Luis grinned. "Heard that Professor? That''s my cue. Now the main part of this rescue mission starts!"

 Chapter 154 Lifted!

    Chapter 154 Lifted!

    Under Olivia''s curious eyes, Luis once again started working with the hologram. She didn''t disturb him, just quietly observed him while thinking back on his statement.

    ''The main part of the mission starts now, huh? Fufu~ Now I''m even more interested.''

    After Luis worked with the Cruse Mark structure for another few minutes, he closed the hologram and walked over to grab an unconscious kidnapper. Luis ced his hand on the kidnapper''s throat and tried sensing the Curse Mark.

    ''Hm, I can''t sense it normally. Do I really have to work with his mouth open? No way! Let''s try injecting my mana inside his body.''

    As soon as he thought of that, Luis started injecting the Mana inside the kidnapper''s body with acute control. A few secondster, he sensed the Curse Mark and carefully controlled his mana around it to avoid triggering it.

    ''For now, my mana has kept the Curse Mark stable. Now, I shall start removing it by breaking its structure.''

    Not wasting any time, Luis started lifting the Curse Mark. Because it was his first time trying, all his steps were meticulous, finally, after another minute or so. A wide smile appeared on Luis'' face.

    "Haha! It worked!"

    He wasn''t just happy because they could now extract the information and rescue the children. After he managed to crack the Curse Mark, it gave him the confidence to deal with simr insidious tricks by Dark Magicians in the future.

    ''In the game, this Curse Mark was one of the most troublesome tricks of that antagonist. Instead of directly fighting with the protagonist, he would always ce that Curse Mark on the weaker characters that are close to the protagonist and make them all die miserably, ying around with his mentality.''

    *Sigh*

    ''All the Dark Magicians are annoying characters to deal with. Fortunately, now I''ll have one less trick to worry about when dealing with them.''

    Luis brought his focus back to the kidnapper, whose neck he was grabbing. Then, without a change in his expression, he injected jolts of electric current waking him up.

    *Zzzt! *

    "GRAAAAAHH!"

    *Zzzt! *

    "*Pant* Ahh�� *Pant* So pain�� *Pant*" The kidnapper was in a state of confusion as he held his pained body. Then, after a moment, he murmured in confusion.

    "�� I am alive?"

    Luis was about to interrogate the kidnapper using another torture session. However, when he heard the kidnapper''s words, he stopped. Then he thought for a moment and decided to y along with his confusion. So, he said in a t voice.

    "No, you are dead. I used forbidden magic to keep your soul from leaving."

    Olivia gave Luis a strange look, wondering what he was trying to do. ''Don''t tell me you expect him to believe that nonsense?''

    The kidnapper turned to Luis with an horrified look, who was also staring back at him with a neutral expression.

    "IT YOU!!! No way! You are lying to me!"

    ''See, he didn''t believe you.'' Olivia just chuckled inwardly.

    Luis'' expression didn''t change at all, nor was he flustered about his lie being caught. With a calm expression on his face, he shrugged.

    "Believe it or not, I don''t care. All I can be sure about is that now you are dead. That spell or whatever it was won''t work anymore. So, I can get all the answers from you."

    "What? That spell won''t work?"

    *Mmph*

    The kidnapper hastily used his hand to block his mouth with a nervous expression. ''Oops, I said the wrong thing. Now my head will explode. I never expected that I would die because of my loose mouth.'' In his heart, he was crying while awaiting his death. He waited for a few seconds, but nothing happened. Which made him doubtful.

    "Were you sessful in removing the spell from me?"

    He asked while looking at Luis with a shocked expression.

    Luis shook his head. "It was more difficult than I thought. So, I just used the easy way. I summoned your soul."

    "No, I am alive. I can even feel the pain." The kidnapper shook his head in disbelief.

    "Of course, you will feel pain. After the heinous deeds youmitted, your soul is going to be tortured for eternity. This pain is too little only because I kept your soul from leaving. Once I let you go to the afterlife, you are going to through insufferable pain for all your sins."

    Luis said with a cold expression, while also releasing some magic pressure. His temperament and confidence made it hard for people to doubt him. In addition to that, his Performer Talent was also active, making the kidnapper''s thoughts waver.

    ''Am I truly dead? Is he not lying to me? If I think about it rationally, there''s no reason for him to lie to me. He can just kill me whenever he wants.''

    The kidnapper looked around and asked, "If I am dead, then where is my body?"

    Luis scoffed and said with a smirk. "Of course, the summoning of a soul needs a sacrifice, and what sacrifice is better than the body of the soul I want to summon?"

    When the kidnapper heard Luis answer and saw the dangerous smile on his face, he shuddered.

    "Anyway, that''s enough answering your questions. Now it''s your turn to answer my questions."

    Just now, in Luis'' earpiece, Lily''s voice sounded, updating him on Alicia and the others'' warehouse rescue operation. That will be over anytime. Which is why he stopped messing around with the kidnapper and got serious with the interrogation.

    The kidnapper gulped, then thought of something and nodded. "If I am already dead and the spell won''t have any effect on me. Then there''s no point in hiding. Ask away whatever you want. At least I can do one good deed in this life. Even if it is after my death."

    Luis'' face became solemn when he heard his words. ''Is this what I think it is?'' He shook his head. ''I should ask about itter. Foremost, the children.''

    Luis'' brows furrowed. Seeing this, the kidnapper continued. "I am not lying. Just when we received notification about our schedule, you attacked us. So, we had no time to read it."

    "Tell me, where are the kids?"

    "I only know of a few storage points. From there, someone wille to pick them up and transport them."

    "When will the pickup persone?"

    "�� I don''t know."

    Luis'' brows furrowed. Seeing this, the kidnapper continued. "I am not lying. Just when we received notification about our schedule, you attacked us. So, we had no time to read it."

    "I see," Luis rubbed his chin in realization, then asked, "Who received that message?"

    The kidnapper pointed at the strongest kidnapper among them. "It''s him."

    Luis stepped forward and held his frozen arm. He started using his Lightning to melt the ice while thinking if he should wake him up and force him to unlock his mana bracelet.

    When the ice melted, Luis looked at that kidnapper''s mana bracelet and a surprised expression appeared on his face. "It''s already unlocked?"

    "He was just about to read it for us when we were attacked. Then everything happened so fast, he probably didn''t have the opportunity to turn it off."

    "Well, that''s good. It saves the unnecessary trouble of waking him up and forcing him." With a serious expression on his face. Luis looked for that said message.

    "Found it!" Then he started reading it and murmured after a few seconds. "So, the scheduled pickup is at 21:30. That is around 20 minutes from now."

    ''If we capture the person who is supposed to pick up the kidnapped children. Then we can find out where the children are being taken and all the spots from where they are supposed to be picked up.''

    ''Guess we will have to set a trap.''

    Luis immediately sent a message to Alicia and Diana to finish it up there ande back here fast. ''We still have some time before the pickup person arrives.'' Thinking so, he started asking other questions.

    "Which country are you kidnappers from?"

    "Aiverson Empire."

    "City?"

    "We don''t have a fixed ce. We just moved around many ces toplete the missions assigned to us by the higher-ups."''

    At his statement, not only Luis, but even Olivia also frowned.

    Olivia knit her brows and inquired. "Mission?! Who assigned this mission to you?!"

    The sudden appearance of another person surprised the kidnapper. Until now, he hadn''t noticed there was someone else beside them. However, seeing her appearance did not surprise Luis, and he was also waiting for his answer. The kidnapper said while shaking his head.

    "I don''t know who assigns us missions. Whenever they approach us, they wear a weird mask."

    ''Weird mask? It should be an artifact.'' Luis thought. Then he asked, knowingly. "Just because they ask you to do it. You ept it. Is it because of the money?"

    "We have been doing this since the first time they forced us to do it as a child. If we try to escape from them and not follow their orders, the only option is death."

    ''As I thought, there''s a story.''

    *Sigh* He sighed, then said. "Although I want to know about your experiences. The most urgent issue right now is the kids. So, tell me, the reason behind this mass kidnapping."

    At Luis'' question, Olivia also looked over with a solemn expression.

    The kidnapper hesitated for a moment, then spoke.

    "�� It''s for their skin and body parts."154 Lifted!

    Under Olivia''s curious eyes, Luis once again started working with the hologram. She didn''t disturb him, just quietly observed him while thinking back on his statement.

    ''The main part of the mission starts now, huh? Fufu~ Now I''m even more interested.''

    After Luis worked with the Cruse Mark structure for another few minutes, he closed the hologram and walked over to grab an unconscious kidnapper. Luis ced his hand on the kidnapper''s throat and tried sensing the Curse Mark.

    ''Hm, I can''t sense it normally. Do I really have to work with his mouth open? No way! Let''s try injecting my mana inside his body.''

    As soon as he thought of that, Luis started injecting the Mana inside the kidnapper''s body with acute control. A few secondster, he sensed the Curse Mark and carefully controlled his mana around it to avoid triggering it.

    ''For now, my mana has kept the Curse Mark stable. Now, I shall start removing it by breaking its structure.''

    Not wasting any time, Luis started lifting the Curse Mark. Because it was his first time trying, all his steps were meticulous, finally, after another minute or so. A wide smile appeared on Luis'' face. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Haha! It worked!"

    He wasn''t just happy because they could now extract the information and rescue the children. After he managed to crack the Curse Mark, it gave him the confidence to deal with simr insidious tricks by Dark Magicians in the future.

    ''In the game, this Curse Mark was one of the most troublesome tricks of that antagonist. Instead of directly fighting with the protagonist, he would always ce that Curse Mark on the weaker characters that are close to the protagonist and make them all die miserably, ying around with his mentality.''

    *Sigh*

    ''All the Dark Magicians are annoying characters to deal with. Fortunately, now I''ll have one less trick to worry about when dealing with them.''

    Luis brought his focus back to the kidnapper, whose neck he was grabbing. Then, without a change in his expression, he injected jolts of electric current waking him up.

    *Zzzt! *

    "GRAAAAAHH!"

    *Zzzt! *

    "*Pant* Ahh�� *Pant* So pain�� *Pant*" The kidnapper was in a state of confusion as he held his pained body. Then, after a moment, he murmured in confusion.

    "�� I am alive?"

    Luis was about to interrogate the kidnapper using another torture session. However, when he heard the kidnapper''s words, he stopped. Then he thought for a moment and decided to y along with his confusion. So, he said in a t voice.

    "No, you are dead. I used forbidden magic to keep your soul from leaving."

    Olivia gave Luis a strange look, wondering what he was trying to do. ''Don''t tell me you expect him to believe that nonsense?''

    The kidnapper turned to Luis with an horrified look, who was also staring back at him with a neutral expression.

    "IT YOU!!! No way! You are lying to me!"

    ''See, he didn''t believe you.'' Olivia just chuckled inwardly.

    Luis'' expression didn''t change at all, nor was he flustered about his lie being caught. With a calm expression on his face, he shrugged.

    "Believe it or not, I don''t care. All I can be sure about is that now you are dead. That spell or whatever it was won''t work anymore. So, I can get all the answers from you."

    "What? That spell won''t work?"

    *Mmph*

    The kidnapper hastily used his hand to block his mouth with a nervous expression. ''Oops, I said the wrong thing. Now my head will explode. I never expected that I would die because of my loose mouth.'' In his heart, he was crying while awaiting his death. He waited for a few seconds, but nothing happened. Which made him doubtful.

    "Were you sessful in removing the spell from me?"

    He asked while looking at Luis with a shocked expression.

    Luis shook his head. "It was more difficult than I thought. So, I just used the easy way. I summoned your soul."

    "No, I am alive. I can even feel the pain." The kidnapper shook his head in disbelief.

    "Of course, you will feel pain. After the heinous deeds youmitted, your soul is going to be tortured for eternity. This pain is too little only because I kept your soul from leaving. Once I let you go to the afterlife, you are going to through insufferable pain for all your sins."

    Luis said with a cold expression, while also releasing some magic pressure. His temperament and confidence made it hard for people to doubt him. In addition to that, his Performer Talent was also active, making the kidnapper''s thoughts waver.

    ''Am I truly dead? Is he not lying to me? If I think about it rationally, there''s no reason for him to lie to me. He can just kill me whenever he wants.''

    The kidnapper looked around and asked, "If I am dead, then where is my body?"

    Luis scoffed and said with a smirk. "Of course, the summoning of a soul needs a sacrifice, and what sacrifice is better than the body of the soul I want to summon?"

    When the kidnapper heard Luis answer and saw the dangerous smile on his face, he shuddered.

    "Anyway, that''s enough answering your questions. Now it''s your turn to answer my questions."

    Just now, in Luis'' earpiece, Lily''s voice sounded, updating him on Alicia and the others'' warehouse rescue operation. That will be over anytime. Which is why he stopped messing around with the kidnapper and got serious with the interrogation.

    The kidnapper gulped, then thought of something and nodded. "If I am already dead and the spell won''t have any effect on me. Then there''s no point in hiding. Ask away whatever you want. At least I can do one good deed in this life. Even if it is after my death."

    Luis'' face became solemn when he heard his words. ''Is this what I think it is?'' He shook his head. ''I should ask about itter. Foremost, the children.''

    Luis'' brows furrowed. Seeing this, the kidnapper continued. "I am not lying. Just when we received notification about our schedule, you attacked us. So, we had no time to read it."

    "Tell me, where are the kids?"

    "I only know of a few storage points. From there, someone wille to pick them up and transport them."

    "When will the pickup persone?"

    "�� I don''t know."

    Luis'' brows furrowed. Seeing this, the kidnapper continued. "I am not lying. Just when we received notification about our schedule, you attacked us. So, we had no time to read it."

    "I see," Luis rubbed his chin in realization, then asked, "Who received that message?"

    The kidnapper pointed at the strongest kidnapper among them. "It''s him."

    Luis stepped forward and held his frozen arm. He started using his Lightning to melt the ice while thinking if he should wake him up and force him to unlock his mana bracelet.

    When the ice melted, Luis looked at that kidnapper''s mana bracelet and a surprised expression appeared on his face. "It''s already unlocked?"

    "He was just about to read it for us when we were attacked. Then everything happened so fast, he probably didn''t have the opportunity to turn it off."

    "Well, that''s good. It saves the unnecessary trouble of waking him up and forcing him." With a serious expression on his face. Luis looked for that said message.

    "Found it!" Then he started reading it and murmured after a few seconds. "So, the scheduled pickup is at 21:30. That is around 20 minutes from now."

    ''If we capture the person who is supposed to pick up the kidnapped children. Then we can find out where the children are being taken and all the spots from where they are supposed to be picked up.''

    ''Guess we will have to set a trap.''

    Luis immediately sent a message to Alicia and Diana to finish it up there ande back here fast. ''We still have some time before the pickup person arrives.'' Thinking so, he started asking other questions.

    "Which country are you kidnappers from?"

    "Aiverson Empire."

    "City?"

    "We don''t have a fixed ce. We just moved around many ces toplete the missions assigned to us by the higher-ups."''

    At his statement, not only Luis, but even Olivia also frowned.

    Olivia knit her brows and inquired. "Mission?! Who assigned this mission to you?!"

    The sudden appearance of another person surprised the kidnapper. Until now, he hadn''t noticed there was someone else beside them. However, seeing her appearance did not surprise Luis, and he was also waiting for his answer. The kidnapper said while shaking his head.

    "I don''t know who assigns us missions. Whenever they approach us, they wear a weird mask."

    ''Weird mask? It should be an artifact.'' Luis thought. Then he asked, knowingly. "Just because they ask you to do it. You ept it. Is it because of the money?"

    "We have been doing this since the first time they forced us to do it as a child. If we try to escape from them and not follow their orders, the only option is death."

    ''As I thought, there''s a story.''

    *Sigh* He sighed, then said. "Although I want to know about your experiences. The most urgent issue right now is the kids. So, tell me, the reason behind this mass kidnapping."

    At Luis'' question, Olivia also looked over with a solemn expression.

    The kidnapper hesitated for a moment, then spoke.

    "�� It''s for their skin and body parts."

 Chapter 155 Unnecessary Troubles!

    Chapter 155 Unnecessary Troubles!

    "�� It''s for their skin and body parts."

    Luis'' expression froze, but he didn''t lose hisposure. "Exin."

    The kidnapper nodded, then started speaking. "In the underworld market, whether it''s very or the uses for their body parts, children from other races are always in high demand. However, this time there was arge order ced for the skin and body parts of hundreds of Beast-Kin children."

    Luis''s fists clenched as electric currents started flickering around them, causing the kidnapper to tremble in fear. Sensing his state of mind wasn''t right, Luis knew he needed to control his emotions, so he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, regaining hisposure.

    "What do they want the�� skin and�� the body parts of so many children for?"

    The kidnapper shook his head. "We were never told about this. That''s why I can''t say for sure. However, the skin of a Beast-Kin child indeed sells for an enormous price. If I am not wrong, a 100-inch square piece of their skin sells for 50,000 rs to 1,00,000 rs in the underground market. Therefore, it''s highly possible that they must have some big purpose for cing such a big order."

    Although angry, Luis maintained a calm expression on his face and asked. "How long have you been involved in these kinds of kidnapping and trafficking?"

    "��"

    "Answer me��" Luis'' cold voice sounded.

    The kidnapper shuddered. "T-this is�� the first time I''m involved in such arge-scale mission."

    "�� You mean to say that it''s your first-time taking part in arge-scale kidnapping and until now you have been doing kidnapping on a smaller scale?"

    "��"

    Luis had no change in his expression, but in his mind, he had already decided to thoroughly investigate everything after saving the children. "How and from where they will take the kids?"

    "I don''t know."

    "Then who knows?"

    "The agent who is supposed to pick up from us." The kidnapper said with a serious expression.

    From the changes in his expression, Luis could judge that the kidnapper wasn''t lying.

    "Do you want to know anything else? I can tell you beforehand, the information we are supposed to know is quite limited."

    Luis sighed. "Yeah, I can tell. There''s no point continuing the questioning. It''s better to interrogate the agent."

    The kidnapper nodded and asked, "If that''s all, can you please let my soul go? Now it''s time for me to get punished. I suppose that''s what I deserve for my actions."

    Olivia raised her brow in surprise. ''Did he truly believe that nonsense?!''

    After the previous talk, Luis wasn''t in the mood to joke around anymore. Without saying a word, he raised his finger towards the kidnapper.

    "Thunder Bullet!"

    *Zzzt! *

    "Gahh!"

    The thunder bullet shot him unconscious.

    "Lily, I want you to monitor all the closest dockyards."

    {Master, the range of button drones from you is only enough to cover Chimut Town, the South Forest and Gusto Town. The closest dockyard is in Mh Town, which is 50 kilometers southwest of Chimut Town, and then there''s Pharmos City, which is 400 kilometers away from Chimut Town and has the biggest dockyard in the southern region. The Button Drones can''t reach there.}

    ''Now I regret not increasing the range of the Button Drones.'' Luis frowned in displeasure. "Hack their local security cams."

    {I''m on it, Master�� the publicwork is being invaded�� Invasionplete! Master, I''m now connected to the cameras in the Dockyard of Pharmos City.}

    "Show it to me."

    When Lily projected the screen onto his hologram, Luis frowned again. "Are there only 7 cameras in the entire dockyard? What about Mh Town?"

    {Yes, there are only seven cameras in the dockyard of Pharmos City and Mh Town doesn''t have any.}

    "Tsk!" Luis clicked his tongue in annoyance. "Look into all the Cargo Ships that have docked within the span of thest 15 days into any of the ports in the southern region of Temar Kingdom. Get me theplete record. Even if they entered through illegal means. I want all the information."

    {As you wish, Master!}

    After he heard her answer, Luis turned off the hologram and sighed. ''Let''s just hope I can get the answers from those agents. Otherwise, I''ll have to use that data record as myst resort.''

    He checked the time, and there were still 15 minutes before the scheduled arrival time of the agent.

    ''I should set it up.''

    He went towards the shed area and dug the ground a little after arriving at a certain area. ''Hmm, the scan said that it was somewhere around here�� Hmm�� Oh! Found it!''

    Luis dug out a cube-like thing from the ground which seemed unremarkable at first nce, but he knew this was a stealth artifact. The same one those kidnappers were using. Not wasting any time, he activated it.

    After confirming that the artifact was working without problems, Luis sat on the grassy ground. While thinking in his mind. ''Now I just have to wait.'' He started thinking back about the words of the kidnapper while trying to remember any details connected or relevant to the game story.

    Olivia was observing Luis'' actions and when she saw him sit down, she raised her brow and sat near him. Then, turning to look at him, she asked with a curious expression. "How are you so sure that they will smuggle the kids through the sea route and not via Transport Circle?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    When he heard Olivia''s question, he snapped out of his thoughts, then turning to her, he couldn''t help but give her a strange look.

    "What''s with that look?!" Olivia felt offended.

    Luis sighed and exined.

    "Professor, this was a mass kidnapping from a remote region."

    "I know, so?"

    "Then don''t you know the cost of activating a transport circle?"

    "I know."

    "If their purpose is to sell them, which is obviously for money. Then, why would they use such an expensive means of Transport Circle? It''s not the kidnapping of children from an aristocratic family. Now you understand what I mean?"

    Olivia nodded and said, "Yes, but are we sure that their goal is to sell them?"

    "��" Luis paused for a moment as he contemted Olivia''s words with a serious expression. "If that is not their goal, then I can only assume that something troublesome is going on and is connected to the politics of this country."

    As he said that, he also observed Olivia''s changes in expression. ''Why does she seem so expectant? Don''t tell me it''s true?''

    "Oh, what kind of trouble do you think it can be?" Olivia asked with a calm expression, but Luis could feel her urging behind her tone.

    ''Hmm, I see. This isn''t just a simple Mass Kidnapping and trafficking case. Even that antagonist who ced the curse on the kidnappers should be just a minor role.''

    Luis made some bold guesses in mind, but wasn''t too sure until he verified it.

    ''Oh! Professor! Just what kind of national trouble are you trying to mix your students in? Even if you exalt us, isn''t this a little too early? I''ve just entered D rank and Alivia is still an E rank. We are not at a level where we can handle such major issues. We are only qualified to be cannon fodders in front of the powerhouses such as you.'' Heined in his mind.

    "Why aren''t you answering?" Olivia asked again.

    Luis shrugged and said with an uncaring attitude. "Well, Professor, there is no point thinking about it. If it is, as you say. I believe some fresher students shouldn''t be capable of handling this mission. Since you have assigned this mission to us. It should be within our capabilities."

    Olivia looked at him with a in expression for a few seconds, then she sighed and said, "Well, you are right. I wouldn''t involve you students otherwise."

    Although she said as such, Luis could tell that she just gave up after his reminder.

    ''I just thought it was a normal rescue mission at first.''

    *Sigh*

    ''Afterpleting this rescue mission. I need to investigate everything properly.''

    ***

    On the other side, Alicia and the others have alreadypleted the rescue in the warehouse. Just as they expected, they found the kidnapped children kept inside those drums. The beast-men guards were furious as they kept beating the kidnappers.

    "Damn it! How could you bastards do it?!"

    "Tim! You bastard! Is this what you took leave for?!"

    "How could you do this to children of your own town?!"

    "Why aren''t you saying anything?!"

    Irrespective of the beatings they received after being captured, the kidnappers didn''t utter a single word.

    "Don''t waste your breath asking questions." Alicia stopped them, then she raised her hand to freeze the kidnappers'' unconscious. "Take them back for now!"

 Chapter 156 Grand Welcome!

    Chapter 156 Grand Wee!

    The thick foliage of the south forest blurred past as a medium-sized hover truck, piloted by a burly beast man from the bear branch, sped through the winding trails. The driver, his keen eyes scanning the surroundings, checked his watch and muttered under his breath, lost in thought. "We are almost there."

    Next to the beast man sat a human who had long bangs covering half of his face. He yawned as he observed the surrounding forest with disinterest. Then his ears perked up when he heard the beast man mumbling, and he sat upright.

    "Hm? Really? Then drive fast! I''m so bored that I feel like dying."

    When the beast man heard his words, his furry face contorted, and heined in annoyance.

    "You bastard! If not for you lusting after those women! I wouldn''t have to drive in such a hurry!"

    "Hey, calm down man, chill. We are on time anyway, right? So, it''s fine."

    "NO, IT''S NOT!" He snarled, but a momentter, he refocused on driving and said in a deep voice. "We are in the middle of our work! Can''t you control your lust until after weplete the deliveries?!" "Yeah, fine... I am not some horny guy." The human shrugged. "It''s just that when I saw those cow-women, I got a little excited." Thinking back about those women, he licked his lips. ''I should pass by that vige once againter.''

    "��"

    He sensed that the beast-man''s anger started rising because of his words, so he coughed and changed the topic to divert his attention and subside his anger.

    "Anyway, how many deliveries we have left?"

    "�� Two more after this one."

    "Seriously?" He sighed in exhaustion. "How far are the rest of the pickup locations from here?"

    "Don''t worry, they are all close. As these are thest batch of goods, the number shouldn''t be much. Maybe we can pick them all up together."

    "Really? That''s good news!"

    The bear-man shook his head, ncing at hiszy partner from the corner of his eyes.

    --- N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The hover truck stopped and, after rechecking the navigation screen, the bear-man said. "We have arrived at the pickup point." Then he looked around and asked, "Should I send them another message?"

    When the human heard his question, he just waved his hand in nonchnce. "Do whatever you want? Justplete this delivery fast. I want to go back and meet those cow-wo- *Ahem!* I mean, go back and rest."

    The bear-man stared at him with a deadpan expression. Which was difficult to see through because of his furry face. ***

    "Oh! They even sent a message. How kind of them!" Luis read the message on the kidnapper''s mana bracelet and chuckled. Then he responded to them with a message toe in.

    Olivia behind him asked. "Are they here?"

    "Yes, professor." Luis nodded to her. Then, using his perception, he nced 360�� around him and, after locking his eyes in a certain direction; he started walking.

    Olivia was also looking in that same direction as she asked. "Are you going to fight them alone?" Although, she didn''t say it. This time, Luis'' opponents were stronger than the previous kidnappers. However, thinking of Luis'' strength, she knew he should be able to deal with them.

    Without turning back, Luis just waved his hands.

    "I''m just giving them a warm wee."

    Olivia chuckled when she heard his words and stood aside, hiding her presence, ready to watch the show.

    ***

    Inside the hover truck. "They won''t be turning off the artifact. They are asking us to go just straight in." The bear-man said after reading the message in his mana bracelet.

    "Well, that''s understandable. Activating and deactivating that artifact, again and again, is too bothersome."

    "��"

    The bear man muttered under his breath. "Why did I get such azy and lustful fe as my partner?"

    *Sigh* He then sighed and started driving forward towards the shed hidden by the stealth artifact.

    The human yawned again and asked, "I never knew we had another partner. Why didn''t you tell me?"

    "I am talking about YOU, BASTARD!" The bear-man huffed in anger and shouted. "OH GOD, JUST KILL THIS FUCKER!"

    "Why are you cursing me when I didn''t even do anything?" The human asked with a frown. He sounded quite displeased.

    "That''s the problem! You are not doing anything other thanzing or lusting after women!" "�� That''s a lie."

    "No, it''s not!"

    Right when the two of them were so absorbed in arguing with each other, an unfamiliar voice sounded, attracting their attention. "Excuse me."

    They turned their heads in unison to look at the ck-haired, handsome boy who stood some distance ahead of them.

    ''Are the kidnappers so handsome these days?'' Just as that thought crossed their minds, the two of them looked around and felt weird because they couldn''t find any storage ces around them.

    "Boy, are you working here alone? Where are your partners and the goods?" The bear man expressed his doubts.

    Luis was slightly taken aback when they mistook him for one of them. ''Goods, huh? They don''t even treat them as living beings. Are those kids nothing butmodities to them?!'' When he thought of this, rage started building up inside him. However, on the surface, he just chuckled while shaking his head.

    "It seems there is some misunderstanding between us. I''m just here to wee you two."

    "Wee us?" They frowned in unison. For some reason, they had a bad feeling in their heart. Luis nodded and said with a wide smile, "Yes, and after I heard in on your conversation. I''m sure you will like it."

    When the two of them saw his smile, they couldn''t help but get goosebumps. Their senses were screaming danger. Unfortunately for them, it was already toote.

    Luis opened his arms wide and eximed with a smile.

    "Please enjoy the Grand Wee I''ve prepared you two!"

    The next second, facing hundreds of thunder elemental attacks aiming at them midair, surrounding them in all directions, their eyes opened wide in horror, and their bodies trembled in fear. They knew at this moment that they fucked up.

 Chapter 157 Olivia Creating Trouble!

    Chapter 157 Olivia Creating Trouble!

    After beating them until they were in no position to resist, Luis tied them with his Lightning Whip and scanned their bodies. Sure enough, he found the Curse Mark in the same location as the kidnappers. He grabbed their necks and within a few seconds lifted that Curse Mark. Since he already had experience in removing it. This time, it didn''t take him long.

    "Now, I want you to answer my questions, otherwise the beating will continue," Luis said with a dashing smile.

    *GRRR*

    The bear-man growled like an injured beast. On the other hand, the human was already terrified.

    "No, don''t. I can''t give you any answers. Don''t beat me."

    Luis said with a neutral expression. "If you are worried about the Curse Mark. I''ve already removed it."

    They were both surprised when they heard Luis'' words. The bear-man was quiet, but the human was excited. "For real?! That means we won''t die?"

    Luis stared at them with a in expression and said, "Maybe, but if you don''t answer or lie. Then there will be a torturous death awaiting you."

    The human shuddered. As he felt the pain all over his body, he knew what Luis said was the truth. If he hides things now, his end would be much worse. Scared out of his wits, he didn''t hesitate to answer all of Luis'' questions. While the interrogation was ongoing, Luis'' performance satisfied Olivia, who was watching from the side.

    ''Now that he got the information about the kids. We just have to wait and see if they can make it in time. Well, there''s still around 45 minutes left. They shouldn''t have any problem with the rescue. After this is over, I should probably treat Hena and thank her.'' ***

    By the time the interrogation was almostplete. Alica, along with Diana and Mira, arrived at the location.

    "Luis!" Diana called out while observing the bear-man with disgust.

    Luis turned to look at them and said, "You guys are here just in time!"

    "Did you get the information out of them?" Alicia asked while looking over at the agents who came to pick up the kidnapped kids.

    "Yeah, I did."

    Luis nodded, then before they could ask anything, he said. "Let''s go back to Gusto Town first. I''ll exin on the way." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    They nodded in understanding while Mira started her hover car.

    Before hopping in, Luis said. "Professor, I''ll leave them and the hover truck to you. Please drive it back to the town. As you know, there are still kids inside the truck, and they should require medical assistance."

    With those words, Luis sat inside the hover car and, not wasting any second, Mira drove her hover car at high speed towards Gusto Town.

    ---

    After they left, Olivia appeared near the unconscious kidnappers.

    "Well, I guess this much shouldn''t count as them asking for help with the mission."

    While she was throwing the kidnappers inside the truck. The bear-man, who was still conscious, felt his mana bracelet vibrate. He was receiving a call, and he had already guessed in his mind about who was calling him at this time.

    ''I must inform them, somehow.'' Thinking so, his eyes glinted and gritting his teeth, he mmed his body on the ground, smashing his mana bracelet until it was broken. ''I just hope they understood my signal.''

    "Hey, why are you injuring yourself? Wasn''t the beating enough?" his human partner asked.

    The bear-man ignored him and as he saw Oliviaing in his direction. He sneered in his mind. ''Want to save those kids? Let''s see how you do that. It will be toote until you reach there.''

    Olivia first gave a slight neck chop to his partner, making him unconscious. Then looked at him, showing a wide grin.

    The bear-man couldn''t help but have a bad feeling in his heart, and he was right when he heard Olivia''s mocking words.

    "Did they receive your signal?"

    "H-How?!" His eyes widened in horror, and he was in disbelief. ''No way! I was sure she wasn''t looking at me!''

    Olivia felt amused when she saw his expression and said with a chuckle. "No need to be surprised. There is no way your actions can be secretive in front of an S-Rank."

    "S-Rank!" The bear-man was stunned. Then, a momentter, he lowered his head with a sigh. "Guess we were meant to fail from the beginning."

    "That you were." Olivia nodded and did not bother to continue the conversation, chopping the back of his neck, she made him unconscious.

    "Hmm, should I tell Luis and the others or not?" She pondered.

    "Well, there''s no point, since they are already hurrying over. It doesn''t make much of a difference."

    Although she gave herself a reason. It was just an excuse for her since she wanted to see them asking for her help.

    Absorbed in her dark thoughts, Olivia didn''t notice that on the shirt of the human agent. Luis attached a button drone on top of his shirt''s button, and it recorded everything. Not even her S-rank senses could detect that inconspicuous button drone.

    ***

    Inside Mira''s hover car, Luis was briefing them on the situation and the information he extracted.

    "�� To summarize everything. There is onest location left among their pickup points that we haven''t rescued, and they have already delivered all the other children to Pharmos City?" Alicia asked.

    "Yes." Luis nodded and said, "They are taking the sea route and will be trafficking the kids using a medium-sized cargo ship before dawn."

    As soon as he stated that, Lily''s voice sounded. {Master, see this video.}

    Luis furrowed his brows as Lily turned on his mana bracelet and started ying a video from the drone he had left in case of emergency. ''Did something happen there? With the professor around it shouldn''t have been a problem, right?''

    He watched in confusion, and after the video ended. His lips twitched in annoyance. ''This woman! Even if she doesn''t want to help us, why is she creating trouble?!''

    *Sigh*

    ''I''ll get her back for thister. For now, we need to hurry up!''

 Chapter 158 Rosaline Port!

    Chapter 158 Rosaline Port!

    Pharmos City, Rosaline Port.

    The sky was dark, and the moon cast a faint glow over the coastline, where a multitude of ships were anchored. Even at nighttime, the container yard was a hive of activity for the workers, with its vast expanse filled with thousands of containers waiting to be loaded and unloaded. In a certain area of the container yard, a few humans were busy working together, using the specialized chassis to transport the cargo from the yard to the ship. The tall brown man with an imposing figure towered over the group of individuals before him. With a voice that boomed like thunder, he barked out amand, his eyes aze with fury. "Move fast! Youzy lot! We haven''t got all day!"

    Upon hearing his words, the workers hung their heads down, speeding up on their work while also feeling resentment towards him. One worker, who seemed quite exhausted,ined.

    "Boss, the ship will depart at dawn. Only a few containers on this corner and thest batch that hasn''t arrived are left. It won''t take long to load them, so can''t we take just a little rest? We have been working since early morning."

    He red at the worker, making him shudder with his gaze. Then said with a cold expression. "Complete the work first. Otherwise, I''ll let you rest in peace inside the ocean."

    "G-got It! Boss! I suddenly don''t feel tired at all! I''ll work! Who needs rest?!"

    Scared out of his wits, the threatened worker scurried away, not daring to stay near his boss for fear of losing his precious life.

    The tall man didn''t care about him and turned back to look at the woman standing some distance away from him, checking on the containers, working like a proper assistant would. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Muse, how long will it take for the rest of the goods to arrive here?"

    When Muse heard his question, she checked the time and the data on the list she was holding and then answered.

    "Boss, as per the scheduled time. They should have reached the first pickup location by now." The tall man nodded with a thoughtful expression, then a momentter he said with a small frown, "�� Call the agent and check if everything is going ordingly."

    "Huh?" Muse knit her brows and asked in doubt. "Did something happen, boss?"

    It annoyed him a bit when Muse didn''t carry out his order right away and instead questioned him. However, thinking that she had always worked under him as an efficient secretary. His dissatisfaction subsided, and he expressed his reason.

    "No, it''s just that I''m having a bad feeling about this delivery. Maybe it''s just my imagination, but I am worried that this shipment is going to be difficult."

    Muse''s eyes squinted for a moment and several thoughts appeared inside her mind, but her professional smile masked all her emotions. "I see, just a second, boss."

    So as not to make that man impatient anymore, she didn''t ask further questions and made the call to that said agent.

    He nodded, waiting for the call to be connected and to confirm that his worries were unfounded. However.

    *Beep! *

    "Boss, the agent rejected the call," Muse said with a neutral expression.

    "Try, again." The tall man said with a deep frown. Muse nodded and did as she was told, but this time, they couldn''t even reach the agent. "He turned off his device." She showed an angry expression and expressed her doubt. "Boss, could it be that the agent defected?" The tall man''s expression turned solemn, and then he shook his head and said in a heavy voice. "It shouldn''t be the case unless he wants to die." They all have Curse Mark nted inside them. Unless someone doesn''t care about his life, there should be no possibility of betrayal.

    "If that''s not the case then, it can only mean one thing." A serious expression appeared on his face, as he concluded. "It''s a distress signal!"

    Muse''s eyes widened, and she showed a shocked expression. "N-no way?!"

    The tall man had a heavy expression on his face, and he was deep in thought. ''Even if someone caught them. With the existence of Curse Mark, there should be no information leak.'' He tried to assure himself, but the bad feeling inside him kept increasing so much that it became difficult for him to ignore it. "No! I can''t take this lightly." Finally, he made a swift decision and ordered. "Muse! Let everyone load the rest of the containers fast! We are going to advance our departure time!"

    Muse asked, "Should I apply for permission to set sail early?" To which he shook his head in denial. "No, we don''t have time to waste! Get the crew ready! Once these containers are loaded, we will sail right away!"

    "Yes, Boss! I''ll get it done!" Muse left and the tall man was standing there alone, contemting something.

    ---

    After giving out the orders to prepare for the departure. Muse was observing them loading the containers with a neutral expression on her face, as if she were inspecting their work. However, in contrast to her professional appearance, her thoughts were different.

    ''I want to beat these bastards to death!''

    ***

    Eaves of the South Forest. A hover car was moving in fast motion towards Gusto Town. Along the way, Luis had already contacted the mayor to prepare the transport circle to Pharmos City and informed the naval officers to restrict the ships from sailing.

    "I hope those naval officers can stall some time for us." He mumbled while sighing.

    Alicia asked. "Luis, do you know the destination of that ship?" He shook his head. "Those agents didn''t know. Apparently, they only had information up to the point their part of the work was over. Which is delivering those kids to the Rosaline Port. For after that, they got no clue."

    *Sigh*

    When she heard his answer, Alicia sighed. "This is so troublesome. It''s like some kind of information chain controlled by someone limiting the sharing of information between all the criminals involved in this crime."

    ****

    Q:Guess who is Muse?

    (Answer here:)

 Chapter 159 To Pharmos City!

    Chapter 159 To Pharmos City!

    For her words, Luis nodded in agreement, while thinking, ''As she said, this kind of organizedrge-scale crime should be the work of a big criminal organization. I don''t know which one it is. Because that antagonist has worked with many of them and the criminals we have caught until now are just minions who know nothing other than the task assigned to them. They don''t even know the organization''s name that is forcing them to work. This much secrecy is just making me annoyed.''

    In the driver''s seat, Mira called out. "Mr. Luis."

    "Yes." Luis turned to her, and so did Alicia and Diana.

    She was hesitating about something, but being the center of everyone''s attention, she finally asked. "Is it possible that my daughter is inside that hover truck Miss Olivia is driving?"

    Her daughter wasn''t among the children they saved in the warehouse. This made her even more desperate and worried about her situation.

    Luis wondered if he shouldfort her, but since they didn''t have all that time right now. He gave her a straightforward answer. "No, she should not be there."

    He could see her eyes became dull when she heard his answer. However, he didn''t stop at that and exined.

    "As per those agents, this should be theirst delivery. This implies that the kids they were about to pick up are the ones who were kidnapped most recently. That should be today."

    When she heard this, Mira bit her lips and nodded. "I understand."

    Her daughter Ashly has been missing for a few days now. Which means they have already taken her to Pharmos City.

    Now that she got her answer, Mira sped up the hover car. So that she could save their time and they could save her daughter.

    ---

    Even after arriving at Gusto Town. Mira didn''t decrease her speed along the entire route and only slowed down when the mayor''s building was in sight.

    They exited as soon as the hover car stopped and saw Haiba the mayor rushing towards them with striding steps. "Mr. Mayor, is the Transport Circle ready?" Luis asked.

    "Yes, everything is ready! You can teleport anytime!" Haiba said with a serious expression.

    "That''s great!" Luis nodded at him, then turned to the girls. "Let''s hurry!" They nodded in unison.

    "Thanks for saving those kids earlier." Haiba was about to express how grateful he was, but Luis stopped him by raising his hand. "Mr. Mayor, we can talk about those thingster! We better hurry if we want to save all the other kids!"

    When Haiba heard this, he nodded with a solemn expression. "Please!"

    Right when they started moving towards the transport circle. A hover truck appeared in their sight, parking right beside Mira''s hover car.

    "Guess I made it in time," Olivia said as she came out of the truck.

    "Miss Olivia," Haiba called out her name with a polite nod.

    "Take the kids to the hospital and let someone lock those criminals for now," Olivia said while pointing her thumb backwards towards the hover-truck. "Yes," Haiba nodded and, not wasting any time, he ordered the beast-men. "You heard what Miss Olivia said. Get to it!"

    "Yes, Sir!" The beast-men responded. Just when they were about to move towards the truck, Luis added. "Give those criminals some strong anesthetics, just in case."

    They didn''t agree with him right away, but looked at the mayor. Only after they saw him nod, they agreed with Luis and left. "Luis is being cautious, huh? That''s a good idea, but I have already made them unconscious. They probably won''t wake up until tomorrow." Olivia said with a smile as she approached them.

    Luis stared at her with a t expression. He felt annoyed looking at her when he remembered what she had done earlier. However, there''s no time to me her right now. So, ignoring her, he turned to the others. "Let''s go."

    Olivia pouted, seeing him ignore her. ''Hmph, considering that the situation is urgent. I shall forgive you for now.'' ---

    Luis, Alicia, Diana, and Olivia stepped foot on the transport circle, ready to teleport. Just when Mira was also about to step in. The mayor stopped her. "You shouldn''t go with them. It will be quite dangerous."

    "N-no, Mr. Mayor, please let me go with them. My Ashly is waiting for me." Mira was teary-eyed when she said that. The mayor felt a little awkward when he saw her crying. He didn''t know what to say at that moment.

    Right when Luis was about to urge them to activate the transport circle. Olivia said while smiling towards Mira. "Let us follow us, Mr. Mayor. Don''t worry, she won''t hinder us, and I promise she will be safe." "If that''s what you say, Miss Olivia." After Olivia''s assurance, Haiba had no concerns, so he let her step in.

    After she stepped inside the transport circle, Mira bowed towards Olivia. "Thank you, Miss Olivia. I promise I won''t cause any trouble."

    Olivia waved her hand and said, "It''s fine. I''m just watching, anyway. With you, I''ll have somepany."

    When Luis and Alicia heard her words, their lips twitched in annoyance. Diana didn''t think too much about it, she just decided in her mind to keep Mira away from any harm. Since everyone had stepped in. Haiba ordered his subordinate to activate the transport circle.

    Just as the white light appeared, Haiba bowed with a sincere expression and requested.

    "Please, everyone. Save the children."

    "We will!" Diana said while clenching her fists.

    Luis and Alicia nodded with a serious expression. The next moment, all five of them disappeared and the white light dispersed, leaving the mayor and the other beast-men behind, who were still staring at the transport circle with hope and worry.

    Haiba closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ''I should go check up on the kids.''

    Then a serious expression appeared on his face. ''As for those traitors of our town, that were involved in this kidnapping. I can''t forgive them. However, I should wait for the return of Miss Olivia and the others.''

    With that in mind, Haiba made his way towards the hospital.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

 Chapter 160 Chasing Them!

    Chapter 160 Chasing Them!

    After arriving at the bustling metropolis of Pharmos City, Luis quickly retrieved the button drones from his mana bracelet. Then he tossed them in the air, and upon activation, they started floating. Lily took control of them and expertly maneuvered the drones through the Pharmos City, sending them ahead towards the port to search for the kidnappers while they were en route.

    As they drove the rented hover-car through the busy thoroughfares, Luis and the others kept a watchful eye on the live video feed from the drones. The bustling port was teeming with activity as ships and cargo were unloaded and loaded onto massive freighters. The drones weaved in and out of the crowds, searching for any signs of their enemies.

    "Luis, there are so many humans in the port. How are we going to find them?" Diana asked when she saw the vast numbers of humans in the port who seemed to be part of different ships.

    In that harbor, many cargo ships that came from the Aiverson Empire docked there. If they don''t have any clue that can narrow down the search, then it will be a daunting task.

    Before Luis could answer Diana, Alicia also asked, "Didn''t you check the dropping point where they delivered all the children?" "I did, just now. However, that area in the container yard is empty. They have probably already loaded them to the ship." Luis said.

    Alicia asked, "Which medium-sized cargo ship it is? Did those agents tell you?" Luis shook his head in denial. "They had information only until the dropping point." His words made her frown, and she started thinking.

    ''This has be troublesome. Now what should we do? How will we search for the kids? The scan of the button drones doesn''t work because of that anti-scan material of the drums.''

    *Sigh*

    ''Hm? Wait!''

    ''!"

    Alicia realized something and to confirm her conjecture, she immediately asked. "Luis! The button drones can''t scan those drums because of the anti-scan material, but it can scan everything else, right?!"

    "Yes, it should be," Luis said with a nod, and in his mind, he already had an idea of where Alicia was getting by this. ''Let''s see if our thoughts are the same.'' N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Her eyes brightened, and she expressed her idea. "In that case, if we scan the containers of all the ships that were supposed to depart before dawn. Can''t we narrow down the search to the ones that the button drone can''t scan?" "As expected of my wife, she is so smart." Luis smiled at her and nodded while exhaling a breath.

    Alicia didn''t blush at his statement but expressed her concern. "However, to do that, we need the departure schedule of all the cargo ships. Do we have enough time to get those from the Port Authority?"

    Luis patted her back. "Don''t worry, I already have that." When she heard this, Alicia inquired with a raised eyebrow. "You already thought of that, didn''t you?" He chuckled and didn''t give her an answer. Tapping on his mana bracelet, he said. "Lily, check who that area was designated for use by."

    {Master, most of the details given to the Port Authority are fake. The ship''s name is Tiger101. They granted permission to someone named Muse. It says the ship''s destination is Tuxel City.}

    "I see. Lily, send the button drones to that ship''s docking area." {Yes, Master.}

    Luis turned to look at Alicia and Diana, then said, "We will arrive there within 3 minutes. Be prepared." To his words, they nodded with serious expressions.

    ***

    As soon as they reached the port, Luis, Diana and Alicia rushed towards the Tiger101''s docking area. Their expressions were grave as they had seen the video feed of that location just a minute ago.

    Because there was no ship docked in that ce. Only a few naval officers gathered there, preparing to go to sea.

    "Stop! Where are you going?!" A beast-man naval officer stopped them. He seemed quite wary because Luis and Alicia were human.

    "Officer, who is in charge here? We are here for a rescue mission at the request of the mayor of Gusto Town." Luis replied to him with a serious expression, not caring about the suspicious look he was giving. The naval officer couldn''t judge whether Luis was telling the truth, but before he could say anything. Another officer some distance behind him, who was wearing a white hat, seemed to have heard Luis'' words as he came towards them and asked. "Are you the people sent by Mayor Haiba?"

    "Yes, we are." Luis nod.

    "Sir Kuro!" Naval officer eximed when he saw his superior.

    As Kuro confirmed the identity of Luis and the others, he waved his hand at the naval officer, signalling him to go do his work. After the naval officer left, Kuro turned to Luis and the girls.

    "Officer Kuro, can you tell us the situation? Why isn''t that ship here? From what you said, Mayor Haiba should have contacted the Port Authority, right? Did they not ept his request?" Luis asked all the questions in session. Even though he seemed calm, he was quite worried.

    Kuro took a deep breath and started speaking.

    "Mayor Haiba''s request surprised the Port Authority, but after understanding the case, we immediately acted and cancelled all the departure permissions. However, we were still a step toote. The ship named Tiger 101 that was supposed to depart at 4:30 a.m. had already set sail without permission by the time we reached here."

    "What?!" Diana reacted. Even Luis and Alicia were annoyed by the situation. Olivia, who was hiding her presence, looked at Luis with narrowed eyes. ''Did he ask the mayor to make that request? But how did he know the traffickers might sail early? Is it just his intuition, or did he somehow get that information under my nose? If I consider his performance until now, I guess it should be thetter case.'' As she thought of that, a wide, excited grin appeared on her face. ''You are going to be my disciple for sure, Luis. But before that, I want to see. Can you save the children in time? You only have 25 minutes left.''

    This rescue mission has already gone way beyond the difficulty of a task that should be assigned to a first-year student. However, they still haven''t asked for her help. "Officer, weren''t they chased?" Luis asked with a deep frown.

    Kuro said, "Because it was urgent. We sent three boats that were ready to chase them. But, with their speed, it will be difficult to catch up."

    "Shit!" Diana cursed. "Now, what should we do?!"

    Luis furrowed his brow while considering whether to ask the Professor for help. Right then, he heard Kuro''s next words, and he dismissed his thoughts.

    "This boat is almost ready to sail too, and it is a lot fasterpared to those previous ones. Why don''t youe with me? I was about to go after them just now."

    "Thanks, officer," Luis said with a sigh, thinking that the idea of asking for the Professor''s help could be on hold for now.

    "Just follow me," Kuro said and started walking towards that boat. After him, Luis and the others also got on that boat. Kura gave a strange look at Olivia because he hadn''t seen her before, so he turned to Luis and heard his confirmation. "She is with us, Officer."

    "I see."

    Then, within a few seconds, they sailed. ***

    As Luis observed the endless dark sea in front of him, a solemn expression appeared on his face. ''We still haven''t caught up to them.'' They have been sailing for around 10 minutes, but the ship is not even in their sight by now.

    ''Only 15 minutes are left before the time given by the Professor ends. Will we fail? Although it''s fine even if we don''t get the rewards, but to fail aftering this far makes me have a sour feeling.''

    Alicia walked up to Luis and asked, "Did you send the button drones ahead?" He nodded. "Yeah." "How far are they from us?"

    "It''s still quite some distance. The boats that are pursuing them won''t be able to chase them for long. Only the boat we are in can catch up. The speed at which we are going they will be in our sight within 5 minutes or so."

    "That''s good to know. What about the situation of the kids and the enemies?"

    "We can confirm. It''s them. The container can''t be scanned as we expected. There are 12 humans onboard and 4 beast-man, in total 16 enemies. As for their strength, I''m not sure. But the probability of anyone above C rank is quite low."

    "I see." Alicia nodded with a serious expression as she followed his gaze to look at the endless sea.

    Diana, who was beside them, said, "It''s good that we can catch them now. Otherwise, we will have to go to the Tuxel City and wait for them."

    "Their destination is not Tuxel City, Diana. That information was fake."

 Chapater 161 Angry Alicia!

    Chapater 161 Angry Alicia!

    "Their destination is not Tuxel City, Diana. That information was fake."

    "Eh? Luis? Why do you say that?" Diana asked in confusion because of Lily''s earlier words. Alicia shifted her gaze from the sea to Diana and exined on Luis'' behalf. "It''s simple, Diana. Tuxel City is too far from here. If they use the sea route, it should take them more than half a month if nothing goes wrong. Besides, the danger is also rtively big. There are two sea dungeons on that route and there''s a high possibility for them toe across the powerhouses from the Oracle Academy."

    Luis nodded at Alicia''s exnation and added by saying. "Yes, just as Alicia said. If our assumption is right and they indeed have no one above B rank. Then sailing along that route is too dangerous for them. So, they wouldn''t take such risks."

    After their exnation, Diana''s eyes gleamed with a newfound sense of understanding and couldn''t help but admire the two of them. ''Not only are they strong, but they are also very smart!'' She was thrilled and excited about the prospect of having two of them as her ssmates at the academy. ''They are the perfect rivals I have been looking for!'' In her heart, she had already nned to challenge Alicia to a duel as soon as they went back to the academy. ---

    Olivia on the side wasn''t much surprised by Alicia and Luis'' analysis this time. They have already given her a lot of surprises until now andpared to that, this much is nothing. Instead, she would be surprised if they couldn''t figure it out.

    Then her eyes shifted to Diana and, observing her for a few seconds, she shook her head while thinking. ''Well, intelligence is not exactly her forte. So, I shouldn''t expect much.''

    She stopped thinking about it and looked at the time as a wide gin appeared on her face. ''Guess this can count as the first failure for them. They only have 10 minutes left before the time is up. As per the boat and that ship''s speed, it will take them around 19 minutes to catch up.'' With her S-Rank senses, Olivia could easily judge the situation and make this calction without the help of an AI. Then, thinking of their performance until now, she couldn''t help contemting.

    ''It''s only a few minutes'' difference and given the increase in difficulty midway, should I give them extra time toplete this mission?'' After thinking for a few seconds, she decided. ''Okay fine, let''s give them a small leeway when they ask for my help.'' ---

    "Sir, the ship and the boats are in sight!" A beast-man naval officer said while putting down his night vision binocrs.

    "Keep observing," Kuro said in a deep voice while observing the green radar in front of him. He fixed his eyes on the onerge blinking dot. Ignoring the four smaller dots and the arrow mark. ''Fortunately, we weren''t too far behind them. Otherwise, they would have long disappeared from our range. At this rate, we can catch up soon.'' N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ---

    In another two minutes, the motorboat Luis was in had overtaken the other four boats and was now in the leading position among the chasers. As every second passed, the distance between the two sides was gradually closing. Alicia tapped on her mana bracelet and asked, "Lily, how much longer?"

    {Sis, 16 more minutes.} "I see."

    "After all that, we can finally rescue the kids," Diana said with a smile, as she had also heard Lily''s answer.

    After hearing that, Alicia also nodded while exhaling a deep breath. "Now the kids will have to hold on just a little longer."

    Diana clutched her fist and said, "Yeah, then we can rescue them after beating the shit out of those bastards."

    At this moment, Olivia spoke up. "You all have 7 minutes left to go before the time is up. Looking at the situation, it doesn''t seem like you can make it in time. So, do you want to give up?"

    Alicia frowned at hearing Olivia''s words. ''Is she still talking about that? Who cares about that challenge or that reward of hers?! As long as we can save the kids, that''s all that matters. Why does this woman take this rescue mission so lightly? Does she think it''s a game?''

    ''Didn''t she assure us that the kids would be safe for the next 3 hours?! Then what about their state now?! They are now stuffed inside those small drums after being drugged by a harmful drug that can destroy their entire lives. Is this what she calls them being safe?''

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. Some disgust arose inside Alicia''s heart towards Olivia. No matter her intentions, Olivia''s behavior until now was not something Alicia appreciated, or more like she hated it. Unlike Alicia, Diana''s thoughts weren''t soplicated and just pouted. "It looks like we lost, Professor. Now, I''m going to go with the previous n of collecting merit points to learn your footwork."

    She wasn''t disheartened about losing the reward. Because from the very start, she wanted to ask for the Professor''s help and save the kids early. Olivia just gave a faint smile to Diana and the silent Alicia. Then she turned to look at Luis, waiting for his answer. Following her gaze, Alicia and Diana also looked at him.

    Luis, who was the center of everyone''s attention, sighed and nodded. "Yes, Professor, it seems like we lost."

    Olivia grinned and was about to give them extra time, but thinking of Luis'' confident words, she couldn''t help wanting to tease him. "Oh, you gave up so easily? Who was it earlier that proimed to save the kids at any cost? What happened now?"

    Luis'' lips twitched. It''s not that he didn''t have any way to save them now. The ship is in his teleportation range. If he wants, he can teleport there now and deal with the traffickers. It''s just that he didn''t think that Olivia''s reward was worth more than his revtion. So, it''s fine, even if they don''t receive a reward now because Olivia can just go save the kids. That is why he didn''t care about Olivia''s teasing. But, of course, Olivia''s teasing made someone angry. Alicia, who was already disgusted by Olivia before, couldn''t help it anymore when she heard her teasing words towards Luis and said in an icy voice.

    "Are you in any position to tease him? For the entire time, you were just observing us as if watching a show, not at all taking this rescue mission seriously."

    She stepped towards her without fear and spoke her mind.

    "Let''s put aside the matter of you not doing the mission and that stupid challenge of yours for a mere reward." She scoffed at the mention of reward, then pointed her finger at her. "You didn''t provide any information to us, even when you knew it. It was only because of Luis'' insight and decisions that we even managed to find those criminals and are chasing them now. So, you who did nothing? How are you in any position to say anything to him?"

    She wouldn''t have cared much if Olivia had teased Diana or herself. Because she knows that without Luis, they wouldn''t have been able to reach anywhere in this case and probably would still have been looking around the forest. That is why she tried to be of Luis'' assistance in any way she could so that they could rescue the kids. Now this woman has the guts to say such things to Luis in front of her.

    Olivia knit her brows because of Alicia''s hostility towards herself. "Student Alicia Raven, although I let it gost time, you should mind yournguage before speaking to me."

    Alicia didn''t say anything, nor did she back down at all. Seeing this, Olivia''s mood turned bad, and she said with a frown. "Hmph! There''s only 5 minutes left. It''s not enough time for you all to catch up with them. So, it''s pretty much your failure in this mission."

    After she said this, she observed everyone''s expression for a moment. Then, just as she was about to tell them about the time extension. She heard Luis'' voice.

    "Wait a minute! Professor!"

    "What, do you have something to say?"

    "Yes, professor! The time still isn''t up! I would like to give a onest try."

    "What?!" Olivia was surprised but his sudden statement. However, Luis didn''t waste time exining to her and turned to Alicia.

    "Alicia, I want your help."

    Before, he didn''t care about Olivia''s teasing, but now that Alicia has spoken up for him. There''s no way he could let it end this way.

    Hence, thest four minutes of the rescue starts!

 Chapter 162 Replay Please!

    Chapter 162 Rey Please!

    "But Luis��" Alicia hesitated. ''Is he going to reveal it?''

    Luis could see the worry in Alicia''s expression, and he understood what was happening inside her mind. So, with a faint smile, he assured.

    "Just trust me on this, okay?"

    After hearing this, Alicia nodded, but was still unsure. However, now that Luis had decided, she could only believe in and support him.

    "Okay, what do I have to do?" she asked with a firm expression.

    "Make me a surfboard with your Ice. I want it to be very sturdy."

    Luis'' requirements made Alicia a bit confused. ''Is he going to surf for the rest of the way? Isn''t the boat faster?'' At first, she thought he was going to reveal his spatial magic. However, now it seems she was wrong. Luis had something else on his mind.

    As the time was short, Alicia didn''t waste any time asking questions and started using her Ice element to make a sturdy surfboard for Luis.

    It didn''t even take a few seconds for a stylish surfboard made of ice in its entirety to appear in everyone''s sight.

    "Here, this should work. Right?" Alicia handed over the Icy surfboard to Luis and he immediately took it from her while leaving a word of thanks.

    "Yeah, it''s perfect, thanks."

    After that, he turned to face Diana and said, while positioning himself above the Surfboard. "Diana, throw me over!" He used his lightning to melt some of the ice and made himself rooted on the surfboard.

    "Okay!" Without asking questions, Diana nodded and stepped forward to help.

    "Jungle Karate: Gori Style Fist!"

    Her palms and her arms swelled up, looking abnormalpared to the rest of her body. Diana lifted the Surfboard along with Luis, who was standing on top of it. Then, adjusting her grip and taking a better throwing stance, she asked, "Which direction?"

    "There!"

    Diana nodded then, using all her strength, she threw the surfboard along with Luis standing on top of it towards Tiger101.

    Luis and the others'' actions confused Kuro and the other officers. They wanted to ask what time limit they were talking about. However, none of the girls seemed to be in any mood to exin.

    "What an interesting little guy��" Olivia mumbled while observing Luis, who was quite some distance away in the sea. ''Can he truly save them in the remaining time?'' She was very interested to know.

    *Swoosh! *

    It was like a huge arrow was shot towards the sea as Luis''s silhouette disappeared in front of everyone''s eyes.

    Luis and the others'' actions confused Kuro and the other officers. They wanted to ask what time limit they were talking about. However, none of the girls seemed to be in any mood to exin.

    "What an interesting little guy��" Olivia mumbled while observing Luis, who was quite some distance away in the sea. ''Can he truly save them in the remaining time?'' She was very interested to know.

    Alicia ignored Olivia''s mumbling and looked over towards the sea with a neutral expression. Of course, her vision wasn''t good enough to see his actions from this distance. So, she can only ask for Lily''s help.

    "Lily, can you use an avable drone to send me Luis'' video feed?"

    {Yes, Sister Alicia. Just a second!}

    "Huh? We can see the battle?! That''s great!" Diana walked near Alicia to see the projection in the hologram. Just the thought of watching her self-proimed rival''s battle made her very excited.

    "Hoh, these button drones are indeed convenient. The technology of your fianc��''s family is very extraordinary, Alicia." Olivia walked over and said with a smile. She wasn''t lying when she said she was interested in it. However, she was more interested in making her current rtionship with Alicia amiable.

    From her observation, she could see that Alicia differed from how she initially thought her to be. If it continues like this and they keep having friction between them, then she might lose an excellent disciple like Alicia, who is not only talented but also a person with a character full of integrity.

    Alicia just nodded with an ''um'' and then ignored her. She wasn''t willing to talk about Luis'' technology with anyone unless he allowed it. Besides, the one talking was Olivia, so she was even more unwilling to talk with her. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    When she saw her unresponsive attitude, Olivia didn''t give up and asked. "Do they also sell these things? If they do, I am interested in purchasing it."

    She thought Alicia might say a few words about it and that way she could start the conversation with her, giving her an opportunity to ease the tension between them.

    However, she thought things too simply and was a little impatient with her approach, which made Alicia even more disgusted with her. So, she said with her tone full of irritation.

    "Professor, although I know you are an irresponsible woman. Can you stop disturbing me right now? Luis is going to start the rescue. I must watch it. I don''t have time for idle chatter with you, nor I am interested."

    Her displeased expression with her voice full of irritation, plus her indifferent words offended Olivia.

    "Hey, aren''t you a bit too much?! I can understand that you want to watch him, and I disturbed you, but how am I an irresponsible woman?! Don''t nder other people!"

    Alicia looked at her unmoved and just asked one question that shut her up.

    "If it''s so, then where''s Miss Mira?"

    "��"

    "Didn''t you promise the mayor that you will keep her by your side and assure her safety?"

    Olivia swallowed back the words she was about to say, and her eyes averted from Alicia.

    "I�� I... didn''t forget. I-It''s for her safety that I didn''t take her to the sea."

    Alicia just snorted without speaking. She had let Lily leave a button drone near Mira to monitor her safety. At least this way, she wouldn''t be harmed because of someone else''s irresponsibility.

    "Damn, Luis, he looks so cool!"

    Right then, Diana''s exmation brought her attention.

    "What happened?!"

    "Oh! Alicia! You didn''t see it?!" Diana had a wide grin on her face and her eyes were aze with excitement. "Too bad you missed out on all the action. Luis was just amazing!"

    Alicia swiftly looked at the screen and saw that Luis was already on the ship looking at the containers. Just like Diana said, the battle was over. ''I missed it?'' Thinking so, her mood turned sour, and she red at Olivia.

    If she could, she really wanted to freeze this woman into an ice block and sink her into the ocean. However, she was still rational and knew the power difference between the two. So, after a sigh. She could only go with the next best option.

    "Lily, you recorded it, right? Can you rey it to me?"

    {Of course, Sis.}

    With Lily''s words, the scene in the hologram changed.

    "Hehe, this time I''ll observe it even more carefully!" Diana said with a grin, while clenching her fists in excitement. "I am still having difficulty believing how he did it."

    Even Olivia became interested after hearing Diana''s statement. Just now, because she was engaged in a conversation with Alicia, she had also missed everything.

    So, under Olivia''s curiosity, Alicia''s anticipation and Diana''s excitement. The video started ying.

    ***

    Just after being thrown by Diana towards the sea. Luis felt a sense of weightlessness as, along with the surfboard, he started falling into the sea.

    ''Why am I being so impulsive just because of Alicia''s words?''

    ''Ahh, whatever, since she trusts me so much. Why should I give up early when I still haven''t tried my best?''

    ''What if I don''t use my spatial magic? I can still do it without needing it!''

    Just as he firmed his mind. Luis'' eyes became sharp. Then just when the surfboard was about to ssh on the sea''s surface.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    *Boom! *

    He used the thunder javelin downwards, reducing the impact of his fall and propelling the surfboard forward using the waves created by the impact of the thunder javelin on the sea.

    Needless to say, Luis wasn''t nning on surfing all the way.

    "Lily, how much time is left?"

    {Master, 3 minutes 10 seconds.}

    "I see." Luis nodded. Then looked at the ship using his perception in front of him. It was still around 2 miles away from him and slowly the distance was increasing as the ship moved forward.

    ''Although it''s unfinished. Its basic features are fine. So, it should work from this distance.''

    Thinking so, Luis inhaled and exhaled a deep breath.

    "Phew, now let''s hope it works."

    "Discharge!"

    Luis used his spell, and the lightning currents surrounded him. Then, the next moment, he used his next spell.

    "Thunder Coating!"

    *Boom! *

    *Zzzt! *

    Following a sudden burst of lightning, a dazzling golden figure steps into view. Luis'' majestic golden body was glistening underneath the night sky and on the surface of the sea. His shining body attracted the attention of the traffickers on the ship. They observed the shining light with curiosity and wariness.

    However, Luis didn''t stop there. Under the effect of the Thunder Coating. He concentrated the lightning covering his body towards the transparent gloves he was wearing.

    "Lily, keep tracking the amount of input."

    {Just a little more and it''s good to go�� That''s it!}

    At her signal, Luis stopped injecting the lightning at the Magnus Gloves.

    {It''s ready Master! Have fun!}

 Chapter 163: Taking Down!

    Among all its uses designed by Luis. The most basic application of Magus Gloves is electromaism. That is what Luis was going to use to reach the cargo ship. Infusing electricity into the Magnus Gloves, Luis can now use it as an electroma to pull himself towards the ship.

    ''Let activate it'' With that thought in mind, Luis raised his hands towards the cargo ship and used the electromaic force at full power.

    "Woah!"

    *Swoosh*

    The next moment, he felt his arms being pulled by an extraordinary force, and he knew it worked. Fortunately, his powerful physique of a D-Rank prevented him from being torn by this force.

    As he stood on the icy surfboard and strained against the wind, Luis surfed through the sea, propelled by the electromaic field generated by the gloves. He manoeuvred his trajectory, adjusting the prity of the gloves'' maism with precise hand gestures, guiding himself closer to the ship''s side.

    It didn''t take long for him to close the gap between them. As he neared the vessel, the gloves'' electromaism surged, intensifying the maic pull. With a jolt, Luisnded on the ship''s hull, then deactivated the gloves, dispersing the maic field around it.

    "Lily! Time?!"

    {2 minutes 45 seconds left.}

    "I need to hurry!"

    The golden Luis immediately took his feet off the surfboard and the lightning currents around him intensified. "Navigate the fastest attack route for me, Lily!"

    {As you wish Master! Enemy at four o''clock!}

    *Boom*

    Without wasting a breath, he shot a Thunder Bullet in that direction, defeating the trafficker. Then, with his fast speed, he started moving around the ship, defeating the enemies one by one. They were also looking for him, so his attack speed also became faster.

    "So, they have found me," Luis said while paralyzing the enemy in front of him using Thunder snake.

    {Not surprising given how dazzling Master is right now.} Lily''s affirmative voice sounded in his earpiece.

    *Sigh*

    Luis nodded and sighed while defeating the trafficker in front of him before he could activate his magic. Then muttered in a depressed voice.

    "It''s so troublesome that I am so handsome. If only I were ugly like these traffickers. They wouldn''t have found me so easily. I really envy them."

    {��} Lily wanted to say that she was referring to his Thunder Coating spell being too high profile, but Luis didn''t give her time for that, as his focus was now on casting more and more spells.

    "Thunder Javelin!"

    The trafficker who was called ugly by Luis was furious. He was ready to use his spell to attack him. However, Luis'' attack came too fast even before he could respond, sting half of his body.

    *Boom! *

    "Time?!"

    {125 seconds and 7 enemies left!}

    "Next direction?"

    {Two enemies! Left, after two rows of containers!}

    "Okay!"

    Luis rushed at a fast speed, then jumped on top of the container, looking down on the traffickers. A smirk appeared on his face as he saw them waiting for his arrival, having prepared their spells ready tounch at him.

    ''Another two E-Ranks! Huh?!''

    Until now, all the traffickers he had defeated inside the ship were E ranks. ''Well, they are all average E-Ranks, so even Alicia should have no problem dealing with all of them together easily.''

    ''Whatever, let''s finish this fast!''

    After thinking that, Luis raised the corner of his mouth.

    "Are you waiting to wee me? So sweet."

    "WHAA?!" The traffickers hoisted their heads in surprise, then aimed their hands at Luis.

    "Rock Bullet!"

    "Water Bullet!"

    Luis dodged their attacks with nimble movements and said with a smile.

    "Although your wee surprised me. I am kind of short on time, so I can''t entertain myself here much longer. Here, take this as my token of appreciation."

    When he said that, he shot two Thunder Javelins at them and waved them goodbye.

    "See you guyster!"

    *Boom! * (x2)

    {Master, you are wasting time.}

    "Hey, can''t I have some fun? I have been too stressed and consumed a lot of my brain cells in thest few hours. Give me a break."

    {�� You have 95 seconds left.}

    With Lily''s navigation. Luis found two more enemies within a few seconds. This time, he didn''t waste time with them and used his Thunder Snake to entwine them into paralysis.

    {70 seconds��}

    Luis hurried towards the bridge deck of the ship. Where he found two men waiting for him. One of them was an average muscr guy, and another one was a tall man with an enormous body.

    ''He is two heads taller than even me. Is he still human? Or maybe a side species of a giant? Whatever, let''s finish them and find thest one.''

    Just when Luis was about to attack, the tall man spoke in a deep voice.

    "So, you are the intruder who has been creating chaos in my ship?"

    Luis was taken aback for a moment, then shook his head with a serious expression. "No, I''m just an intern crew member of the ship."

    His answer made their expression dark, and they both thought at the same time. ''At leaste up with a usible lie!''

    The shorter man took a deep look at him and questioned. "What species are you? Your body shape is like a normal human. Is your body made of gold?"

    Luis looked at the shorter trafficker with a strange expression. ''What''s with your greedy expression? Do you think you can sell my body?''

    A chill ran down Luis'' spine and with a disgusted expression on his face, he shot a thunder javelin at him while also answering his query.

    "I am a Formosus Human. The best kind!"

    *Boom! *

    The tall man couldn''t react in time to save his subordinate, as Luis'' attack was too fast.

    ''This guy�� He is strong!''

    He took a fighting stance, observing Luis with a cautious expression.

    {50 seconds left.}

    ''Two left to go, huh? I can tell this guy is strong. Maybe he is also a D-Rank.'' Luis thought with some excitement. This would be his first time fighting against another D-Rank.

    "Rock Armor!"

    The tall man created a rocky armor around him, increasing his attack and defense capabilities. Then he said in a deep voice.

    "No matter what or whoever you are. I am going to crush you like an ant and throw you into the sea."

    "Yeah, yeah, too much nonsense."

    "What?"

    His eyes widened in shock because, in the blink of an eye, Luis disappeared from his spot and appeared right in front of him with a golden fist covered in lightning. Of course, it wasn''t Luis using his space abilities. His physical speed was already too fast.

    Before the trafficker could snap out of his shock, the barrage of powerful punches with the intensity of lightning fell on him.

    *Boom*

    *Boom*

    *Bang*

    The rocky defense on top of his body cracked a little by little, while the tall man couldn''t even find an opening to counterattack. He found himself helpless, being on the constant receiving end of Luis'' attacks.

    *Thwack*

    *Bham*

    ��

    ''What a great punching bag. Unfortunately, I don''t have time to y,'' Luis thought with a sigh as he remembered there was another trafficker to deal with after him.

    "Lightning Whip!"

    The rocky armor around the trafficker''s neck was already crumbling, so Luis wrapped his Lightning Whip around his neck to paralyze him. However, he still wasn''t down, so Luis shot a dozen Thunder Bullets at him until his enormous body mmed down, unconscious.

    This fight was more like a one-sided beating, because even if they both were D-Rank. There was still quite some difference between an average D-Rank and someone like Luis, whose foundation and talent are too strong.

    "Phew~"

    Right when Luis exhaled a deep breath after confirming his enemy was indeed unconscious, Lily reminded him.

    {Master 20 seconds left.}

    "Oh, shit! Hurry, tell me! Where is thest one?!"

    Just as Lily was about to answer him. A feminine voice sounded.

    "Are you looking for me?"

    Luis, who was already in a hurry to finish the task, turned around and shot a Thunder Bullet at that woman.

    ''Good thing she came here herself and saved some time.''

    He thought in his mind, but then his eyes widened in surprise as that woman, without effort, flicked his thunder bullet with a wave of her hand.

    *Boom* The Thunder Bullet exploded on the deck.

    ''This woman is powerful.'' A solemn expression appeared on Luis'' face as he looked at her. ''Is she the real boss of these traffickers?''

    {Master, 15 seconds left.}

    ''I guess I won''t be able to make it in time.'' Luis sighed as he stopped thinking about the mission and focused on her.

    "I am��"

    "Thunder Javelin!" (x4)

    *Whoosh* (x4)

    The woman was about to say something but facing Luis'' attacks, her eyes squinted, and she took a defensive stance, then easily deflected the Thunder Javelin with her martial arts.

    Luis was shocked to see how easily she dealt with his attacks. ''She didn''t dodge but deflected it! This isn''t something even an average C-Rank can do! I''ve met a powerful enemy this time.''

    While he was thinking, Lily''s voice sounded, making him sigh in frustration.

    {Master the time''s up.}

 Chapter 164: "You Are Muse?"

    Luis became disheartened that in the end, he couldn''t defeat all the enemies on time. ''Sigh�� There''s no point thinking about it now. Let''s just deal with this woman first. She seems kind of tricky.''

    Her previous disy of ease in deflecting his attacks. Made Luis certain that she differed from other traffickers, realizing that confronting her would demand a considerable disy of strength on his part. He got serious and stopped holding back. He raised his hands high in the air while observing her with caution.

    "You are strong. Very well, I''ll also get serious!"

    "Wait listen-"

    She wanted to say something, but Luis cut her mid-sentence by using his spell.

    "Thunder Javelin!" (x50)

    The next moment, she found herself surrounded by fifty Thunder Javelins aiming at her from midair, blocking all her escape routes. Surprise shed through her eyes, witnessing the unexpected strength disyed by the other party.

    "No, no, WAIT A MOMENT!"

    She raised her voice to be heard by him.

    Luis was just about tounch his attacks and see whether she could deflect them this time. However, he paused when he heard her shout.

    "What?! Do you have anyst words?! Sorry, I''m not interested."

    The woman''s lips twitched in annoyance, sensing his imminent attack. In a rush, she interjected.

    "Wait, listen. I''m not affiliated with them."

    Luis didn''t lower his raised hand, nor did he revoke his spell. Still on guard, he said in a small whisper.

    "Lily, check her identity."

    If she wasn''t associated with these criminals, wouldn''t she already have a registered identity? Verifying it was a breeze for them.

    {Master, her name is Muse, and she is the one who dealt with all the documentation process with the Port Authority.}

    Upon hearing this, a smirk yed at the corner of Luis'' lips as he responded with a touch of sarcasm.

    "So, you im not to be involved, yet you do the secretary''s work very well. Quite amusing, Muse."

    Muse seemed taken aback by his words, then chuckled and rified.

    "I am not Muse. I''m merely controlling her body, infiltrating their ranks."

    Luis'' eyes became sharp when he heard her response and a certain character appeared in his mind. ''Is it her?! Hena Gravell? No wonder Professor Olivia was so confident, but this also means they could have saved the kids much earlier�� Sigh�� Alicia is going to hate her for this�� Well, she already does.''

    Now that he had guessed her identity. He willed to talk and confirm it just in case.

    "Are you the backhand left by Professor Olivia?"

    Muse nodded, also surprised that he didn''t question her about the body control.

    "I am Hena Gravell, just like Olivia. I''m also a professor at the Oracle Academy."

    ''Sure enough, it''s her. I suppose it''s over atst.'' he sighed. Then his eyes glinted as he thought. ''Hmm, perhaps I should seize this opportunity to win her favor. After all, I''m very interested in her mind techniques. Mastering them could give major enhancement to my Illusion Magic. If my memory serves me well, she appreciatespliments.''

    After nning on how to approach her, Luis showed a surprised expression on the surface and said in disbelief. "Wait, are you THE Professor Hena?! The master of mind?!"

    As he expected, after hearing his praise, a wide smile appeared on Muse''s, or rather Professor Hena''s, face.

    "Fufu~ I am surprised that you know of me. However, I''m not that great." She said while waving her hand.

    ''Her words are modest, but her expression says otherwise.'' She had an expectant look on her face, as if asking for morepliments. ''Sigh, this narcissist.''

    "No, professor. I admire you a lot. I''ve always wanted to meet you."

    "Fufu~ It''s nice hearing such words from the younger generation." Hena smiled, then squinted her eyes. "So, now can you take back these spells? Although my original body should have no problem, Muse''s body can''t handle these things."

    Yes, as of now, she still had fifty Thunder Javelins surrounding her, aiming at her and ready forunch.

    "Don''t worry about it, professor. They are just to guard the ship from the attacks of Sea Monsters. You can just ignore them."

    Although he said so, their aim was still at Hena.

    Hena''s lips twitched as she understood the indirect meaning behind his words. ''I still doubt your identity, so I won''t lower my guard until I''ve confirmed it.'' Though she agreed with his suspicions about her, she was still very dissatisfied. Especially after his statement before.

    ''Is this how you treat the person you admire?'' She pouted but kept herints to herself.

    ---

    After gathering all the live and dead traffickers together. Luis stood in front of one of the containers and cut it using the lightning swirling around his fingers.

    Inside the container, just as he expected, he found those familiar drums. After opening the seal of one of those container drums, he found two unconscious kids inside.

    ''Same condition. Drugged by hallucination herb.'' Luis pressed his lips and right then he wanted to free all the kids, but he calmed down his impulse as this was in the middle of the ocean. If he tries opening the containers, the mps might get loose and the containers on the upper part might fall into the ocean.

    ---

    Luis went to the control room, and Lily hacked into the control system to stop the ship. "Now, we just have to wait for them to arrive, then let the naval officers take this ship back."

    ***

    A short whileter, Luis noticed the arrival of the boats alongside the ship. The next moment, the figures of Diana and Alicia leapt high in the air andnded on the ship''s deck.

    "Luis!" Alicia called out his name with a wide smile on her face. "You did it!"

    Luis smiled back at her. "Hehe~ isn''t your hubby handsome?"

    "Very handsome!" She nodded.

    He grinned at her honest words and was about to say something, but Diana interrupted.

    "Luis! How did you catch up with the ship so fast?!"

    Olivia, who had justnded on the deck, also looked over when she heard Diana''s question. She was very curious about Luis'' method, as even she couldn''t figure out how he did it. So, she also waited for his answer.

    Diana''s interruption annoyed Luis, as he was just about to tease Alicia and flirt with her.

    He looked at her and said with a serious expression. "I am very talented at surfing."

    Alicia on the side had a neutral expression on her face, and she didn''t speak. She knew this must be the work of Luis'' invention. After going back, she would ask him to show it.

    Olivia''s brows twitched when she heard Luis''me answer. However, to everyone''s surprise, Diana showed a look of understanding and nodded.

    "I see. No wonder. Maybe I should also try to learn to surf. It will work well with my water element."

    She contemted, while thinking back to the scene where Luis caught up with the ship. ''After I learn it. I will also look cool.'' Thinking of this, a wide grin appeared on her face.

    Luis was unaware of her thoughts, regardless he cheered for her. "You''ve got this."

    ***

    Once the naval officers boarded the ship, they swiftly assumedmand, coordinating efforts to maneuver the vessel and redirect its course.

    As their coordinated actions took effect, the ship gradually pivoted, facing the direction leading back to Pharmos City. With the change in direction set in motion, everyone began the return journey, sailing back along the route toward Pharmos City.

    Olivia came up to Hena and chatted with her.

    "Thanks, Hena, I troubled you a lot."

    Hena pouted, then said in aining voice.

    "I was more troubled when you asked me not to take action! Do you know how difficult it was to restrain myself from killing those bastards?! Theyid hands on those kids! It''s an unforgivable sin!"

    "Yeah, they will get the punishment they deserve."

    When Hena heard Olivia''s assurance. She paused for a moment, then asked in a serious tone.

    "�� Olivia, what about the people behind this kidnapping? When are we going to take action against them?"

    Olivia didn''t answer her immediately but faced the sea, then after a few seconds, she murmured.

    "�� Let''s wait for now."

    Hena frowned. "You are being indecisive again."

    "Maybe�� but you know better that they are all connected. If we try to uproot them all�� It''s going to be a war."

    Hearing this, Hena looked at her lost expression, then sighed. Because she knew what Olivia said was indeed right. However, she still couldn''t let it go. If it wasn''t for their fast response. These hundreds of children would have had a miserable ending.

    She was just about to say something, but then they both turned back in unison as they sensed the arrival of another person.

 Chapter 165: Aftermath.

    "What is it, Luis?" Olivia asked.

    "Professor, now that the 3-hour time you gave us is over. I wanted to ask if these are all the kids or if there are more whom we don''t know about?" When Luis asked this, he also nced at Hena. Because if there was such a situation, then she must have the information about it.

    "�� What about thest pickup location that you learned about from those agents?"

    "Oh, well, we were short on time. So, I informed Mayor Haiba about it and let him send the guards to do the rescue."

    "I see. In that case, these should be all. Isn''t that right, Hena?"

    At Olivia''s words, Hena nodded in acknowledgement. "Yes, the rescue isplete."

    "No, not yet!" Luis shook his head. "We still haven''t solved the condition of the kids."

    Hena understood his worry. ''It no wonder he is worried. After all, Cyndy hasn''t made the cure public.'' She was just about to assure him, but Olivia spoke first, interrupting her.

    "I heard Alicia say that you have a cure for them, Luis. Why don''t you tell us?"

    Luis narrowed his eyes and asked, "Don''t you have a cure, Professor?"

    "No," Olivia said while shaking her head.

    "I see," Luis said, while thinking. ''What a liar! She thinks I don''t know that Professor Cyndy has already developed a cure for it. Whatever, I have already disyed enough things as of now. Which I''m sure will make her interested in the technology of my family. There''s no need to show off anymore and make her doubt if we are so advanced in the field of medicine, then why haven''t we shown it to the world?''

    *Sigh*

    "I just assured them, hoping that you might have a solution." His brows tensed. "Now what should we do, Professor? What will happen to those poor kids?"

    Olivia stared at him for a few seconds. From her observation alone, she could tell he wasn''t lying. ''Guess, I thought too much before.''

    At first, Hena felt confused. ''Why would Olivia lie to Luis when they had already confirmed that Cyndy''s medicine could save the kids?'' However, after listening in on their conversation, she got a general idea. ''I see, there was some misunderstanding before, and Olivia was just testing him.''

    She nced at Olivia and saw her signalling her to speak. This made her let out a faint smile. As she assured Luis in a gentle tone.

    "Don''t worry Luis, maybe Professor Olivia doesn''t know, but Professor Cyndy from our academy has developed a cure to save them all. They will be fine."

    "Really?! Professor Hena! Are you being honest?!" Luis'' eyes brightened in excitement.

    "Of course! I''ll never lie to my students!" Hena said while puffing up Muse''s chest.

    ''Bull shit! You guys have been lying this entire time!'' Though, heined in his mind. On the surface, he exhaled a sigh and showed a relieved expression. "Phew~ That''s a relief."

    ***

    After returning to the Rosaline Port, everyone got to work and unloaded all the containers from the ship. The medical team and the ambnces from several hospitals had already arrived there at the call of Officer Kuro and the request of Mayor Haiba to the city administration.

    One by one, all the unconscious kids were brought out of the drums and inspected by the medics. However, they could only treat their bruises and give them oxygen.

    Olivia saw their helplessness, so she came forward and from her mana bracelet, she took out the medicines and prescriptions that Professor Cyndy had prepared before she came here.

    Then she exined to them various things that Cyndy had told her before.

    "Do you all understand? Just follow these prescriptions and let the kids rest." She said, addressing all the medics.

    While Olivia was busy talking to the medics, Luis looked at Hena beside him and asked. "Professor Hena, will Professor Cyndye here for the treatment?"

    "Of course, she will be here tomorrow and will stay here for a couple of days treating all the kids. However, you don''t have to worry about those things. On that note, I would like to say."

    Hena paused, then turned to Luis, Alicia, and Diana with a smile on her face.

    "Congrattions onpleting your first rescue mission! You all did a wonderful job!"

    She expected them to be happy, or at least smile at her appreciation. However, their nd expressions made her feel strange.

    "What? Aren''t you guys happy?"

    "That''s not it, Professor." It was Alicia who uttered while ncing at Luis.

    "Then what is it?" Hena asked with a frown.

    Alicia sighed, then exined. "I almost did nothing on this mission. Which makes me feel kind of useless." Diana also nodded alongside her, expressing that she felt the same way.

    Hena didn''t expect them to have such a reason. She shifted her gaze to Luis and saw that he was also in his thoughts. "What about you, Luis? Olivia told me it was because of your wits that this rescue was sessful. Why do you look unhappy too?"

    Luis snapped out of his thoughts and said with a serious expression. "I think I wasn''t efficient enough."

    Hena''s expression became strange, and she was speechless at his response. "Efficient?!" Her lips twitched and said in aining voice. "Do you think this mission was something that first-year students can solve on their own without information and within a 3-hour time limit?!"

    "Is it not?" Luis asked, tilting his head.

    "No!" Hena eximed, feeling exasperated. "For you all, doing this mission without information was equivalent to a B-level difficulty mission!"

    "Is a B-level mission difficult?"

    "Of course, it is!" Hena was feeling a slight headache. ''Why is he asking such stupid questions? Don''t tell me I misjudged him before?'' However, all her doubts vanished when she heard Luis'' next sentence.

    "In that case, Professor. The reward for a B-level mission should also be quite good, right?" Luis asked with a smirk.

    "Y-yes," Hena stuttered, as she had a feeling of falling into a trap. Sure enough, the next moment, she heard him say.

    "Then, Professor Hena, we also deserve a suitable reward forpleting a mission of such difficulty, right? However, Professor Olivia only promised us a D-Rank skill scroll. Isn''t this too little for a B-level mission? Please, do us justice."

    "N-no, what I meant to say-"

    Before Hena could take back her words, Luis interrupted her with a radiant smile. "Thank you! Professor Hena! I knew I could count on you! As a professor of the esteemed Oracle Academy. I''m sure you will stay true to your word. After all, you don''t lie to your students, right?"

    *Gulp*

    Hena swallowed back the words she was about to say andughed with a wry expression. "Of course, I''ll help you get the rewards you deserve."

    At this moment, Hena wanted to p herself twice. Why couldn''t she control her chatter mouth? They had initially ssified this mission as a D-level rescue mission because they had information about this case beforehand from the logistics department of the academy. This means the reward they will receive forpleting the mission is only D level. For them, which are merit points.

    Therefore, now they will have to reward Luis and the others with their private money. ''Ugh, Olivia is going to scold me for sure. I just hope she pays half of it.'' Hena was helpless at this moment. Because if she doesn''t stay true to her words, she will lose her reputation and credibility.

    ''It is all because of this brat who tricked me.'' Hena red at Luis with hateful eyes. ''He is not just a student, but a hateful little demon who swindled me.''

    ***

    Sometimeter, Mayor Haiba, the mayor of Chimut and Mh town, along with people from the city administration, also arrived at the hospital.

    After checking on the status of the kids, they came up to Luis and the others.

    "Thank you, everyone, for saving the kids. We can''t express how grateful we are."

    Luis, Alicia, and Diana found themselves inundated with endless gratitude, feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of thanks they received.

    After freeing themselves from those officials. Luis and the others came to a certain ward, where they found a duo of mother and daughter fox beast-kin. The daughter, who seemed to be around 10-year-old, was lying on the bed unconscious, and the mother was catering to her and observing her with motherly eyes.

    "Miss Mira?" Alicia called out her name.

    Startled, Mira turned to look at them.

    "Miss Alicia, Miss Diana and Mr. Luis! Did you all have your talk with the mayor?" she asked with a pained smile, trying to hide her worry.

    "Yes, we did." Luis nodded.

    Alicia walked up to her, then cing her hand on her shoulder, she asked in a gentle voice. "Is this your daughter?"

    Mira nodded and stopped herself from tearing up. "Yes, this is my daughter, Ashly."

    "She''s cute." Alicia smiled. Then asked, "Did they give her the medicine?"

    "Yes, they injected her," Mira answered truthfully.

    "Good, then after Professor Cyndy checks on her tomorrow. She will wake up within a few days." Diana said happily.

    When she heard this, a smile appeared on Mira''s face. She stood up and bowed to them as jovial tears started bawling down her eyes. Then she thanked them.

    "Thank you, everyone, for saving my daughter and bringing her back to me. I''ll be forever in your debt."

    They smiled and looked at each other. Then Luis waved his hand in nonchnce. "We just fulfilled our promise. Don''t think too much about it and just take care of her."

    Mira just nodded at his words, but in her heart, she was determined to repay them in the future. At this point, Luis didn''t know that in the future, this grateful mother would be the one to help them out of a predicament they would find themselves in.

    ***

    (Read the author''s thoughts.)

 Chapter 166: Back To Academy!

    Another hourter.

    Olivia, along with Luis, Alicia and Diana, went to the transport junction of Pharmos City. Then, using the transport circle, they returned to the academy. Hena, using Muse''s body, stayed behind along with the captured criminals to deal with the aftermath.

    Luis'' generous behaviour in helping them lift the Curse Mark of the tall man and the few other criminals made the Professors very satisfied. With this, they can interrogate themter without trouble after they regain consciousness.

    However, unnoticed by Olivia and Hena, Luis had left a rune mark on that tall man''s tattooed shoulder and had made those criminals swallow a button drone each.

    ***

    White light shed by, and four figures appeared on the underground floor of the Oracle Academy''s library.

    "Wuu~ Finally! We are back!" Diana said with a grin while stretching out her arms.

    "Why do you make it sound like we were away for days?" Olivia shook her head with a chuckle. "To go there ande back. It only took us less than six hours."

    "I know that." Diana pouted, then she thought of something and turned to look at Luis and Alicia, who were walking a step behind. "Alicia!"

    "Huh? What?!" Startled, Alicia looked at her with a frown.

    Diana grinned, then raising her right hand, she pointed at her. "I challenge you to a duel! Let''s fight!"

    "��" (x3)

    "No," Alicia said with an indifferent expression.

    "Eh! Why?" Diana became disappointed at her refusal.

    Alicia''s brows twitched in annoyance, and she scolded her. "What do you mean, why?! It''s 1 a.m.! Which idiot will ept your duel?! I want to go back and sleep!"

    Luis, on the side, gave Alicia a meaningful look and added in his mind. ''Yeah, why are you making trouble Diana?! My wife just wants to sleep with me! Can''t you see how impatient she is?!''

    "It will take just a few minutes, pretty please?" Diana begged, showing a pitiful look, while her fists clenched in excitement.

    At this moment, Luis stepped forward to say. "Stop it, Diana! Just like she said, we just want to go back and sleep right now. You can duel with herter. Besides, don''t you want to rest too?"

    "Mm, fine�� I''ll challenge herter." Dianapromised.

    Olivia added with a smile. "Remember to go to Battle Arena. Otherwise, next time there will be proper punishment."

    "��" The three of them were speechless at her words.

    ***

    After they came out of the library, Olivia was ready to separate from them.

    "Okay, you all can go back and rest now. As for your rewards, you cane to meter."

    "About that, Professor. You can discuss it with Professor Hena first." Luis said.

    "Huh? Why?" Olivia raised her brows in confusion.

    "Well, let''s just say she made us a promise. I hope you will fulfill it together."

    Olivia couldn''t help but have a bad feeling after she heard his vague answer. She wanted to ask what the promise was, but Luis cut her off with another question.

    "By the way, Professor. Can we take a leave tomorrow?"

    "Why do you want to take a leave? With your ranks, aren''t a few hours of rest enough?"

    "No!" Luis and Alicia shook their heads in unison.

    "No!" The next second, Diana also did the same.

    Alicia wasn''t interested in going to sses if Luis wasn''t with her. Besides, she has a feeling he will do something interesting tomorrow since he wants to take a leave. How can she miss the fun? As for Diana, she had no reason. She just followed suit.

    "�� Fine. You all can take a leave for tomorrow. Now go back and rest."

    Olivia waved her hand and in the next second disappeared from their vision.

    "She''s gone?"

    Diana mumbled while looking at the spot where she had disappeared. Then said with a wide grin. "Hehe, I''m going to ask her to teach me her movement technique as a reward."

    "Good for you," Luis said.

    She turned to him and asked, "What about you, Luis? Are you going to learn her movement technique, too?"

    "Nah, I''m not interested in that," Luis said while yawning. In his mind, he added, ''I know of a movement technique that is much more suitable for me. Too bad I can''t get it for now.''

    "Why though? I think it''s pretty good."

    "Yeah, I won''t deny that. However, I''m toozy to work hard." He said with a listless expression.

    Alicia beside him rolled her eyes. ''Say that after you remove the 5 times gravitational pressure from yourself.''

    Yes, for this entire mission. Luis and Alicia were under the effect of his gravity spell. At this moment, Alicia was still walking under 3 times gravitational pressure.

    Diana, who was oblivious, snorted at his remark and said with an arrogant expression. "If you don''t work hard. You will lose your number-one position to me and will never be able to catch up. Do you want to be a loser and waste all your talent?"

    She preached because she didn''t want to lose her rival. However, his response made her annoyed.

    "Say that after you defeat me."

    "Hmph, just wait after I master Professor Olivia''s movement technique. I will challenge you again."

    "Sure, but from now on, the challenges won''t be like the one yesterday. Instead, we will bet something. You know, for motivation purposes."

    When Diana heard the word motivation. She agreed without hesitation.

    "Okay, but what are we betting on?"

    Luis showed a thoughtful expression, then said, "Let''s decide that when you challenge me next time."

    "Deal!" Diana grinned.

    ***

    Inside their dorm.

    In front of t number one, Diana separated from Luis and Alicia, waving them goodbye. Now only the two of them stood there for a few seconds, and the silence ensued.

    "�� Luis." Alicia was the first to break the silence.

    "Let''s talk about it inside, Alicia," Luis said, knowing well that they were going to have a long talk. So, he preferred to do that while in bed.

 Chapter 167: Tempting Alicia!

    Alicia nodded in agreement. Then, just as the two opened the door and entered his t. A ck and white furry figure came rushing towards them and jumped into Alicia''s arms.

    *Kyu~*

    "Oh, my baby~ You were awake?" Alicia asked in a coquettish tone while snuggling Ivy.

    *Kyu~* Ivy was the same.

    After hearing Alicia''s coquettish voice just now. For some reason, Luis'' imagination started running wild, and he became excited, thinking about his wonderful future married life. ''However, before all that. I must think of a way to deal with her freezing fetish.''

    Although he was thinking about the countless sleepless nights with Alicia that he would experience in the future, his expression at this moment was very calm andposed.

    He went forward to rub Ivy''s back and said with a faint smile. "Ivy~ Mommy~ and Daddy~ are back!"

    *Kyu~* Ivy responded, acknowledging his presence, then moved to sit on Alicia''s shoulder, wrapping her tail around her neck.

    Alicia blushed when she heard the terms ''Mommy'' and ''Daddy'', but she didn''t rebuke him.

    ---

    Then the two of them had a shower. Naturally, not together and changed into their night dresses.

    Alicia wore a seductive purple nightgown while Luis lounged in just his boxers, ready for any possibility, even if nothing was likely to happen.

    "She is not letting you go, huh?" Luis said as he observed Alicia, who was tying her hair and Ivy, who wasn''t leaving her shoulder.

    "Hehe~" Alicia chuckled and teased him. "What are you jealous?"

    Luis didn''t shy away from her teasing and said with a nod. "Yeah, I want to snuggle with you, too. Can I?"

    His response surprised her, and she was silent for a moment as if she was considering it. However, in the end, she still blushed and snorted. "Shameless."

    He shrugged. "It was your idea in the first ce." He had a feeling that she would back away, which made him a little disappointed.

    "Anyway, forget about that. Can we start the discussion?"

    She knew if they continued talking about it, she would lose anyhow. So, she diverted the topic.

    "Sure, ask away. What do you want to know?" Luis said while slumping on the bed.

    When she heard this, Alicia also came near the bed and sat on it while looking at Luis with curious eyes.

    "Tell me what device you used to catch up with the cargo ship?"

    "Oh, that." Luis took out a pair of transparent gloves from his mana bracelet and gave it to Alicia. "I call them Magus Gloves��"

    Then he started his exnation by giving her the basic details of how it works and its functions.

    "Magnus Gloves has five functions. Energy Storage, Electricity Maniption, Maic Field Creation, Deactivation, and Morphing."

    Energy Storage, as the name suggests, can work as an energy reservoir for him in case he runs out of mana and in need for his lightning element. For now, the storage isn''t much. However, he will upgrade it in the future.

    "So, it''s like a spare battery. From which you can charge your electricity in the middle of your battle." Alicia said with a look of realization.

    Luis'' lips twitched at her wordings. However, he couldn''t deny her, because in a sense, what she said wasn''t wrong.

    "Anyway, the next one is Electricity Maniption, which I guess I don''t need to exin. As it''s pretty much clear."

    "Yeah, but this function is of no use to you, though," Alicia said while observing the transparent gloves with interest.

    "Yeah, with my lightning affinity, this function is of no use to me," Luis said with a nod. Then he exined with a serious expression. "However, with these gloves, people with no lightning affinity can also use electric attacks. Though only to some extent. In its current state, it can only give small electric shocks. So, it needs a lot of development before others can use it."

    "Hmmm," Alicia stared at him for a few seconds, then asked. "Are you going to give it to someone?"

    Luis was silent for a moment, then said with a smile. "Just think about it, Alicia. In the future, after I upgrade these gloves further. You can use Lightning Element, too."

    "Although not as strong as me, it can still work as an auxiliary method for you. If you add it to your fighting style, then to a certain extent you will also be a dual element user like me."

    After hearing this, if you say his words, did not tempt her. Then, it''s a lie. Nevertheless, Alicia refrained from expressing her thoughts as the smirk on Luis'' face implied that there would be a price attached, and he intended to impose an audacious condition for it.

    So, she just nodded with an indifferent expression.

    "I see. It sounds useful. Exin the next function?"

    Luis chuckled at her theatrics. From her expression, he could guess what she was thinking. However, since she restrained herself from saying anything about it. He didn''t intend to make it clear now. ''I''ll create one for you too, Alicia. But only after I upgrade it. So that it can work well with your Ice element.''

    "Well, the next function is Maic Field Creation, which I used to catch up to the ship."

    Maic Field Creation: As the electrical current courses through the gloves'' circuits, it generates a maic field around the wearer. The gloves'' intricate design allows them to focus this maic field in specific directions or intensities based on the wearer''s intentions, effectively creating a localized electromaic force.

    "Electromaism? Amazing!" Alicia eximed.

    "Yeah, with this function. I can manipte the prity too. Which I can use to attract or repel metallic objects and adjust the trajectory."

    "Then there is deactivation. Which well is not much of a function, but still."

    Deactivation: With this, the wearer can deactivate the gloves with a simple gesture or just a thought. This action halts the flow of electromaic force and electricity, dissipating the maic field and returning the gloves to their inert state.

    "What about thest one, Morphing?" Alicia asked.

 Chapter 168: Luis Defeat!

    "With the function of Morphing, these gloves can change into any shape or structure I want at my will. They can morph into a gauntlet or can turn into a sharp weapon covering my hand. There are many possibilities. Though it''s only limited to the matter present."

    At his exnation, Alicia arched her brows, and her eyes widened in surprise.

    "You are telling me it can transform, too? Amazing! Show me how it works!" As she said that, she handed over the gloves back to him and watched in anticipation.

    Luis had a strange expression on his face as he wore the gloves, then morphed them into a gauntlet. Intrigued, Alicia closely observed and explored it by touching every part with her hands.

    ''Out of all the functions, it seems she is more interested in this one.'' He thought, amused by her behavior. ''But her way of touching the gauntlet is making me kind of restless.''

    "Wow, it''s hard!"

    ''Huh? What''s hard?!'' Luis snapped out of his thoughts and looked downwards, then at Alicia, whose eyes were focused on the gauntlets.

    "Luis, how did you make them?"

    Luis was silent for a moment, then sighed and answered her.

    "I used Mephinin Metal; it is also called transparent liquid metal. Because it''s a liquid metal, it has the function of Morphing."

    "No wonder," Alicia said while nodding with a look of realization. ''What an interesting metal. Mephinin is it?''

    "Before today, I never heard of this kind of metal."

    "Nor surprising. It''s a rare metal, after all." Luis said, while removing the Magus Gloves from his hands.

    Alicia noticed Ivy was getting drowsy, so she picked her up from her shoulder and went towards Ivy''s bed, which was near the couch, and she ced her on it.

    After making sure that Ivy was indeed asleep, she went back to bed and continued their conversation. "Just where do you always find these rare materials that I never even heard about? Before it was Omni Ore and now this Mephinin Metal."

    Luis chuckled and said, "It''s just luck. Besides, Mephinin Metal is something I purchased from the exchange center. I didn''t look for it. It was just avable."

    "Huh? You bought it. How many merit points did it cost?"

    "750k."

    "��" Alicia thought of the Merit Points she has now and stopped talking about it.

    Her expression turned serious as she asked, "Tell me, Luis, what are your thoughts about the mission?"

    "My thoughts? Well, it''s a big issue."

    "What do you mean?" Alicia asked with narrow eyes and her expression was very serious. Although, she also felt and thought about a lot of things. Without proof or facts, she can''t be sure about it and make any conclusion. Which is why she wanted to talk about this with Luis, the most reliable person in her life.

    Luis sat up on the bed and spoke.

    "I had a chat with Professor Olivia when you and Diana left to do the warehouse rescue."

    "So, she didn''t follow us at that time. No wonder she didn''t appear in front of us even after I cursed her."

    "��" Luis was speechless at Alicia''s words, but he regained hisposure and shared with her the contents of their conversation.

    ...

    "This incident is rted to the political troubles of the Temar Kingdom?" Alicia asked in astonishment.

    "I am not 100% sure, but this is what I can judge based on everything that transpired."

    "Even after knowing all that, she still tried to drag you into this?"

    "Yep, she did."

    "What a shameless woman!" Alicia''s hatred towards Olivia increased further.

    "That she is," Luis said, nodding in affirmation.

    "�� What are we going to do about this?"

    "Us? Nothing." Luis said and slumped on the bed again. "We will just wait and watch while I collect the information first."

    "I see." Alicia understood his underlying meaning and asked, "Do you think that bitch and Professor Hena will take action?"

    "Who knows?" Luis said with a shrug, and then a smirk appeared on his face. "But I do hope that they do something. It''s going to be interesting and save us from unnecessary troubles."

    "Hmm," Alicia was deep in thought. From his response and attitude towards the situation, she became certain that he must have a n in his mind. However, either he wasn''t willing to tell her or right now wasn''t the time for it. Because of the trust she had for him, she believed it to be thetter case. So, she decided not to talk about it and wait for him.

    When Luis saw Alicia''s frowning expression. He had the urge to pinch her cheeks, but the thought of sleeping with a frozen hand made him restrain his urges.

    "Anyway, now I am feeling sleepy. Let''s talk about the rest tomorrow. Can you turn off the lights, please?" He said, while changing to afortable sleeping position.

    "Yeah, sure. Good night."

    Luis thought of something and teased her with a mischievous smile. "How about a goodnight kiss?"

    Alicia blushed. "No, it''s too soon."

    Because of her reaction, he became even more excited and teased her further. He got close to her and said in a charming voice. "You know Alicia, you look very sexy in this purple nightgown."

    "Really?"

    "Of course, you make me feel so hot that I am barely suppressing my desires," Luis said with a groan. While slowly closing the distance between them. ''Will it happen today?'' His heart was full of expectations. That''s when he heard Alicia''s response.

    "�� If you are feeling hot, should I cool it down for you?"

    "Will you?!" Luis almost jumped up in excitement. Thinking that happiness came too suddenly.

    "Of course," Alicia said with a sweet smile, but her next words chilled him down. "A few Ice Swords on your body should do the job, right? Do you want to try?"

    "!"

    Luis'' body shuddered because of her dangerous words, and he said in a trembling voice. "Nah, I''m good."

    He knew today was impossible. But, he hadn''t lost this war yet. This was just a decisive retreat. Sooner orter, he shall im his queen.

 Chapter 169: Norowa Tradings!

    The next morning.

    Luis'' eyes fluttered open as he stretched his body and nced at the sleeping Alicia. Then checked the time.

    [Time 5:07 a.m.]

    ''Huh, did I wake up so early?'' He wanted to sleep a little more. However, it seems the few hours of rest were enough for him, as he didn''t feel sleepy anymore. ''Is it because I''m a D rank now or because of my recovery skill? Hmm, probably both.''

    Since he was already awake, he didn''t n to sleep anymore and changed into a tracksuit to go for a morning run.

    *Kyu~*

    "Oh, Ivy, did I wake you up?"

    *Kyu~* Ivy got close to his feet and nuzzled him.

    "Do you want to go jog with me?"

    *Kyu~*

    "Then,e on," Luis said with a smile. While wondering, ''Where did Alicia keep Ivy''s leash?''

    Ivy didn''t wait for him to look for it and jumped on him. Then, making a second jump, she climbed on his shoulder and sat there, wrapping her tail around his neck like a scarf.

    Her action startled him for a moment, then a faint smile appeared on his face. "So, you didn''t want to jog with me. You just wanted to go outside."

    *Kyu~* Ivy let out a cute sound while rubbing her small furry head against his cheeks.

    "Okay, fine, let''s go. I know you are bored staying inside the t." Luis chuckled while keeping Ivy out of the effect of his gravity spell.

    ---

    After he left his t, without disturbing Alicia''s sleep. Luis put on an earpiece and started his run around the Academy City under 5 times gravitational pressure.

    "Lily."

    {Yes, Master.}

    "Did something happenst night?"

    {Yes, Miss Hena interrogated the captives.}

    ''Oh? As expected of her, I knew she wouldn''t wait long. In the absence of Olivia, she was bound to act. Good thing I left the button drones and the rune mark behind.'' Luis thought as he remembered her character from the game. ''If she hadn''t acted the way she did, I would doubt if her character differed from the one, he remembers.''

    Although, because the button drones are out of range, they can''t control them from here. However, Lily had hacked into the local server of the Southern Region of Temar Kingdom. So, as long as the button drones remain intact, she can still locate the signal and retrieve the recordings from them.

    "What are the findings?"

    {Should I y the entire interrogation?}

    "How long is it?"

    {3 hours.}

    "�� Including the torture?"

    {Yes, including it. She tortured them a lot. In the process, she also used many recovery potions to keep torturing them for a longer period.}

    "�� I don''t want to ruin my day by listening to their screams. Just summarize all the content."

    {Okay, Master. Here it is. As per their confession, the destination of the ship was Selvas City.}

    "Selvas?" When Luis heard the name of the city. His steps came to an abrupt halt and a deep expression appeared on his face.

    {Yes, it''s Selvas City, Master. Is there something wrong?}

    After a pause, he shook his head. "�� No, you continue."

    As he said that, he resumed his running while focusing on the content of Lily''s summary.

    {From the port of Selvas City, the goods were supposed to be picked up by Norowa Trading Company. As per their documentation, they were going to transport the children in the name of importing foreign goods.}

    "Let me guess, they have already bribed the authorities."

    {Not quite, as per them, the authorities are also under the effects of the Curse Mark. So, every time they can transport goods without problems.}

    *Hiss*

    Luis hissed and cursed under his breath.

    "Damn that Dark Magician! His methods are cunning, as always!"

    When he used to y the game, Luis just thought of him as a troublesome antagonist, who was very difficult to deal with. However, in this real world, against such an enemy, he can''t let down his guard. Not even for a moment.

    ''Since we have caught all the criminals that have seen me and Alicia. He shouldn''t know about us yet. However, I can''t be too sure.''

    ''For such a moody character. It''s better to prepare early. Or I can just act first, but only afterpletely cornering him and when I''m 100% sure of the victory.''

    ''That''s the only best way to fight with such an enemy. Defeat him in one fell swoop.''

    Various thoughts were running through Luis'' mind. Because he knew that the Dark Magician was bound to be their enemy. Especially after this mission. As for letting Alex deal with him, Luis had no hopes for this unreliable protagonist.

    "Lily, find out the details about the Norowa Trading Company. I want everything. Since they have been doing these illegal activities for a long time under the pretence of a tradingpany. They must be connected to a criminal organization."

    ording to his knowledge of the game. Several small and big criminal organizations have been working hidden in Selvas City. So, he doesn''t know which one is behind the Norowa Trading Company and could only try to pry on it by hacking.

    {I already have the information, Master.}

    "Huh��?" Luis'' mind went nk for a moment, as he couldn''t help mutter. "Did they confess this information in the interrogation, too?"

    He found it hard to believe because of the routine until now where all the criminals had limited ess to information.

    {No, master. After receiving the recordings. I made my judgement to hack into all the rted information to make myself efficient. Was the decision correct?}

    "�� Yes, good job." Luis was stunned for a moment, then smiled and praised her.

    {Hehe~} Lily''s cheerfulughter sounded. She was happy after receiving his praise.

    "Now, tell me what you found?"

    To his inquiry, Lily''sughter stopped, and she said in a serious voice.

    {Master, the Norowa Trading Company is rted to the Norwish Mafia, and their leader''s name is Nick Adams.}

    ***

    Quiz: Guess who is Nick Adams?

    1) Side Viin

    2) A Puppet

    3) Dark Magician

    4) Other Answers

 Chapter 170: Olavs Encouragement!

    Luis was stunned, his eyes widening in astonishment at the mention of the "Norwish Mafia" and "Nick Adams".

    ''Had they already been working together?'' As soon as he thought of that. His mind raced, remembering all the plots rted to the Norwish Mafia and the Dark Magician, connecting the dots as he processed the revtion.

    ''The game had never explicitly detailed the origins of the coboration between the Dark Magician and Nick Adams. It just stated that they coborated for the sake of interest. Now it seems they have been working together long before their plot started.''

    In the game story, the Dark Magician had worked with several criminal organizations and was very secretive. At the time when Alex and his friends confronted him, the Norwish Mafia was his most useful tool.

    ''Well, this is also good news. Since he is already working with them, his movements and the individuals he interacts with, to some extent, should be like the game''s plot. This will make it a little less difficult to locate him.''

    With a contemtive expression on his face, he asked.

    "Lily, can you find me the information of all the people Nick Adams has been in contact with?"

    {Over the past few months, he has made only a few public appearances. So, it''s difficult to track him.}

    "Figures��" Luis said with a sigh, but it did not discourage him. Because he had another way to find Nick Adams, or to be more precise, he knew of an individual who could lead him to Nick, and then to the Dark Magician. That person is none other than Nick Adam''s daughter, Nora Adams.

    "Search for a person named Nora Adams and start tracking her."

    {Got it, Master.}

    Nora Adams can be called a sub-heroine-level character if measured by her beauty. However, she wasn''t one. Her fate in the story made her one of the most unfortunate characters with miserable endings.

    When Luis thought of Nora''s plot, a deep frown etched on his face, and then a momentter, he sighed. ''If I have the opportunity and she hasn''t been broken yet�� I''ll try to save her.''

    After giving a few more instructions to Lily. Luis continued with his run, shaking other thoughts out of his mind.

    ***

    v Norris, a second-year student at the Oracle Academy, was on his usual morning run. When he came across another student who was in a simr tracksuit, running with a scarf around his neck.

    ''Is that a first year? He seems somewhat familiar.'' v thought as he observed that first year''s face until he disappeared from his vision because v was too fast and had left him behind.

    ''Oh, I remember! Isn''t he the guy who went on a date with that beautiful girl a few days ago? Tsk, wasting his youth on a girl.'' v snorted with displeasure.

    When vpleted another round of the Academy City with his fast speed. He caught up with that first-year student once again.

    ''Huh? Did he only reach here by now? No, maybe he took a rest somewhere.'' v shook his head, not thinking much about him, and made anotherp.

    However, this time, the same thing happened. For the time it took v toplete ap around the Academy City, that first year only covered a quarter of it. So, v slowed down his pace to observe him and the more he watched, the deeper his frown became.

    ''What''s with his speed and why is he already this exhausted?''

    ''The day has just started. If he has so little stamina that he is tired from a simple run, how is he going to cope when the practical lessons for the first-year students start?''

    As he observed the ''weak student,'' in front of him, v couldn''t help but wonder, ''How the hell did he even pass the entrance exam? Is his luck so good that he didn''t encounter any enemies?''

    The more he thought about it, the more likely he felt it to be the case.

    ''Well, at least he is working hard. Maybe he wants to change and be stronger. I should cheer him up.''

    ***

    "*Haah*�� *Haah*�� Ugh, this is�� getting difficult." Luis said while panting.

    A few minutes ago. He felt confident that he had adapted to running in 5 times gravity, so increasing it to eight times gravity pressure should be no problem. Only after he experienced it himself did he understand the difficulty.

    ''Maybe I should have waited a few more days before increasing the pressure.''

    Although, he thought so in his mind. Luis still didn''t decrease the pressure and continued running, taking each step with gritted teeth.

    ''Should I take a stamina potion? Nah, I should wait until my body can''t hold on anymore.''

    Luis broke out of his stream of thought as he noticed a presence approaching him. ''Isn''t he the guy who was running since earlier what is heing to me for?''

    v came near him, and before Luis could ask, he started speaking with a serious expression.

    "You are a first-year student, right?"

    Luis felt confused, but nodded, nheless. "Yes, *Haah*�� Who might�� *Haah*�� you be?"

    When v saw Luis panting so much, his expression deepened. "I am your senior, v Norris. However, let''s put the introductions aside. I have something very important to tell you."

    Luis was just about to introduce himself, stopped when he heard his words and a slight frown appeared on his face. ''v Norris? I don''t remember a guy like him. What important thing could it be that he wants to tell me?''

    "What is it, senior v?" Luis asked, with his expression full of confusion. Because no matter how much he thought about it, he couldn''t guess v''s intentions.

    v''s expression was solemn as he patted Luis'' shoulder.

    "Don''t give up! As long as you persist! Not only your stamina, but you can even rank up!"

    "Huh?" Luis let out a confused sound.

    v could see that his words didn''t affect him much, so he thought of another way to motivate him.

    "You don''t have to be confused. I know about you. You have a girlfriend, right? Remember, if you don''t improve your stamina, you will never be able to satisfy her. Just think about her and give it your all."

    Leaving behind those encouraging words, v patted the back of the dumbfounded Luis and continued running.

    ---

    The stunned Luis only reacted after v''s silhouette disappeared from his sight.

    "The heck''s wrong with that guy? Stamina? �� Oh, right!"

    It took Luis a moment to understand what had transpired, and a wry expression appeared on his face.

    ''My stamina isn''t low, dude. I''m just running under eight times gravity.''

    Luis shook his head and chuckled in amusement when he remembered his way of motivating him.

    ''What an interesting senior. v Norris, right? Hmm.''

    ***

    Afterpleting his run and recovering using a recovery potion. Luis returned to his t and saw that Alicia was already up, exercising in the gym. He picked up Ivy from his shoulder and ced her on the floor.

    "I''m back!" Luis shouted while gazing at Alicia''s curves when she lifted 100 kg weights. That should be 300 kg for her because of the gravity.

    "��" Alicia just gave a brief nce at him and, signaling Ivy not to disturb her, she continued lifting the weights.

    "I''m back, honey!" Luis said again, while raising his pitch this time to get her attention.

    "Don''t shout! I heard you the first time." Alicia said in an irritated tone.

    "Then you should also respond to me with a warm wee, right? For example, ''Wee back, hubby!'', or ''Oh, I love you so much!'', or ''You must be tired, let''s bathe together!''. Something along those lines." Luis said with a cheeky smirk.

    Alicia was speechless at his outrageous request. Especially when she heard thetter two examples. However, she didn''t give him any reply and just snorted, expressing her displeasure.

    This time, her reaction made him a little unexpected. ''Hmm? Why is her mood so bad? Normally, even if she is a little irritated. After my words, she would have blushed and bickered with me like usual. Then after a little teasing from me, her mood should have returned to usual.''

    Luis gazed at her for a few seconds, then asked. "�� Did something happen after I left?"

    Alicia''s arms lifting the weights paused and after hesitating for a moment, she sighed and nodded. "Sera came here."

    "Sera Dennis?!" When he heard her name, a frown appeared on his face. ''Why did she approach Alicia? She was already acting weird since the entrance exam and now this?''

    He had various doubts about her in his heart, but on the surface, he showed a confused frown and asked. "What did shee to you for? Tell me from the start."

    Alicia frowned and shook her head. "I don''t want to talk about this."

    "��" Luis stared at her for a few moments, then stepped closer to her, pulling her into an embrace.

 Chapter 171: Hateful Sera!

    "I won''t let you go unless you tell me," Luis said with an adamant expression that wouldn''t take no for an answer, and his embrace became even tighter. As they were both sweaty, he didn''t mind it at all.

    Alicia wanted to push him away, but feeling the warmth of his embrace, she immediately lost her resistance. She turned her head sideways and asked with slight annoyance in her tone. "Why are you being so pushy today?"

    "I must do so, otherwise you are going to be sulky all day. Then you will keep thinking about whatever is troubling you in your heart, worsening your mood."

    "�� Sigh�� Fine! I''ll tell you. Now let me go."

    "I will, but only after you share everything," Luis said, while secretly sniffing her natural body odor. ''Even after sweating so much, she smells so good.'' Although surprised, he hid it well under his serious expression.

    Unaware of his thoughts, Alicia, who also feltfortable in his embrace, didn''t care anymore and started recalling everything with a subtle expression.

    "It was around half an hour ago that Sera came here, disturbing my sleep. At first, I was surprised and wondered if she wanted to see you, but she told me she came here for me."

    Luis, who quietly listened to her without disturbing, thought, ''Does that mean she knows Alicia is living with me? Well, we aren''t keeping it a secret. So, it''s not surprising.''

    "She asked me if we could go to the academy together. However, I told her I''m on leave today so I can''t go with her."

    "She asked me why. I said it was for personal reasons. Then, out of politeness, I invited her in. She dly did so, as there was still quite some time before she left for the academy."

    "Wait, stop! Alicia, leave those other details and just tell me what she said to you that worsened your mood?"

    "I was just getting to that." Alicia pouted. "Well, I tried being friendly with her." She stopped speaking as she saw the doubtful expression on his face, and her expression became dark. "I''m not lying." She said with gritted teeth.

    "Yeah, I know." Luis nodded. "My wife is very sweet. She will never lie to me."

    "Can you be serious for a minute?" She deadpanned, but because of his words, her mood had improved a lot.

    "Okay, fine. Please continue."

    "Hmph, so after that, she chatted with me for a few minutes, recalling some things about our childhood when she was my ymate for some time. Though I don''t remember, I still responded the best I can��"

    Luis was listening to her words with a subtle expression when suddenly, she stopped speaking.

    "Alicia?" He called out to her gently and noticed her eyes had be distant. Her expression was the same as the day he met her for the first time.

    Luis'' expression became gloomy because he never wanted to see her again like this. ''What the hell did she say to her?!'' However, suppressing the various thoughts inside his mind, he patted her back and said in a gentle voice. "Don''t hide."

    Alicia took a deep breath and started speaking.

    "She started talking about Mom and how much she admired her. At first, her admiration for my mom touched me. But then she started speaking about Mom''s incident and how saddened she was after she heard about it. She asked me if we found the killers. I told her I was still looking for them."

    "She seemed to have expected such an answer from me and started consoling me."

    "��" Alicia paused for a few seconds, then raised her head to face him. "You know, Luis, what the implied meaning behind her consoling was? She wanted to me move on�� Give up on my revenge."

    At the end of her sentence, she couldn''t help but chuckle. "Haha, this was the funniest joke I''ve heard in a long time."

    Her chuckle turned into angryughter, and her eyes became fierce. "I barely resisted the urge to beat her to death and sent her away."

    "��" Luis'' expression became solemn, and he separated from her, letting her out of his embrace.

    "Luis?" Alicia called out in confusion, wondering if her violent behaviour repulsed him.

    "Alicia, do you think Sera knows who the killer is?" Luis asked with a contemtive expression.

    "Huh?" Alicia reacted. "Wait! Do you mean she knows about it and that''s why she wants me to change my mind? Is she also somehow involved?"

    Luis shook his head. "I don''t think she, herself, should have been involved with the incident, considering she was still a little girl at that time. However, we can''t be too sure about the Dennis family. They may or may not be directly or indirectly rted to the incident. It is also possible that they just had the information and didn''t want to go against the king."

    "Then, what are we going to do about this, Luis?" Alicia asked with a serious expression. Her previous irritation had already vanished as she understood the consequences if Luis'' doubts were proven correct. It would mean that their enemies would have another major family as their support.

    "The first thing we must do is to confirm whether Sera truly knows about it or not. I want you to have several conversations with her and try to incite her into revealing ws. Can you do that, Alicia?" Luis asked with some hesitation.

    Alicia understood his worries. She knew very well how hard it would be to control herself and act friendly with Sera.

    However, she also understood the importance of this task, and this was something she had to do. Which is why, firming her mind, she assured him. "Don''t worry Luis, I will do it. You just have to coax me afterwards if my mood turns bad."

    "Leave that to me," Luis said with a chuckle. "Also, I''ll be there to help you, so it shouldn''t be a problem."

    After hearing this, the corner of Alicia''s lips rose into a faint smile.

 Chapter 172: Why Not?

    After hearing this, the corner of Alicia''s lips rose into a faint smile, but a momentter she asked with a subtle expression. "Luis, what are we going to do if she does reveal some ws? I don''t think she will confess easily."

    Her worries weren''t unprecedented, because if they harmed or forced Sera. They risked alerting the Aiverson Royal family and the Dennis family. As Luis said before, it wasn''t the time to tear faces with them.

    Luis knit his brows for a moment, then answered her.

    "In that case, I''m going to prepare a stage for her. Then, luring her in. I''m going to let her perform under my illusion."

    Alicia''s eyes widened in surprise, and she asked with a confused expression. "Can''t we just do that in the first ce?" She thought that, if he was going to use illusion on Sera, anyway. Then what''s the point of putting so much effort into making her reveal ws?

    However, to her disappointment, Luis shook his head in denial. "Nope, we can''t do that. I must make the illusion as perfect as possible. Because if she finds outter that we put her under an illusion. It will create a lot ofmotion and trouble, as we can''t just silence her afterwards. So, it needs to be thorough."

    "As for why wait until she reveals any ws? If it ends up being just a coincidence and the Dennis family finds out about the illusion. It will create unnecessary tension between us and them. Now isn''t the time for our families to be in the limelight."

    Luis just gave her a vague answer. Not exining all the details and the contents of his ns. Otherwise, she would be overwhelmed by the details. So, it''s better to take it slow.

    From his exnation, Alicia was clear that Luis had already thought it through. So, she didn''t question him further and agreed. "I see. I didn''t think of that. Let''s do as you said." As she said this, her gaze towards him was full of admiration and she suggested with a smile. "Now, that''s settled. Should we exercise together?"

    "You sure? Weren''t you in a bad mood?"

    "I still am. So you better coax meter."

    *Sigh*

    "Hey! What''s that sigh for?!"

    "As you wish, my wife, since you are in a bad mood. How about we go have ice creamter?"

    "Hmm, that''s a good idea. It''s been a few days since I ate one." Alicia nodded with a smile.

    "Huh? Can''t you just create ice and eat it anytime?" Luis asked in confusion. His eyes were full of genuine curiosity.

    "�� That''s a good idea. How about I freeze your arms and eat them?"

    Her smile as she looked at his arms made Luis gulp in nervousness. "You know what! I think going to the vendor is a lot better."

    "You sure?" Alicia asked, raising one of her brows.

    "Of course, they also need to do business. As customers, we should give them our support." Luis said with righteous indignation.

    ***

    After teasing each other along with a bit of flirting, they both were in a better mood. So, they started focusing on their exercise.

    Luis was back under 5 times gravitational pressure as he started lifting weights and as for Alicia, she started practising her sword art under 3 times pressure.

    For the time being, Luis'' focus was more on increasing his physical strength rather than learning new spells. The reason was that he was preparing himself for the Martial Arts technique; he ns to acquire.

    While gritting his teeth, Luis lifted the weights and thought, ''Sera Dennis, although I don''t know why your personality is different. Why you are close to Alex this early? Why did you say such things to Alicia? Do or how you know the truth? You are an uncertain factor that makes me uneasy. So, whatever secrets you have. I''m going to uncover them all.''

    "Luis!"

    Alicia calling out to him broke his stream of thought.

    "What is it?"

    "I want to go practice my sword art inside your Pocket Space. Is it alright?"

    "Sure, no problem. Just keep your distance from myb."

    "I will."

    With that, Luis opened the big vortex and let Alicia go inside it. After she disappeared from his sight, he couldn''t help but joke.

    "Hehe, now I can proudly say that I keep my wife inside my pocket."

    "��"

    A momentter, he felt embarrassed by his own words. ''Fortunately, no one heard that.'' Relieved in his heart, he maintained hisposure and focused on his training.

    ***

    Time passed by and afterpleting their morning training. The two of them freshened themselves up and prepared to go out.

    "Now that I think about it. We forgot to have breakfast."

    "Huh? Didn''t you eat? I ate before you returned from your morning run."

    "�� I''ll eat something first, then we can go buy ice cream."

    "No problem," Alicia said while putting Ivy on her right shoulder.

    After Luis had breakfast, he took Alicia to an ice cream shop.

    "Huh? Luis, isn''t this the ice cream shop where you met Emily?"

    At her words, he nodded with a wry smile, then exined.

    "This ce is good. They have many varieties of ice cream. Although there are some weird vours. You can just ignore them."

    When she heard this, Alicia remembered the video of Emily scolding the ice cream seller and nodded in understanding.

    "Wee!"

    Just as the two of them entered the shop, the shopkeeper''s warm greeting sounded. However, the ice cream seller''s expression froze when his eyes fell on Luis, and a terrible memory resurfaced in his mind.

    Luis, on the other hand, didn''t notice the changes in the ice cream seller''s expression as he caught sight of a familiar figure standing near a counter reading the menu.

    ''Oh well, I didn''t expect to meet him here. Now this is going to be interesting.''

    A wide smirk appeared on his face as he observed the golden-haired boy in front of him. That boy was none other than, Thomas Aiverson.

 Chapter 173: Tricking Thomas!

    Luis stepped closer to Thomas and greeted him with a warm smile on his face. "Oh, hello! Price Thomas! What a coincidence meeting you here?"

    Thomas'' hands quivered as he clutched the menu upon hearing a familiar voice. He turned to find Luis, who was standing behind him, his face beaming with warmth, yet his warm approach didn''t make Thomas the least bit happy. Instead, it only stoked a raging anger within him.

    Memories of thest few days surged back, making it difficult for him to hold back his anger.

    "Luis Suarez!" Thomas called out his name while gritting his teeth and red at him with a fierce expression. He seemed as if he was just a step away from attacking him.

    Luis pretended not to notice Thomas'' anger as he continued chatting to him with a friendly smile. "How have you been? Did you find the subjects of your choice?"

    Thomas'' breathing became intense as he clenched his fists and said in a low voice, full of resentment.

    "Are you fucking mocking me?! How am I? My life''s been hell! I have be a subject of ridicule in everyone''s eyes because of you!"

    Because of his anger towards Luis and shift in his emotions. Some sparks of white mes appeared around Thomas'' fingers. At this moment, he wanted nothing more than to beat this bastard in front of him.

    To be honest. Although Thomas was angry at Luis, he didn''t have hatred for him or anything. He knew it was just apetition, and what Luis did was fair. So, he wouldn''t be unreasonable with him. However, he still wanted to express his displeasure because he was indeed angry.

    For Thomas'' resenting words, Luis just sighed and said with a helpless expression. "Prince Thomas, I have already exined this to Princess Urs. What happened to you was just an ident."

    "ident?!" When Thomas heard this term. His anger red up again. Of course, Urs had already told him about it. "You even ridiculed me after making me lose face! How dare you say it''s an ident?!"

    "Believe it or not, it''s the truth. I had already held back as much as I could. Further, holding back against you would have been disrespectful to you. So, I made that shot and for the rest, you know," Luis said with a shrug.

    "��" His attitude dumfounded Thomas.

    What made him further stunned was that Luis'' expression didn''t have the slightest trace of a lie. As if he wholeheartedly believed what he said was indeed the truth. For a moment, Thomas became confused about how to respond. He had also watched Luis''ter performance and knew in his heart that with his current strength; he wasn''t a match against him.

    Luis'' expression was sincere, while in his heart, he smirked, looking at Thomas'' pondering expression and struck while the iron''s hot.

    "Let''s put that matter aside for now, Prince Thomas. There''s something I wanted to ask you."

    "I have nothing to talk about with you!" With those words, Thomas turned around, not intending to talk with him any further. He just wanted to get away from him and calm himself down. However, Luis'' question made him reconsider his decision the next moment.

    "What''s your rtionship with Miss Rura Wayne?"

    In an instant, Thomas spun back, locking eyes with Luis, his expression darkening with a re as he asked, in a vignt manner, "Why do you want to know?"

    Luis raised his hands with a light smile. "You don''t have to be so cautious. I''m not interested in her. You already know that I am engaged, and I am a verymitted man."

    After hearing this, Thomas'' hostile eyes looking at Luis rxed their vignce a bit. At this point, he also noticed a ck-haired girl standing near them with an indifferent expression. Because his focus was on Luis all this time, he hadn''t noticed her before. Now that he saw her, it was a familiar face.

    "So, Miss Alicia is truly your fianc��e? Huh!"

    Alicia nced at Luis, who gave her a wink as a signal. So, she sighed in her heart and greeted Thomas with a polite expression. "Hello, Prince Thomas. I''m Alicia Raven, Luis'' fianc��e. Good to make your acquaintance."

    Despite her reluctance to engage in conversation with Thomas, she cooperated and performed with Luis, aware that Luis intends to pit Thomas.

    "Hello Miss Alicia, it''s nice to meet you too." Thomas gave her a perfunctory response and didn''t care to talk further. Because in his heart, something else was much more important. His attention turned back to Luis, as he wore a frown on his face and asked in doubt.

    "What''s your reason behind your previous question?"

    "Nothing much. I just heard a rumour that Prince Thomas is going to get engaged to Miss Rura."

    Thomas was stunned because he had thought about sending her an engagement proposal just a few days ago and hadn''t acted on it yet. ''How the hell did it already be a rumour? I didn''t tell anyone about this yet.''

    Luis continued. "Which is why I asked Miss Rura about this."

    After hearing this, Thomas became so excited that he didn''t care about other details and asked.

    "What was her answer?!"

    "�� Well, she said that it should be just a rumour, as you didn''t send her any proposal."

    Thomas thought about it and nodded. After all, that should be her normal response, but then he narrowed his eyes and asked with a suspicious gaze.

    "How are you familiar with her? Are you guys close enough to share such things?"

    To his stare, Luis responded with a calm expression and a faint smile on his face.

    "Alicia and Miss Rura are friends. Her t is also close to us. So, I am acquainted with her."

    At his answer, Thomas was a bit surprised that Rura and Alicia turned out to be friends. He didn''t doubt it, as it''s normal for Rura to have a friend or two in the upper circle. However, when he heard Luis say that they were neighbours. His eyes were full of resentment.

    ''If not for you. She would have been my neighbour, too.''

    "By the way, you haven''t answered me yet, Prince Thomas. What''s the rtionship between you two?" Luis asked, with a hint of curiosity mixed in tone.

    When Thomas heard his question, the resentment in his eyes disappeared and he answered with a proud expression.

    "We are going to get married in the future. You could say our current rtionship is more like lovers."

    ''Lovers? Hahaha!'' Luis'' lips twitched as he tried his best to suppress hisughter and said with a sincere expression.

    "Wow! I thought there was something like that! I pray that the rtionship between you two continues to stay as it is now for the rest of your lives."

    Thomas smiled hearing that, and to him, Luis became very pleasing to his eyes. All his anger towards him disappeared at that moment.

    "Luis, it seems I was mistaken before. From now on, you are my good friend."

    Alicia on the side looked at Thomas with a strange expression. ''Didn''t he understand the sarcasm behind Luis'' words?'' Luis had already exined to her the current rtionship between Thomas and Rura. That''s why she couldn''t help but wonder, ''What will Thomas think when he finds out Rura''s truest thoughts about him? Well, it''s not my concern whatever happens between them.''

    Luis'' smile brightened upon hearing him call himself a friend.

    "Since you have already called me your friend. Then it''s only rightful of me to share with you this news about a rumour that might concern you."

    Thomas was taken aback, and he couldn''t help but think. ''It''s only our third day at the academy. Are there already so many rumours? As expected, no matter where the ce. The power of gossip is terrifying.''

    Upon hearing that, this rumour concerns him. His eyes became serious, and he waited for Luis to continue speaking.

    "I heard there''s a talented silver-haired boy in the Fenrir ss who is very interested in Miss Rura."

    Thomas'' expression became somewhat gloomy, but he still responded with a scoff.

    "Just any random dude now ims to be interested in her. I should warn him to remember his ce."

    He didn''t doubt whether Luis was lying. After all, it''s not the case for the first time. There have been many simr cases before. Rura is beautiful, so she is bound to attract many pursuers. Until now, he had dealt with many such idiots and taught them their ce.

    So, he thought the situation to be the same this time. Until he heard Luis'' next words.

    "I am not too sure about that. This guy doesn''t seem to be any random dude."

    "What do you mean?"

    "You know of Miss Sera from the Dennis Family?"

    "Yeah, I know her. She is only a little inferior to Rura in terms of beauty."

    Luis'' lips twitched at his statement. However, he didn''t care about it and said something that made Thomas'' eyes widen.

    "That Miss Sera seems to be very interested in that boy. Now, do you think he is just some random guy?"

    Thomas understood the implied meaning behind Luis'' words and his expression became grave.

    "No, I must see with my own eyes who is this guy that dares to covet my girlfriend! What''s his name, Luis?!"

    Luis also did not hide it and said with a serious expression. "Alex Stain."

 Chapter 174: The Drama!

    After purchasing the ice cream of their choice, Luis and Alicia were now on their way back to the dorm.

    "Lily, deal with the security cams inside the ice cream shop."

    {Should I erase the recordings?}

    "No, just remove the audio."

    {Okay, Master.}

    "Hmm," Luis nodded, then focused on eating the ice cream in his hand.

    After their previous conversation, Thomas thanked Luis and left the shop looking quite pissed as he kept murmuring Alex''s name.

    "He didn''t even buy an ice cream. Maybe he just came to get familiar with the menu to invite Rurater." Luis mumbled while shaking his head with a chuckle. He was interested to see if the development between Alex and Thomas would follow the game''s plot or not.

    ''I wonder how Thomas will create trouble for Alex. With my warning, I am sure he will be cautious.'' Right when he was musing about this. He heard Alicia say. "I don''t understand."

    Luis turned to look at the frowning Alicia beside him and smiled. "Eat your ice cream or it will melt."

    Alicia''s eyes didn''t look away from him, and using her ice element, she froze the melting ice cream in her hand. Luis'' eyes widened in surprise, then he became envious. ''I wish I had an ice affinity, too.''

    Not caring about Luis'' expression, Alicia asked her question. "I can understand you had that conversation with ''him'' to pressurize ''her''. However, why did you involve the ''second guy''?"

    Luis knew she was going to ask this question. After all, he hadn''t told her anything about Alex Stain. So, he sighed and gestured towards their surroundings. "We are about to reach the dorm. I will exin once we are back."

    "Hmm, good." Alicia nodded, then ate the ice cream with a blissful expression.

    ***

    On the other side. After separating from Luis and Alicia. Thomas came back to the academy. He canceled his n to skip sses today and went straight to ss (1-5).

    Compared to the elite sses, the design of the ssroom of normal sses is straight out ordinary. Even the doors aren''t as fancy as the elite sses.

    The ss instructor of the ss (1-5) was a 5-Star Master Rank. Just a step away from King Rank. When he saw Thomasing in, his eyes became cold, and he called out his name in a stern voice.

    "Student Thomas Aiverson!"

    "Yes, sir?" Thomas''s steps paused as he looked at the Professor with a confused expression.

    Professor''s lips twitched. "Don''t you know skipping sses without permission will deduct Merit Points?!"

    "I know," Thomas admitted. "Here, take it. How many merit points is it?" He raised his left hand and tapped on his mana bracelet.

    Professor deadpanned. Then said with a mocking expression. "10,000 Merit Points."

    Thomas nodded and sent the merit points. When the professor received the notification on his mana bracelet, he raised his brows with a surprised expression and asked in doubt. "Did you exchange some resources for Merit Points in the exchange centre?"

    "So, what if I did? It''s not against the rules." Thomas shrugged and made his way towards his seat.

    His response made Professor very displeased. However, since Thomas had already used the loophole. He didn''t continue to press this matter and left the ssroom. His ss was over already, and it was now the break time.

    Thomas took a seat that was in the middle row. Then called out the name of the scrawny boy sitting beside him. "Sid."

    "Yes, Prince?"

    "Do you know someone named Alex Stain from Fenrir ss?"

    "That silver-haired boy?" Sid raised his brow with a thoughtful expression, then said. "No, I only know that he ranked 19th in the entrance examination."

    "I see," Thomas mumbled with a frown.

    Seeing Thomas so deep in thought, Sid narrowed his eyes and asked. "Prince, why are you asking about him? Did he offend you?"

    Thomas nodded.

    Sid''s eyes widened, and he suggested with a fawning expression. "Then should we go teach him a lesson?"

    Thomas shook his head. "Let''s wait for now. That guy doesn''t seem to be simple." Luis knows his identity well, and regardless of it, he still cautioned him. Which is why he didn''t take Luis'' warning lightly.

    ''No, I can''t sit around and do nothing! I should confirm it with my own eyes!'' Thomas was anxious at the thought of Alex and Rura getting close to each other and he couldn''t calm down.

    "Follow me, Sid."

    "Where Prince?"

    "To the Fenrir ss."

    ***

    Just as Luis and Alicia came back to the t. Lily''s voice sounded.

    {Master, the target is on the move. His destination is Fenrir ss.}

    "As expected, he couldn''t stay still." Luis sneered and tapped on his mana bracelet, opening the message section.

    "What are you doing, Luis?" Alicia asked, containing curiosity in her tone.

    "Oh, I am sending Rura a message. Just wait and watch. Lily, show us the video feed from the button drone I left on Thomas."

    {As you wish.}

    They sat on the couch and the next second, a hologram screen appeared in front of them, and they started watching the video feed with interest.

    Luis took out a packet of snacks from his Pocket Space and ate it with relish. ''Hehe, now the drama starts!'' He felt a nudge on his side, so he turned to look at Alicia, who raised her hand towards him as if asking for something. She was using her other hand to rub Ivy''s back.

    ''Does she?'' He nodded in understanding, then shed a charming smile at her. He grabbed her soft hand, crossed his fingers with hers, and lightly scratched her palm with his thumb.

    All his actions were smooth and done in a matter of a second.

    Alicia was stunned for a few seconds, then her expression became dark, and she said with an annoyed expression.

    "I was asking for snacks!"

    "��" The thick-skinned Luis didn''t show any embarrassment and nodded with a calm expression. "I know, but since your hands are busy, let me feed you."

    Alicia looked at her left hand that was in his grasp and became speechless. ''Is this called being busy?'' Though she thought so. She had noints and asked in a spoiled manner.

    "Then feed me~"

 Chapter 175: Excited Emily!

    Inside Fenrir ss.

    Rura was just about to leave her ssroom since it was a break. However, right then, she received a message from Luis asking her for a favor.

    [Miss Rura, can you please do me a favor? There''s a silver-haired guy in your ss named Alex Stain. Can you get me his contact details? I have some urgent business with him. But I am on leave today. You are the only person I trust and know in your ss. Pretty please. I''ll treat you to a mealter.]

    For this small favor, she didn''t reject him, but sent back a message with a smile on her face.

    [Will it just be the two of us for that meal?]

    [No, my fianc��e will be with us, too. Is that not, okay?]

    [If you hadn''t invited her, then I would have rejected you. Send me the time and ceter. I am also interested in meeting with your fianc��e. It will be a wonderful opportunity for us to get acquainted.]

    [Of course!]

    Rura smiled, then turned off her mana bracelet and scanned her ssroom.

    ''It should be him.'' She locked her gaze on the only silver-haired of her ss and started walking towards him.

    ---

    *Sigh*

    ''When will these introductory sses end? It''s so annoying. I just want to get started with the subjects of my choice.''

    Emily leaned on her table with an exhausted expression and happened to see Rura, who was walking towards Alex.

    ''Did they know each other?'' She thought and didn''t care further.

    However, as she inadvertently nced towards the entrance of their ssroom. She saw a golden-haired boy standing there with an ugly expression on his face.

    ''What''s up with this One-Hit Prince? Did someone make him eat shit or what?''

    She wanted to go over and ask, but then she remembered something. ''Wait! If I am not wrong, then isn''t he after Rura?!''

    As soon as she thought of this, her eyes widened in realization, and right that instant she turned back to see Rura talking with Alex.

    ''Oh my! Oh my! What am I witnessing? Isn''t this a live NTR scene?!''

    Emily was so excited that she turned on the camera function of her mana bracelet and clicked several photos of the cheated guy.

    Thomas didn''t care or even notice that someone was clicking pictures of him. At this moment, his mind was in a mess.

    ''Rura asked for his contact.''

    ''Luis was right. This guy is dangerous.''

    ''I must do something.''

    ''I can''t let Rura be charmed by him. I must protect her.''

    After giving onest nce at Rura, Thomas turned back and left.

    ''Alex Stain! You are going to regret coveting my girl!''

    ***

    Alex, who had no idea that he had just be the number one enemy of the second prince of the Aiverson Empire, looked at the red-haired beauty in front of him with a surprised expression.

    "You want my contact?"

    Upon seeing that he had misunderstood her, Rura waved to hand and rified.

    "No, not me. A friend of mine has some business with you. They wanted to contact you, so let me ask for it."

    Alex felt some disappointment that it wasn''t her who wanted his contact. However, he showed her a serious expression and nodded in understanding.

    "I see."

    Rura also noticed the momentary trace of disappointment on Alex''s face. This made her think that the boy in front of her was just like the other boys who were attracted to her.

    ''I don''t see what business Luis can have with him. Well, it''s not my ce to ask. Since it was just a small favour, I''ll help him this once.''

    After getting his contact details, Rura didn''t stay there any longer and left her ss.

    Emily, who saw everything from the start, became disappointed. ''So, it wasn''t an NTR scene�� Tsk!'' With a sour mood, she turned around, expecting to see a delighted expression on the cheated guy''s face. ''Huh? Did he leave?''

    She nced around but couldn''t find the figure of Thomas. ''Wait! Did he see everything or not? Does he know it was a misunderstanding on his part?''

    ''If not, then isn''t this�� a misunderstanding NTR scene?!''

    ''Damn! This is even more interesting!''

    ***

    Inside Luis'' t.

    "I feel some pity looking at his expression," Alicia said while munching on the snacks Luis fed her.

    Luis rolled his eyes and said, "Even Rura wouldn''t pity him. What are you pitying him for?"

    "Still, that scene was heartbreaking," Alicia said with a sigh and opened her mouth towards him, signaling him to feed her more.

    "��" Luis'' lips twitched. Because Alicia''s reaction at this moment wasn''t of a human sympathizing with another human, but rather a viewermenting on a drama. ''Why do I have a feeling that Alicia is going to learn Mom''s bad habit?''

    "Luis, now that the show is over. Can you tell me some spoilers�� I mean, exin what you get by doing all this?"

    ''Spoilers?'' Luis stared at her for a few seconds with a speechless expression. Then exined. "I have several reasons for doing this. The first and the main reason is to get Rura on our side."

    "Will an engagement proposal from Thomas be enough to bring her to our side?" Alicia asked.

    "Of course not. That is just to speed up the process." Luis shook his head and continued. "Remember what I told you before? Rura is developing a special form that she believes will change her fate."

    "Yeah, which I still don''t understand. How will it happen?"

    "�� That is something you can get to know from herter."

    "Tell me, Luis, you are interested in the form she is developing, right?"

    "�� Yeah."

    "Is it that valuable?" Alicia asked while raising her brows.

    "It is," Luis said with a serious expression.

    "Hmm, I see... Can you tell me what kind of form she is making?" Alicia asked with some hesitation in her voice. She just asked out of curiosity, even if Luis didn''t tell her she was fine with it.

    However, to her surprise, Luis nodded and said with a serious expression. "It''s a Multiplier Potion!"

 Chapter 176: Ruras Story!

    After Luis'' exnation of Multiplier Potion, Alicia''s eyes widened in shock and her mouth agape.

    "Twice the growth in cultivation?! Then, coupled with your gravity training, wouldn''t the growth be even more astounding?!"

    Upon seeing him nod, Alicia couldn''t help but take a deep breath in amazement. Then nodded in understanding.

    "No wonder you want her to be on our side so much. If she can create something so amazing, like a Multiplier Potion, her talent is iparable."

    "Yeah, but her form is still iplete. Which is why now is the perfect time for us to bring her to our side," Luis said, while leaning on the couch a little and because of his movement unknowingly, his hand pulled Alicia closer to his side.

    Alicia observed him with a t expression but didn''t resist his ''inadvertent'' actions and leaned against him, finding afortable position. Then she started asking all her doubts.

    "What if she fails? Won''t our efforts be in vain? Can''t we just recruit her after shepletes her form? Then there will be no risk involved."

    Luis smiled upon finding no resistance from her and became even bolder, wrapping his hand around her and closing her in his embrace. Then exined to her in a patient tone.

    "You are thinking things too simply, Alicia. Once her form isplete and the newses out. All the powerful organizations and major forces wille after Rura like hawks. Some with the purpose of recruiting and others to exploit her. Whatever happens, we are bound to face a lot ofpetition in such a situation. That''s why recruiting her in advance is necessary."

    "Next, even if she fails. It wouldn''t be too big of a loss for us to recruit an alchemist with S-grade talent, right?"

    After hearing this, Alicia also realized things much more clearly and agreed with his decision to recruit her in advance.

    "Even afterpleting her form, she is bound to face so much risk and now you are going to put even more pressure on her using Thomas." Alicia sighed, then stretched her head to look at him and smirked with a yful expression. "Your actions are so much like a scheming viin attacking an innocent girl who is struggling hard to be independent."

    When he heard this, dark lines appeared on his forehead, and he retorted. "I am not a viin, okay?! If it''s just recruiting her, I still have many ways. However, what I want is herplete loyalty."

    Alicia stopped teasing him and said with a serious expression. "I find it hard to achieve."

    Luis nodded, knowing very well why Alicia would say this. So, he said with a calm expression. "ording to her personality analysis, done by Lily. Helping her at her worst time and making her indebted to us is the best way to get her loyalty in the primary phase. Then we can use other means to ensure her loyalty."

    "You already have it all nned, huh?" Alicia said in surprise. Then she thought of something and asked. "By the way, what''s her situation with the Wayne family? Before you told me she wanted to escape from that family, but why?"

    "Right, I haven''t told you anything about her situation yet, have I? Let''s start from the beginning." Luis uttered with a thoughtful expression. Then he started his exnation.

    ***

    The Wayne Family has been the number one supporter of the Aiverson Royal Family. Since the founding of the Aiverson Empire, a century ago.

    Whether it''s the former ''Emperor'' or the present ''King''. The Wayne Family has been loyal to them for generations.

    The current head of the Wayne family, Steve Wayne, had two wives. Martha and Shaily. Each had two children.

    Martha''s marriage to Steve was arranged by their respective families, and she became Steve''s first wife. However, in Steve''s heart, his value for Martha was always lower than Shaily, the woman he loved and had a love marriage with.

    She lived in the Wayne family like a concubine without enjoying the privileges that she should receive as the first wife.

    When Martha had a son, she expected her firstborn son to be the next rightful heir of the Wayne family. However, it all ended up being her delusions. Her husband never cared about her child and showered all his love on the child of Shaily, who was bornter.

    Because of theck of care and attention from her husband, she lived under depression. Which also made her health deteriorate. A few yearster, when she had her second child. Martha, who was already sick, died at the time of childbirth and the child who was born this time was Rura.

    Even after her mother''s death, Rura''s father never gave them the fatherly love and attention they deserved. It was as if he became free from a burden. Stevepletely neglected Rura and her brother, Chris. While caring about his second wife and her half-siblings more.

    From infancy to childhood, Rura was raised by her brother, Chris, and the kind maids.

    ***

    "I never imagined that Rura''s upbringing was soplicated. Does that mean she grew up without experiencing parental affection?"

    Alicia took a deep breath and sighed. ''She is even more unlucky than me.'' When shepared her dad with Rura''s dad. She couldn''t help but scold. "That kind of scum doesn''t deserve to be a father!"

    "Hehe, you are concluding too early." Luis sneered.

    "There''s more?" Alicia knit her brows.

    Luis nodded and continued.

    ***

    The Wayne family and the Aiverson Royal family have a long tradition going on. From each generation, the Wayne family sends one of their sons who enters his teenage years to train and serve under the Aiverson Royal family.

    That boy would voluntarily sever all his familial ties and undergo brainwashing, living solely to serve under the king and aiming to be their sharpest sword.

    As per the normal traditions, it should have been the turn of Shaily''s son in this generation. However, Steve, who didn''t care about his dead first wife''s children, was more than d enough to send Chris, his firstborn, to the royal family.

    With this, the thirteen-year-old Chris officially lost his right to be the next heir and had to leave the seven-year-old Rura alone.

    After being separated from her brother, Rura had lost the only person who could give her the familial love she yearned for.

    In her attempts to distract herself from this loneliness, Rura tried various things and finally found herself attracted to Alchemy.

    Then, for the next nine years, Rura lived under the love and the care of maids while immersing herself in Alchemy, as that was the only thing, she could find sce in.

    After all these years, the only feeling she had for her so-called family was indifference. That is until she found that her so-called dad ns to use her as a chip into an arranged marriage in exchange for benefits.

    She didn''t want that. Which was why she was now trying her best to escape from that family of hers.

    ***

    "��" Alicia was silent as she pressed her lips with a deep expression.

    A few secondster, she looked at Luis and said with a firm expression. "Luis, I want to help her."

    "You sure? It''s not our business to meddle in."

    "Hmph, less nonsense. I know you also want to help her."

    "Hehe, you got me. So, now do you think a person like her deserves your genuine friendship?"

    "If what you said is true. Then I think it''s possible."

    "Good, but don''t forget. Our primary purpose is still to recruit her and for thetter things we can do in due time."

    "Yeah, I know," Alicia said with a smile. Then she thought of something and asked, "So now you n to support her when Thomas sends her family an engagement proposal? In desperation, she will readily agree to be your subordinate."

    "Not quite." Luis shook his head and said, "I can''t answer you now, but you will understand everything when you see it with your own eyes."

    "Fine!" Alicia pouted at his rejection and asked, "What do I have to do?"

    "You just have to get close to her and be good friends."

    "That''s it?"

    "That''s it." Luis nodded in affirmation.

    "Hmm, I see." Alicia nodded and asked thest question that''s been bugging her. "Since that''s over, can you now tell me why you involved the student named Alex Stain in all this?"

    ***

    Quiz: Why is the current ruler of the Aiverson Empire a King, rather than an Emperor?

    1) The former emperor is alive.

    2) The emperor system was abolished.

    3) The king doesn''t have full control over the Aiverson Empire

    4) Other reasons.

 Chapter 177: Trust Issues!

    When Luis heard her question, he sighed and said in a low voice. "I have a personal issue with him."

    "Hmm��" Since he didn''t give her a direct answer, Alicia didn''t probe him about it. Instead, just asked a simple question. "So, is he our enemy?"

    "Not yet." Luis shook his head and said in a deep voice. "For now, you can regard him as less than enemies but more than strangers."

    "I understand." Alicia nodded with a serious expression. Though she was very curious about the feud between them. She could only suppress her curiosity until Luis told her. Right now, her mind came to one simple conclusion. ''Luis'' enemy is my enemy.''

    ***

    After their chat was over, Luis and Alicia went inside the Pocket Space. Where Luis worked in hisb, giving Magnus Gloves some finishing touches. While Alicia practised her sword art.

    Immersed in their work. It was already time for lunch.

    "Let''s go, Luis."

    "It will take me some time. You go ahead."

    "Tell me what you want to eat. I''ll bring it for you here."

    "You can choose for me."

    "Okay, then."

    With those words, Alicia left the pocket space through the vortex he opened for her.

    A few minutester, Luis left his work desk. "Whew, it''s over. The performance of Magnus Gloves has improved a lotpared to before."

    {Congrattions! Master!} Lily''s cheerful voice sounded and her hologram in a researcher coat danced around happily.

    Luis shook his head with a in expression and said, "There''s nothing to be happy about, Lily. Although the performance has improved, it''s still far from my satisfaction. Besides, our other projects still haven''t produced any results."

    {Um��} When talking about this, Lily couldn''t help but feel embarrassed. {I am ashamed, Master!}

    "Don''t fret over it, we just don''t have the technology and right research direction. Just keep working on it. Eventually, we will find a way."

    {Yes Master!} Lily once again cheered up and vigorously nodded her head. {By the way Master, Miss Rura has sent the contact of the person you asked for. What shall I do about it?}

    "Oh, right! I almost forgot! Hmm�� just send him a message asking whether he knows the current whereabouts of Jane White." Luis said with a thoughtful expression.

    Jane White was an Overlord Rank mercenary, not affiliated with anyone doing missions all over the world. Before Alex came to the academy, she was the one who saved him from mortal danger, and he apanied her for a few days until he recovered.

    If it goes ording to the game story, she also became Alex''s teacher outside of the academy and he learned a lot of things from her.

    {Master! Sister Alicia is back.}

    Luis opened the vortex, and Alicia''s figure appeared inside the Pocket Space. Then the two of them had lunch together and chatted about casual things.

    "Luis, when are you going to invite Rura for a meal?"

    "I was thinking of tonight. The earlier, the better. What do you think?"

    "Of course, no problem."

    At her approval, Luis sent Rura a message confirming if she was avable tonight.

    [Sure, just send me the time.]

    Then Lily reserved a table for the three of them in a popr restaurant in Academy City, and Luis sent Rura the details about the time and ce.

    "Now that we still have a lot of time before the dinner. I''m going to train." Alicia said, then got up to go change into a training suit.

    "I''ll apany you too." Luis followed suit.

    However, right then, the two of them received a message at the same time.

    "Huh? It''s that bitch! What is she calling us to her office for?" Alicia''s expression became displeased when she saw it was Olivia.

    "It''s probably for the reward and��"

    "And?" Alicia raised her brows.

    "To ept us as her disciples." Luispleted the sentence with a yawn.

    "��" Alicia''s expression became strange. "For real?"

    "I think so."

    They stared at each other for a few seconds and couldn''t help but chuckle.

    ***

    When Luis and Alicia came out of the dorm. They met Diana, who was also on her way to Olivia''s office. So, they went to the academy together.

    Upon arriving in front of Olivia''s office, Luis was about to knock. However, a sharp voice sounded.

    "Come in!"

    When the trio entered the familiar office. They saw two women inside. One was Professor Olivia, who had a small frown on her face, and another was an unfamiliar long ck-haired woman wearing sses.

    "I am Professor Hena. This time, you are all meeting with my actual body." Hena introduced herself. Then looked at Luis with narrowed eyes. "Didn''t you admire me a lot? Don''t you even recognize me?"

    To her question, Luis shook his head with a calm expression. "Of course not, Professor! I recognized you at first nce. It''s just that I was so happy that I became stunned when I saw my idol."

    After hearing his words, Hena''s lips curled upwards and her originally low mood also improved a lot. She was about to say something, but Olivia interrupted her.

    "Enough Hena! You can talk about this with themter. Let''s get to what I called them here for."

    She then stared at Luis and the others; her eyes fixed on Luis.

    "If I remember right. I had already exined the rewards to you all before the mission started. Now, what do you mean by asking for more from Professor Hena?!" she asked in a sharp tone, demanding an answer.

    "��"

    The entire office became silent, and Luis nced at Hena, who hung her head low. He sighed, understanding what had happened before they came here. It must be that Hena got scolded by Olivia for being easily tricked by a student.

    "What are you looking at her for?! She won''t help now! Don''t raise your expectations!" Olivia sneered.

    Luis had a gentle smile on his face, but his eyes looking at her were indifferent. He noticed Alicia was getting angry, so he grabbed her hand and gestured to her to calm down.

    "You misunderstood us, Professor. After our experience on the mission, I don''t dare to have any expectations from either of you," he said while approaching Olivia with a calm smile.

    Then faced her, without backing down at all, and said with a look of indifference. "I just hope that. Unlike you, Professor Hena won''t cause trouble for us."

    Olivia was silent as she red at him, contemting whether to punch him or not.

    Hearing Luis'' words, Hena raised to head with a confused expression, then asked with a frown. "What do you mean by trouble, Luis? Aren''t you being a bit too excessive with your words? We never said we won''t give you the rewards I promised. Olivia was just a little angry because I made such a promise without consulting her."

    Luis'' expression was still calm and icy as he shook his head. "It''s not about the rewards, Professor Hena."

    "Then what?" Hena asked, taken aback by his answer.

    "�� Why don''t you see for yourself?" With those words, Luis took out a projection device and activated it in front of her.

    Hena was confused and wanted to ask what he wanted to show. However, the screen on the hologram had already started. So, she waited for the video to start ying.

    When the video started. Everyone saw Olivia''s figure disyed in the video. Olivia also realized what this video was about, and her expression became subtle. She nced at Luis, deep in thought. No one knows what she was thinking.

    [Did they receive your signal?]

    [H-How?!]

    [�� S-Rank.]

    [��]

    [Hmm, should I tell Luis and the others or not?]

    [Well, there''s no point, since they are already hurrying over. It doesn''t make much of a difference.]

    After, the video ended. Olivia looked at Luis with a neutral expression and asked, "Why did you leave your Button Drone on them? Didn''t you ask me to handle them?"

    "You!" To her question, Alicia became so angry that it became difficult for her to hold back. Not only apologizing for her actions but also questioning Luis.

    "Calm down, Alicia."

    Luis raised his hand to stop her, then answered Olivia''s question.

    "It''s simple, Professor. I have some trust issues. So, even if I have confidence in your strength. I can''t help but be cautious at every turn."

    At his answer, Olivia went silent, and memories of her past resurfaced in her mind. ''Trust issues, huh? Maybe if I had been as cautious as him. That incident wouldn''t have happened.''

    Right then, a scream full of rage sounded inside the office, breaking the formerly tranquil atmosphere.

    "What the hell was that, Olivia?! Are you stupid? How could you do that?!" Hena''s breathing became intense as she stepped towards her with a fierce expression. "How could you hide such a piece of important information?!"

    From that video, she understood in an instant what it was about. However, she had no idea that Olivia hid this information from Luis and the others.

    At this moment, Hena was furious.

 Chapter 178: Terrible Experiences?!

    "No, I shouldn''t have epted your request in the first ce. Not only did you stop me from saving the kids to test your students, but you even created trouble for them."

    The more Hena spoke, the angrier she became. Especially when she saw Olivia standing there, silent.

    "��"

    "Don''t you have anything to say about this?"

    "��"

    To Hena''s questions, Olivia didn''t say a word in response. Instead, she turned her head to look out of the office window and uttered in a daze.

    "�� Hena, can you please take them to get their rewards? I want to be left alone for some time."

    "What?! Don''t evade the topic, Olivia! This time you went too far!"

    Olivia brought her gaze back to Hena and pleaded in an emotionless voice. "Hena�� Please."

    Hena wanted to continue, but when she saw Olivia state at this moment, she knew that the memories of her past must have resurfaced in her mind. This had happened a lot of times before, so Hena was aware of it. However, this time, she felt very displeased with Olivia and didn''t intend to let this matter go.

    "All right! But this isn''t over yet!"

    "��" Olivia nodded with a nk expression.

    Hena nced at Luis and the others, and her expression becameplicated. "Follow me." With those words, she pushed open the office door and headed out.

    Luis took back the projection device, and without even giving a nce at Olivia, he followed behind Hena. So did Alicia and Diana.

    Now the only person left inside the office was Olivia, who was gazing at the door with a lost expression and then shifted her gaze to the photo frame on her work desk.

    ***

    On the other side, aftering out of Olivia''s office, followed by the trio. Hena was silent for a few seconds, then took a deep breath to calm herself down.

    When she controlled Muse''s body before, she was the one who contacted the agents on the order of the traffickers'' leader. When they couldn''t reach them, it became a distress signal, and the ship sailed early because of it.

    Hena, who was working undercover, had sent back that news to Olivia and had thought that she would have shared it with Luis and the others. Otherwise, how could they have caught up on time?

    However, only now did she understand that what she had thought didn''t happen. Rather, her willful friend hid that information from her students. If it weren''t for Luis taking precautions, they would have never known about it.

    She turned back to face the three students behind her and said with some embarrassment.

    "I''m sorry about that. I had no idea she did such a thing."

    Luis shook his head and said with a faint smile. "You don''t have to apologize, Professor Hena. When you aren''t even the one at fault."

    "Yeah, Professor Hena. You are not to be med for her mistake." Alicia, beside Luis, also added with a soft smile on her face.

    Unlike the egoist Professor Olivia. For this, Professor Hena, who was even willing to apologize on behalf of others. Alicia had quite a favourable opinion.

    "What they said," Diana also nodded alongside them.

    After hearing their words, Hena exhaled a sigh and tried to defend Olivia a bit so that they wouldn''t end up hating her. She didn''t want their rtionship to be tense because of this incident. After all, they are going to see each other at least until graduation.

    "Actually, Olivia wasn''t always like that. Some terrible things happened in the past that affected her quite a bit. I hope you all understand."

    "��"

    Her words only received silence as a response. Which made her feel quite wrong. ''Did I say something bad?''

    Upon seeing the confused expression on Hena''s face, Luis sighed.

    "Professor, every one of us here has had our fair share of terrible experiences," he said with an emotionless expression.

    He had experienced death twice. Once as Ethan, who died of terminal illness and the other from thest memory of the previous Luis. If being hacked to death is not a terrible experience. Then he can only doubt the meaning of the word'' terrible.

    Alicia had witnessed her mother being killed along with all the workers at their mansion. The experience of the sole survivor in a massacre. The trauma and horror felt by that little girl. Isn''t that terrible?

    Since her birth, her n has ostracized Diana. After oppressing her for more than a decade, they kicked her out of the n once her mother died. Then she lived in nearby towns, scrounging for food and fighting with the people of the slums, who wanted to force her.

    Later, an old martial artist took pity on her, and after witnessing her talent for fighting, he decided to teach her. He gave her knowledge about various things and trained her foundation. After he died, Diana left her country and came to Oracle Academy. If not for that old martial artist, Diana would never have qualified to enter the number one academy of Alnaur.

    Is her experience not terrible? However, she is still naively looking for opponents to fight with a cheerful grin.

    He stared at Hena and continued. "No matter our experiences, it doesn''t mean that we are going to let it affect the people unrted to it."

    "��" Hena pressed her lips and drooped her eyshes. Though she had no idea what kind of terrible things, the students in front of her had experienced. From their expressions, she had a feeling it must be quite serious.

    Her voice wavered, and she said with little confidence. "Maybe she just needs a little more time toe out of it."

    Luis didn''t care about her unsure words and said with seriousness.

    "If she can''te out of an incident from her past. Then she shouldn''t take on tasks that affect the safety of hundreds of people. Besides, whatever experience she had, isn''t an excuse for what she did. She just wanted to fulfill her ego and make us beg for her help. Though, I''m not sure why, that is. You should know it better professor, after all, you are her friend. Right?"

    After hearing his words, Hena could only lower her head with a bitter expression. Because she knows what Luis said was right and no matter what she says, what Olivia did was indeed wrong, and she can''t do anything about it.

    "Let''s put this matter aside for now and go get your rewards." She said, to which everyone agreed with a nod.

    Seeing their indifferent expressions, Hena sighed.

    ''I just hope everything works out well. Sigh�� Why did you have to do that Olivia? If you keep being like this, then you are going to ruin everything?''

    She shook her head to stop thinking about it and increased her pace, moving towards the exchange centre. Though fast, her pace wasn''t too fast, as Luis and the others could easily keep up with her.

    ***

    "Wee!"

    Upon entering the exchange centre, a loud voice greeted them. When Luis heard the familiar voice, he nced at the familiar old man walking in their direction with a businessman-like smile on his face, as his long-braided beard swung like a pendulum. Once again, catching Luis'' attention.

    Not only Luis, but Alicia and Diana also stared at his unique beard with interest.

    "Hello! Mr. Zeth!" Hena greeted him with a polite smile. After all, Zeth was her elder and her senior at work.

    "Oh, it''s you, little Hena. What a pleasant surprise?" Zeth said with a smile.

    Hina pouted, feeling embarrassed being called like that in front of students.

    "I have told you many times before. Please don''t call me that. I am not a kid anymore. I am already a mature woman."

    "Yeah, yeah, you have grown up. Anyway, what are you here for?" Zeth said, waving his hands, expressing that he understood.

    When she saw his actions, Hena knew he ignored herints once again. Though depressed, she could only let it be and exin the purpose of her visit.

    "I came here to get some rewards for these students." She said while gesturing her hand behind.

    Zeth had already noticed the three students following Hena. However, since he was conversing with Hena, he didn''t observe them carefully. Now that he did, it turns out there was a familiar figure among them.

    "Huh? Kid! You are here too!" Zeth said with a surprised expression and a wide smile hung up on his face.

    "Hello! Uncle Zeth!" Luis greeted him with a smile while giving him a curt bow.

    "Hahaha, so you did fulfil your promise toe here often. At that time, I thought you were just being perfunctory." Zeth let out a joyousugh, looking very pleased by Luis'' arrival.

    The others looked at the two of them with surprised expressions. Alicia knew that Luis had visited the exchange centre before, but she had no idea that he had such a good rtionship with Mr. Zeth. Whoever he is.

 Chapter 179: Dianas Choice!

    Hena raised her brow, not expecting Luis to have such a good rtionship with Mr. Zeth just after a few days of entering the academy.

    "Mr. Zeth, are you acquainted with student Luis?" she asked, even though it was obvious from a nce.

    Zeth patted Luis on the back and, facing Hena, said with a grin, "Yes, he is a very interesting kid. Is he your student, little Hena?"

    His praise for Luis surprised Hena, but then her lips twitched when she heard histter sentence. She could only sigh, as she knew thatining about it was going to be pointless. So, with a helpless expression, she answered his question.

    "All three of them are students from the Leviathan ss. Olivia is their instructor."

    "So, they are Olivia''s students." Zeth nodded with a gentle smile, looking like a kind, neighbourly uncle.

    "Why do you call Olivia by her name when you call me little Hena? Both of us are of the same age." Hena asked with some grievance.

    If it was just being treated as a kid, she could still hold back. However, wouldn''t it be unfair to her if her friend received better treatment?

    Zeth pretended not to hear her question and shifted the topic.

    "You said something about rewards? What did they do? Isn''t it only their third day?" His voice carried a hint of curiosity and surprise.

    Hena didn''t hide it. "Remember the urgent mission yesterday?"

    "The one which you and Olivia epted together. That D-Level mission from the Temar Kingdom?" Zeth said with a thoughtful expression.

    Although he didn''t show it on his face, deep inside his heart, he was quite concerned about this case. Because the roots of this case were rted to the political matters of the Temar Kingdom. Whichplicates things.

    "Yeah, to be honest, we were just the spectators the entire time. It''s these students who solved the entire case and saved all the kids." When Hena said this, her voice was full of pride and there was a heartfelt smile on her face.

    "Oh? Did they? They have just joined the academy and are already doing missions. Haha, I didn''t expect the fresher students this year to be so talented and fierce." Zena nced at all three of them, his eyes pausing at Alicia for a moment. ''She looks familiar for some reason. Is it the same as Luis brat?'' He nned to ask about it at ater opportunity.

    "Yeah, they truly are talented." Hena praised, but thinking of what happened earlier, she became a little embarrassed.

    "So, this time you came here to give them their mission rewards. Right?" With a look of understanding, Zeth went up to the counter and tapped on his twice as a hologram lit up. "Select the rewards you want to give them. After you are done, I''ll bring them to you." He said while gesturing at Hena toe forward.

    Hena didn''t waste any time and with skilful hand movements, she turned on the Skill book menu section. Then, with another wave of her hand, the screen separated into three.

    "Select the Skill book you want. Remember one per person and it can only be up to B rank."

    Her words didn''t cause much of a reaction from the three of them, but Zeth became surprised.

    "Little Hena, isn''t that too much of a reward for a D-Level mission?"

    "Yeah, but they solved the entire mission without our help and with no information provided. So, they deserve this much." After speaking, she immediately realized that she had made a mistake. ''Ops, I misspoke!''

    Sure enough, the next second, she found Zeth staring at her with a deep expression.

    "What do you mean by no help'' and no information?" he asked, his voice full of suspicion. "Care to exin?"

    Hena scratched the back of her head in embarrassment. Then, with an awkward expression, she exined the entire situation.

    By the time her exnation was over, Zeth''s face was full of anger. However, as an elder, with a lot of experience. He maintained hisposure and said to her with an expression full of displeasure. "Bring Olivia with you hereter."

    Hena nodded with a resigning expression. She knew they were going to be scoldedter. However, what can she do about it? After all, they are indeed wrong.

    While Luis and Alicia were browsing through the list of Skill Books, Diana came up to Hena and asked, "Professor, instead of a skill, I want to learn Professor Olivia''s movement technique as a reward. Is that okay?"

    When Diana asked her question, Hena wasn''t surprised since Olivia had already informed her about this matter. So, she answered her as per how they had discussed in prior.

    "Diana, if you want to learn her movement technique, you can also do it by bing her disciple. Not only her technique, but she can also teach you many other things and help you get stronger. You can use this chance to get a skill book as a reward, then learn under her direct guidance, or you can just ask her to teach her technique as a reward and be done with it. The choice is up to you."

    Hena didn''t talk about it further and left the decision to Diana. Seeing her deep in thought, she thought. ''It seems she is contemting. So, she is not against the idea. I guess the situation between them is still remediable. If that''s the case, it''s for the best.''

    Zeth, who had calmed down a little, also looked at Diana with interest, wondering what her choice would be. Luis and Alicia also turned their attention to Diana.

    Under everyone''s curious gazes, Diana looked at Hena with a confused expression and asked.

    "Professor, what do you mean by disciple and direct guidance? Aren''t I already her student?"

    "��"

    Everyone was speechless by her unexpected answer. Hena covered her face and sighed. Then, with a patient expression, she exined.

    "Diana, in our academy, student and disciple represent separate status. For example, as you are a student of Leviathan ss, you are also Olivia''s student. But to her students, she will only teach things rted to academics and her help will be limited to the subject she teaches. However, to her disciple, she will teach all her fighting experiences and her unique techniques."

    "Of course, the direct guidance system is only limited to the top twenty students. Among them, it''s up to the Professors to ept or reject taking disciples. Now do you understand?"

    Diana nodded, "I understand Professor."

    "Good, let me tell you beforehand, Olivia is ready to ept you as her disciple as long as you agree. So, what''s your choice?"

    After a few seconds of pause, Diana''s voice sounded. "�� I want to be her disciple."

    "You sure?" Hena asked, surprised by her answer.

    "She will teach me all her fighting experiences, right?" Diana asked with a calm expression.

    "Of course, she will."

    "Then I ept. As long as I can get stronger, nothing else matters." She said with a determined expression.

    Her answer did not surprise Luis. Rather, he had long expected it. ''Diana is aware that Olivia is the most suitable professor for her direct guidance. If she can get stronger, she won''t care about Olivia''s personality issues.''

    Others also somewhat realized her thought process. So, they all had a look of understanding.

    "Okay, then you can go choose your skill book now. I''ll tell Olivia your answerter." Hena said, making Diana nod at her and refocus on browsing through the lost list of skill books.

    Hena saw that Luis and Alicia''s attention was back on the screen. She hesitated for a moment, then finally asked. "Luis, Alicia, what about the two of you? What''s your decision?"

    They turned back to look at her in unison. Luis had a gentle smile on his face, while Alicia''s gaze was indifferent.

    "Shouldn''t our answer be obvious, Professor?" Luis said, and Alicia beside him nodded in agreement.

    "I see... I''ll tell her." Hena said, then exhaled a deep breath.

    ---

    While browsing through the list of skill books, Luis was deep in thought.

    ''Hmm, what should I choose? Most of the B-Rank skills are attack skills. Although some of them are cool, they don''t have much appeal for me.''

    Luis prefers using his spells rather than attack skills unless they are of too high rank like S and above or they are rare growth-type skills. For a B-Rank attack skill which had limited potential, he had no interest in it. Because after a certain period, the power of a low-rank skill will not be of much use to him when fighting with powerful enemies.

    ''These defence-type skills might be good for me, but most of them require having a shield or armour. Why is there no good defence skill that can be used without equipment? Most probably, all the good ones are A rank and above.''

    After some thought, Luis narrowed his search to auxiliary skills and defence skills without equipment. Regardless of their rank.

 Chapter 180: Guilt!

    After browsing through the list for quite some time. Luis finally settled on an auxiliary skill that he believed he needed very much, given his current strength.

    ''If only it was a growth-type skill like my perception. Sigh�� guess I''ll do with it for now. Besides, it''s not too bad, even if it''s a C-rank.''

    Yes, he set his eyes on a C-rank skill because he couldn''t find any good auxiliary skills among the B-ranks. As most of them had some requirements to use, that made him lose his interest.

    Since he had decided, Luis didn''t waste any time and called out, "Uncle Zeth, I have made my decision."

    Hearing this, Zeth walked forward, leaning towards the screen with interest. "Which one?"

    Luis pointed. "This."

    "Oh? Interesting choice, kid!" Zeth nodded with a grin, casting him a look of approval.

    Hena wanted to see what skill he picked that caused him to get Mr. Zeth''s praise. However, since he hadn''t called for her. It made her embarrassed to pry on it or sneak a peek at the screen.

    Luis took onest look at the screen as Zeth closed it and they waited for Alicia and Diana to be done with it.

    After a few minutes, Alicia and Diana also made their choices. Zeth closed all the screens and then went inside to bring the skill books.

    Sometimeter, they saw Zething back with three boxes in hand.

    "Here are your skill books, kids. You know how to use it, or should I tell you?" He asked while giving them the box containing the skill book they chose.

    "We know." Alicia and Luis said in unison.

    Diana, on the contrary, shook her head and said, "I knew about it, but I forgot."

    "You just have to channel your mana into the skill book," Hena said.

    "That''s it?" Diana was surprised, and immediately took out the green skill book from the box, channelling mana into it. The next second, the book shone with green light as it disintegrated into thin air. She felt some changes inside her body, and she was certain that she had learned a new skill.

    She turned to look at Hena and grinned. "Thank you, Professor."

    Hena nodded, but her attention was on Luis and Alicia, who put the box containing the skill book inside their mana bracelets.

    "Are you two not going to use it now?" She asked.

    Luis nodded, giving a nce at Alicia and said, "We will use themter, Professor."

    "Fine but remember to use it and don''t sell it to anyone." Hena reminded.

    "Don''t worry, Professor, we are not short on money," Luis said with a gentle smile.

    However, his smile irked Hena, as she re-realized the identities of these two students. ''Ugh, these rich second generations. So annoying.''

    She took a deep breath to calm her envious heart as she turned to Zeth.

    "Mr. Zeth, Olivia will send the merit points for these three B-rank skill bookster."

    "Hmm," Zeth nodded, not too bothered by it. Then, raising his brow, he also added. "It''s only 2 B-rank and one C-rank."

    "Really? Hmm." His words surprised Hena as she turned to give the three of them a curious nce. However, she didn''t question them and said to Zeth. "Thank you, Mr. Zeth, for your time."

    "I am just doing my job." He shrugged with a wave of his hand.

    ---

    When they were about to leave, he ced his hand on Luis'' shoulder and said, "Remember toe by again, kid."

    "I will." Luis gave him a polite smile. "See youter, Uncle Zeth!" With those words, he left with the others.

    Zeth stood there watching their silhouettes for a few seconds, then smiled and went inside.

    ***

    Some distance away from the exchange centre, Hena halted her steps and faced the three of them.

    "Do you all want to go to Olivia''s office with me?"

    Luis and Alicia stared at her in silence. Their expressions conveyed their intentions.

    "Thought so," Hena sighed, expecting this response from them.

    "Then you all can go back. As your Olivia, I''ll make sure that she apologizes for her mistake."

    At this moment, Luis spoke up. "I think you misunderstood something, Professor. We never wanted her apology."

    "What do you mean?" Hena asked in confusion.

    Alicia also gazed at Luis, seemingly saying that she wanted Olivia to apologize. However, seeing that he had something on his mind, she didn''t interrupt him.

    "As I said before, Professor. We just do not want her to create any more trouble for us. Do you understand?"

    Although, his words were pointing at Olivia''s previous behavior. Hena, for an inexplicable reason, had a feeling that he was hinting at something else.

    ''No way, it should be my illusion, right?'' She tried to deny herself, but when thinking of Luis'' smartness. Her heart felt more and more wrong. ''There''s no way he knows about the troubles connected to this case, right?''

    "Luis, did Olivia tell you something?" Hena asked straightforwardly, her voice serious. She knows the implications if Olivia involved them further.

    Luis gave a tired sigh and said, "We are just first-year students, Professor."

    His answer was simple, and his voice was indifferent. But his casual response made Hena''s mood sink as she understood the hidden meaning behind his words.

    ''We are just first-year students, Professor. How can you expect us to be involved in political affairs and criminal organizations? Please don''t trouble us anymore.''

    Hena''s mood turned bad, not because of Luis'' rejection. Rather, she felt what he did was correct and supported it. She also doesn''t want some first-year students to take on such heavy responsibilities.

    She was angry at Olivia, who tried to involve them in it. ''No, if it''s true. I can''t let this slide. I should go ask her.''

    "I understand." She nodded at Luis and said, "Don''t worry, you all won''t be troubled by it. I promise."

    "That''s a relief," Luis showed a relieved smile and  holding Alicia''s hand, he said, "Then see you tomorrow, Professor. We will be on our way."

    "Okay," Hena nced at the left and said, "Diana, you should also go back with them. You can see Professor Olivia tomorrow and talk about your direct guidance."

    "Okay, Professor."

    Diana being Diana didn''t understand theplicated stuff. So, she kept her silence about it and left after the other two.

    Hena, who was looking at the backs of the three students, had a sad look on her face. ''Why do you have to do all this, Olivia?'' Angry at her friend, she immediately went to her office to get the answers she wanted.

    ***

    After, Luis and Alicia returned to the t. Alicia looked at Luis with curious eyes and asked, "Is it okay to let it end like this?"

    Luis shook his head and exined the reason behind his intentions. "After knowing that, Professor Olivia was trying to involve us deeper into the troubles of the Temar Kingdom. Professor Hena is bound to be angry and feel guilty about it."

    "What does her feeling guilty have anything to do with us? At most, she will stop her, but I don''t think Olivia is going to try anything now anyway after all that had happened today," She asked, expressing her confusion.

    "Indeed, Professor Olivia won''t do anything. Nor did she n to. Her question to me during the mission was only out of curiosity."

    "I don''t believe it." Alicia doubted.

    "Yeah, after all that she had done. It''s hard to believe her, but what I said is the truth and you will understand itter." Luis hadn''t told her about Olivia''s past. As he felt there was no need to do so for now.

    Alicia still found it hard to believe. This was apparent in her expression, but Luis didn''t care about that and answered her other question.

    "As for what benefit I will get by making Professor Hena feel guilty. It''s simple. I want to learn her mind techniques, without bing her disciple or revealing my Illusionist talent. By creating the emotion of guilt and indebtedness inside her, it will be easier for me to make her share her techniques with me."

    He said in an eloquent manner, exposing his intentions. However, he only received a deadpan stare in return.

    "What?" he asked, baffled by her reaction.

    "Can''t you just ask for it directly from her, instead of doing all this maniption?"

    His brows twitched, and he exined. "I am not doing any maniption. I wanted to ask her directly too. It just turned out this way, so I nned to take advantage of the situation."

    "Now, not only I can be sure of learning her mind techniques, but we can also make her do some work for us in the future if we make proper use of her feelings of guilt."

    "You should understand by now what kind of person Professor Hena is, right?"

    Alicia nodded in understanding and decided to stop talking about it.

    "By the way, what skill book did you choose? Is it a C-rank?"

 Chapter 181: Testing The Skill!

    "Yeah, it''s Enhanced Instinct, an auxiliary type of passive skill." As he said that, Luis also took out the box containing the skill book from his mana bracelet.

    "Oh? I thought you would choose a defense skill or movement skill." Alicia said, surprised by his answer.

    "I wanted a defense skill, but there were none to my taste," Luis didn''t hide it. Then a teasing smirk appeared on his face. "As for movement skill, do you think any kind of movement skill can be faster than teleporting?"

    "I know that," Alicia pouted. "I just considered the case when you are hiding your space element."

    "Hehe," Luis chuckled, seeing her reaction, but as she was on the verge of getting angry with him. He changed the topic. "What skill did you choose?"

    Alicia''s attention was indeed diverted. As she answered with a smile. "I chose an Underwater Breathing Skill."

    Her answer surprised Luis because, from his perspective, Alicia would either choose a movement skill or an auxiliary skill rted to reflexes. However, Underwater Breathing wasn''t in his expectations. It''s not that he looks down on that skill. Rather, it''s an important skill for humans, especially for those who want to challenge Sea Dungeons.

    He just thought that it would have been better to get these skills from Antis, the Underwater Kingdom. There should be a variety of options present. Anyway, since she had already made her choice, he won''t say anything about it.

    "Good idea! We can go diving on our next date." Luis nodded in approval.

    Alicia became speechless, but when she heard his next sentence, her face became beet red.

    "With your new skill, you can also give me a mouth-to-mouth supply of oxygen. Guess we saved our money from renting diving equipment. Huh." Luis said with innocent, bright eyes. As if they indeed made a big profit.

    Alicia, who was blushing, snarled at him to hide her shame. "What do you take me for?! Your oxygen cylinder?!"

    "Well, of course!" Luis said without hesitation.

    Alicia''s eyes widened at his immediate answer. She was about to say something, but Luis spoke first.

    "You are as important to me as oxygen is for my body. Without you, I''ll have trouble breathing." Luis said in a serious tone.

    Then, gently closing in on her, he whispered in her right ear in a seductive voice. "Which is why, oh my so sweet and sexy oxygen cylinder. Prepare yourself, my supplier, as you are going to supply me with oxygen mouth-to-mouth exclusively for a lifetime."

    At his shameless words, Alicia was so embarrassed that she hung her head low. Afraid that he might notice the blush on her face.

    "Hmph, just keep bbing your stupid nonsense. I''ll go to the gym since there''s still time before our dinner with Rura." With those words, Alicia avoided facing Luis and scurried away like a cat.

    Seeing this, Luis chuckled and stopped teasing her for now. "She is so cute."

    {Master, where do you find such cheesy lines? I don''t understand how you can rte an oxygen cylinder to the word ''sexy''.}

    "�� Isn''t your sister Alicia sexy?"

    {She is.}

    "That''s your answer."

    {???}

    Lily became even more confused, but Luis didn''t bother to exin to her anymore. He took out the blue skill book from the box and looked at it curiously.

    ''I always wonder who creates these skill books.''

    Ever since the first time someone found a skill book inside a dungeon, people have had many theories regarding who created it.

    ''Some said it''s the gift from the gods.''

    ''Another was that these are the scattered inheritances of an ancient civilization that had perished.''

    ''They also said that the dungeon created it. Which I highly doubt as dungeons aren''t sentient existence. So how can they create something soplicated?''

    As soon as Luis thought of that, his brows furrowed. ''Wait, why did I just assume that dungeons aren''t sentient existence? Don''t tell me�� is it the Magic Law of this world that is interfering with everyone''s thoughts and stopping them from finding the truth?''

    Luis didn''t know what happened, but he felt a weird sensation inside him that was stopping him from caring about these things. ''Strange��'' He became deep in thought and sometimeter Lily''s voice snapped him out of his daze.

    {Master, is everything alright?}

    "Huh? Yeah, I''m fine." Luis nodded; his mind filled with unanswered questions. ''One day, I will get answers to all my questions.''

    He shook those thoughts out of his mind and channeled his mana into the skill book. A blue light shed by, and the skill book in his hands disintegrated. The next moment, Luis felt a strange sensation inside him. He knew he had learned the skill.

    With a wide smile on his face, Luis said. "Lily, show me my status."

    {Okay, Master.}

    Right after, her voice fell. A hologram screen on his mana bracelet shed open.

    ***

    [Name]: Luis Suarez

    [Race]: Human

    [Age]: 16

    [Rank]: Order rank ������ (D)

    [Affinity]: Lightning (Hidden: Space)

    [Talent Awakened]: Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent]: Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique]: None

    [Bloodline]: Unawakened

    [Titles]: Challenger

    [Skills]: Perception (Growth Type), Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D), Enhanced Instinct (C)

    [Techniques]: Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Intermediate ������), Ancient Spiritual Meditation Method (Basic ������)

    [Mana Core]: Rank C

    ***

    (Note: At present, all his skills are passive. When he learns active skills. I''ll show them separately.)

    ***

    "Great! Now let''s go test it out! Lily, activate the button drones!" As he ordered her, he opened a vortex and went inside his pocket space.

    Standing on the white surface, Luis looked at the dozens of button drones floating in the air with a calm expression.

    "Lily, turn their on-touch detonation mode on and attack me with them at my signal."

    {You sure, Master?} Lily asked in concern. Although she knew her master was strong. If he experiences the detonation of dozens of button drones, even he will be hurt.

    "Yeah." He was sure about it, as he nodded and closed his eyes. Then shouted. "Now attack me!"

    At his signal, Lily controlled the button drones, and they shot at him at fast speed.

    [Enhanced Instinct (C): Passive Skill]

    The foremost use of this skill is Danger Sensing, something that Luis needed very much. Because of this skill, even with his eyes closed, Luis was able to sense the danger around him.

    ''Although, it can''t exactly sense the source of the danger. It is still helpful.''

    The Second is Threat Gauging. For now, Luis doesn''t have any method to gauge the opponents'' strength unless they release their mana.

    However, with the help of this skill, although he may not be able to find the enemy''s rank, he can feel the threat level from the stronger opponents, as his instinct will remind him to avoid those dangers. Though, it''s not a sure-fire way. It can still help him to a certain extent.

    ''Then the third use.'' Luis thought as he tilted his head to the right, avoiding the bullet drone that went past him, just a centimeter away from exploding.

    The third use is his Body Reflex. In a fight, facing some vital attacks, his body may avoid them out of instinct. Just like the button drone just now.

    For the next few minutes, Luis focused on dodging the button drones to adapt to this new skill and tried to learn to what extent the Body Reflex works. However, in the end, he could only sigh with some disappointment. "This skill is amazing. Only if it had a higher rank."

    As a C-Rank skill. It had various limitations. The most regretful one was that the Body Reflex doesn''t always work when his vitals are targeted. Which means he can''t depend on it too much in a fight.

    "Sigh, whatever. It''s good enough for now."

    Now that he had a good grasp of his skill, Luis left his Pocket Space and went to the gym to train along with Alicia.

    ***

    Alicia noticed Luis entering the gym, but she ignored him with a snort and focused on her workout. Luis also didn''t disturb her and started training.

    Time passed by, as the appointed time for dinner with Rura came close. Luis and Alicia stopped their training for the day and freshened up.

    {Master, Miss Rura has sent a message asking if the two of you are ready yet.}

    "Yeah, tell her we are ready and ready to leave anytime."

    {Got it.}

    ---

    A few secondster, Rura came to their door.

    "Wow, you two look so gorgeous together!"

    Rura couldn''t help but praise when she saw Luis and Alicia wearing matching color clothes. Alicia was wearing a navy-blue dress with white patterns on it. While Luis wore a navy-blue suit with a white inner shirt.

    "You also look beautiful, Miss Rura," Alicia said with a polite smile as she observed her. Rura was wearing a ck and red dress, with her fiery braided hair tied up into a low bun.

    "Since it''s our first meeting. I''ll introduce myself. I''m Alicia Raven. Luis'' fianc��e. Nice to meet you, Miss Rura."

    "It''s a pleasure to meet you, too. Miss Alicia." Rura smiled looking at her with curious eyes.

 Chapter 182: Maki Shidou!

    A few days have passed since the Temar Kingdom mission. Diana officially became Olivia''s disciple and started learning under her.

    After that dinner, Alicia and Rura''s rtionship also became quite close, and now they can be considered friends.

    Luis has continued his training and justst night, he has increased the gravitational pressure around him from 5 times to 6 times in his daily life.

    Sometimes he tries to break through his limits by increasing it to 8 or 9 times while training. However, it''s still difficult for him to bear that pressure 24/7. After all, he still must attend sses in the morning.

    Many students have already started choosing subjects of their choice and joined different clubs since the end of the 2 weeks was approaching close.

    ---

    Inside the Leviathan ssroom, Luis was listening to the professor''s lecture with interest. The lecture was about Monster habitats.

    "Buddy..." Ben called him out in a low voice.

    "What?" Luis asked back with a frown. He was confused as to why Ben would disturb him in the middle of the ss when he hadn''t done such a thing until now.

    "I have a favour to ask of you." He said after some hesitation.

    "Let''s talk about it after ss." Luis could see that what he wanted to talk about wasn''t something urgent. So, he shrugged him off.

    "Okay." Ben nodded and paid attention to the ss.

    The professor also noticed their small conversation, but he turned a blind eye to it as long as they didn''t disturb his ss.

    Right after the ss ended. Olivia entered the ssroom and announced.

    "Everyone, please pay attention!"

    "There are two announcements that I have to make."

    "First is that from tomorrow onwards, the practical sses will begin."

    "!"

    As soon as her words fell, the majority of the students inside the ssroom showed interested expressions.

    Why wouldn''t they be, after all, no matter how disciplined they are in ss? Most of the students still prefer practical lessons over theory.

    Of course, that is also because they are still not aware of the difficulty level of Oracle Academy''s practical sses.

    Some students who had already guessed it didn''t show much joy about it.

    Luis, on the other hand, had a neutral expression on his face as he wondered if he should increase the gravitational pressure around him at the time of practical sses.

    ''Nah, I shouldn''t do that. Otherwise, the situation will once again end up like what happened with v. He doesn''t know about me, so he thought of me as a weak student.''

    However, his ssmates and professors are aware of his strength. If he performs poorly, out of a sudden. He is bound to create suspicion.

    ''Sigh. Guess I''ll have to give up.''

    Luis stopped thinking about it as he noticed Olivia was about to continue.

    "The second announcement is about the month-end evaluation exam in which you willpete with the students from other sses."

    As soon as her words fell, murmurs started sounding inside the ssroom. The students showed various expressions. Confused, interested, eager.

    Olivia continued observing them with a neutral expression and said with mana in-filled her voice.

    "Quiet!"

    "..."

    Silence ensued throughout the entire ssroom, as no one dared to make any noise after feeling the pressure she released along with her voice.

    "You all will have a lot of time to discuss itter. For now, listen to me, as I am not going to repeat myself."

    "The contents of the evaluation test will be revealed a week before the exam."

    "You all have ten days to prepare yourself before I share the exact contents of the exam with you all."

    Upon seeing theirck of reaction because of the vague information. Olivia shared another piece of information with them.

    "The reward for this exam is quite generous. If you do well enough, it is even possible to gather a million merit points."

    "A million?!"

    "Professor, is that true?!"

    Some of the students were in disbelief.

    "Of course. Why would I lie about it?"

    After her confirmation, the students couldn''t help but get excited. In theirst week inside the academy, all the students have a general idea of how important the merit points in this academy are.

    Especially the ones who aren''t rich. For them, obtaining expensive resources is quite difficult. No matter how good their talent is, if they aren''t lucky or don''t have any powerful investors.

    They could never get stronger and would only waste their potential and talent.

    Of course, the students with B to S grade talents have a lot of people willing to invest in them. Mainly the mid and high-tier guilds.

    As for the students with lower talent than C grade could only go to low-tier guilds and, if lucky, they might be epted by mid-tier guilds.

    However, until now, it only happened on a few asions, as even the mid-tier guilds don''t want to waste their resources on individuals with lower-grade talents.

    Low-tier guilds don''t have many resources with them, so they can only work hard to fight for the resources.

    This is where the academies y a major role in developing the students before they can be epted by any guilds or other such organizations.

    Like the Oracle Academy. With the help of the merit points system. They give the unwealthy students a chance to fight for resources while also being trained in how to fight for them.

    Increasing thepetition between the students and rewarding them with merit points. Will motivate them to work harder and fight for resources themselves so that they can get stronger.

    So, Olivia''s statement about having the opportunity to obtain a million merit points made the students very excited, and they started asking several questions.

    "Professor, what''s the exam about?!"

    "Will it be simr to how it was in the entrance exam?!"

    "Wait for me to reveal the exam contents ten dayster. You will then have an entire week to prepare for the exam." With those words, Olivia left the ssroom, not intending to talk with them further.

    As soon as she left, the excited students couldn''t help but discuss among themselves.

    "Maybe it''s just a written exam."

    "No way, since they are trying to make the sses face off against each other. It''s going to be a fight."

    "If it''s a fight, then we are sure to win!"

    "Are you that confident in your strength?!"

    "Even if I am not that strong, we have the top two students with us. How can other sses defeat us?" The student said, while gesturing in the direction of Luis and Alicia.

    Another student beside him said while nodding. "Yeah, and don''t forget, we also have Diana. She is also very strong."

    At her mention, several students nodded in agreement.

    "Yeah, she is very powerful. I''m sure she can crush ten of us together with just her punches."

    "You are still underestimating her. I have seen her in the entrance exam. She was crushing those E-rank monsters and punching them like sandbags."

    "For real?!"

    "Yeah, you might not have noticed, but in her fight with Luis. When their punches collided, they created shockwaves."

    "Holy!"

    "I was so amazed by their duel. That I doubled my workout that day."

    ...

    Their discussion about the exam was diverted towards Luis and Diana''s duel. As they expressed their admiration and praises. They became more and more enthusiastic.

    Right then, a question was raised among them, which made the nearby students silent and brought their focus back to the exam.

    "Yes, they are very powerful and can defeat all the other sses. But will the exam be a direct fight between students? I don''t think the academy will make it unfair for other sses."

    These words were said by a frail-looking, brown-haired girl. She had sharp eyes, and her face could be considered beautiful if it was in Luis'' previous world. Here, in this world, with the existence of heroines, the sub-heroines and the viiness. She can only be considered average in terms of appearances.

    "What you said is right, Maki. The academy probably won''t be so unfair. It''s an exam and apetition between sses. So, they will probably test the united strength of all the sses." These words were said by a female student beside her, who had a contemtive expression on her face.

    Maki nodded and spoke. "Yeah, so I think the 10 days which we have been given are to increase the unity between us. So that we can cooperate well in the exam."

    "Great thinking!"

    A loud praise attracted the students'' attention as they turned back to look at the source.

    "L-Luis!"

    At the sight of Luis standing near them with a wide smile on his face. The students'' because excited as well as nervous.

    Maki was also surprised, as she hadn''t expected Luis toe and praise her out of a sudden.

    Luis, followed by Alicia, walked over towards Maki with a smile on his face and asked.

    "Can I have your name, ssmate?"

    "I am Maki Shidou."

 Chapter 183: Factions!

    After the day when they received their rewards. Luis and Alicia didn''t have any interactions with Olivia other than the ss.

    She neither apologized nor did she pester them to be her disciple. It was good in a way, otherwise it would have been annoying.

    When Luis heard Olivia''s announcement about the month-end examination, he instantly remembered the entire plot of that event.

    However, he didn''t intend to share the information with the students about it. He would support them, but only to some extent. If they wanted to obtain merit points, they would have to work hard themselves.

    Besides, other than the exam. He has another thing to focus on.

    ''I wonder if that attack will happen, or will there be some changes in the real world?''

    ''Since those two are already here, it shouldn''t be much different from the plot. However, Alex wasn''t in the limelight this time. So, they might not follow the orders and change their target.''

    ''Hmm... If their target is only Alex. I won''t interfere. But if they nned to do something stupid. I won''t let them go,'' Luis thought with a calm expression.

    He turned to Ben and was about to ask what he wanted to ask from him before.

    Right then, he heard the discussion of his ssmates. Especially, someone''s analysis that made him interested.

    ''She is smart! I wonder who she is?!''

    Curious, Luis couldn''t help but walk over in their direction.

    ---

    "Can I have your name, ssmate?"

    "I am Maki Shidou." the brown-haired girl said with a small blush.

    Alicia frowned but didn''t say anything about it. Because she knew that Luis was very handsome. So, it''s normal for ordinary girls to feel shy when talking to him.

    She is fine, as long as they appreciate him from afar. If some bitches still try to approach him, she doesn''t mind teaching them a cold lesson.

    "So, it''s Miss Maki!" Luis nodded with a smile.

    Maki was about to tell him to not be so formal with her and that it was okay to just call her by her name. However, when she saw Alicia''s ring eyes were on her. She swallowed back her words.

    Luis ignored the nervous expression on Maki''s face and turned to look at the girl beside her.

    "What about you, ssmate?"

    At the same time, when Maki gave her analysis, this girl also agreed with her and also gave her opinion.

    "I-I am Lyza Kent."

    "Miss Lyza it is." Luis nodded, then observed the two of them simultaneously.

    The surrounding students stood there in silence, waiting for Luis to continue speaking.

    "I heard your analysis and I quite agree with it. Although I can help my ssmates and will do for sure if needed." He lied with a sincere expression.

    Then sighed. "Just like Miss Lyza and Miss Maki said. We aren''t certain about the contents of the exam and since it''s apetition between the sses. There''s no way the academy will make it unfair by letting only some individualspete. That''s why I hope everyone can do their best."

    In another sense, he was telling them not to depend on him and Alicia.

    He tried not to be rude so as not to make his rtionship with his ssmates bad. Although, he doesn''t care about them and their opinion of him. He still didn''t want to make his academic life unpleasant.

    "What are we supposed to do?" A male student asked with a confused expression.

    It was not just his question. Many others wanted to know the same thing.

    "Maybe you can try what Miss Maki said before. Try to increase the unity between ssmates."

    "How?" another student asked.

    "This isn''t something I can answer." Luis shrugged. Then said. "Well, good luck everyone. We will leave first."

    With those words, Luis held Alicia''s hand and left the ssroom, followed by Ben a few meters behind them.

    "..."

    "They are in a rtionship, right?" One student mumbled.

    "Isn''t that obvious?" Another student rolled his eyes.

    "He is rich, talented, handsome and has such a beautiful lover. I feel so envious of him. He has everything that I can only dream about."

    "Heh, you are too narrow-minded."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Can''t you see? Although he has a beautiful lover, isn''t it good for us that such a handsome guy is alreadymitted? Do you think the other girls would have even nced in our direction if he was single?"

    As soon as that statement came out. The male students'' eyes brightened in realization, and they became very optimistic about their future.

    Maki and Lyza looked at each other with helpless expressions on their faces and felt bitter in their hearts.

    "Maki, do you have any ns on how to unite all the students?"

    Another student, who didn''t care much about romance and stuff, came forward and asked.

    After hearing that question, Maki put aside the bitterness in her heart and became thoughtful.

    "We can conduct an after-ss event within these ten days. Where we can get familiar with everyone in the ss."

    "Hmm, good idea."

    "How about games or a pic?"

    "No way, a party is better."

    "What about the cost?"

    Soon, more and more enthusiastic students joined in the discussion and, for obvious reasons. Maki became some sort of leader, and Lyza, as their vice leader.

    ***

    "Why did you do that before?" asked Alicia as she nced back at Ben, who was waking few meters behind them.

    "You mean my conversation with Maki and Lyza?" Luis nced at her, then grinned. "What? Don''t tell me you are jealous?"

    "No." Alicia snorted. "I was just confused by your actions. You asked for their names and left after encouraging them a little. I can''t understand your purpose."

    Luis'' steps halted as he said with a serious expression. "How about you supply me some oxygen and I answer your query?"

    Alicia''s expression darkened and five ice swords appeared around her, levitating in the air.

    "Hold your des,dy! I was just joking, okay?!" Luis said with a nervous expression.

    "Hmph," Alicia knew that he was just pretending. He had many ways to deal with her attack. If he doesn''t want to, she can''t hurt him with this kind of attack. Upon thinking of this, her intent to get stronger became even firmer.

    Seeing her pouting, Luis didn''t tease her further.

    "The answer to your question is simple. As you can see, those two girls are very smart. After my affirmation of them before, if they don''t mess up, they can get the favour of other students from the ss. It''s not a problem for her to be their leader and make a faction,posing those students."

    "... There''s no way your simple words can have such an exaggerated effect, right?" Alicia asked in disbelief. She even forgot about her previous displeasure.

    "Hehe, it seems you still don''t have a clear understanding about the academy, Alicia." Luis smiled and started walking, matching her pace. Then continued. "Answer me something. Would you be willing to create a faction and lead them if those students came to you?"

    "No way! I don''t have time for such things." Her answer was direct.

    Luis nodded. "Yes, and the same can be applied to other top students. None of them has time to care about other students when they, themselves, are in the process of growing."

    "The top students can get resources with their ability and talent. However, the other students can''t do the same. Although, the academy provides the students with many opportunities to obtain resources and get stronger."

    "A student with a normal talent still can''t grow much with his effort alone. This is the reason, creating and joining factions can help those struggling students obtain the resources and benefits in a more efficient manner."

    "The second and third years already have many factions. Normally, the normal first students either join the already established factions led by seniors or the ambitious ones create their own factions."

    "The students from our ss haven''t joined or created any faction yet."

    "I''m not bragging, but what do you think will happen when the top student shows affirmation of a normal student for her ability?"

    Alicia narrowed her eyes and then nodded in realization. "They are bound to get curious about her. If she is indeed smart and does have the ability. She can get the other students'' support and create a faction."

    "Bingo!" Luis looked at her with a faint smile.

    "This still doesn''t exin why you want her to create a faction?" Alicia asked.

    "Having our ssmates create a faction and then joining it is still better than them joining other factions. For example, what do you think will happen if a student from our ss joins a faction made by another ss?"

    "Ah, I see." Alicia nodded. "In that situation, he will be in a difficult situation of having to choose between his faction and his ss. After all, the month-end exams arepetitions between sses."

    "Yes, and that is why I bet on those two. Now, we can only wait and see if they can live up to my expectations."

 Chapter 184: Love Advice?!

    "Buddy..."

    At this time, Ben, who had been following them a few steps behind, caught up with their steps and called him out.

    Luis and Alicia were aware of his presence, but Luis didn''t care about him listening in on their conversation. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have had that conversation out here in public, in the first ce.

    "Is it about the talk that we had in ss before?" Luis asked with a knowing expression.

    "Yes, I want your help."

    Ben nodded as he stood at a meter''s distance from them and looked at Alicia with some hesitation.

    Alicia also noticed his actions, and it made her curious. Before, she wanted to give them some space, but not anymore.

    "Go on. Don''t mind me. Pretend that I''m not here." Alicia encouraged.

    Hearing this, Ben felt kind of awkward and he turned to Luis, as if asking for help.

    "Is your request something to be shameful about?" Luis asked, seeing the tangled expression on Ben''s face.

    "... Not really," Ben said, after a moment of thought.

    "Then don''t worry about Alicia''s presence here. She won''t do anything unfavorable for you. She may even be of help." Luis suggested, while observing Ben''s expression.

    If Ben still shows some hesitation about Alicia, he won''t make it difficult for him and go talk with him alone.

    "Hmm, maybe you are right." Ben nodded, then looked at Alicia with a firm expression. "Sister-inw, then please help me."

    Alicia gave a nod with a straight face, hiding her blush.

    Then Ben led them out of the main building and brought them to the pavilion in the garden.

    "There are no other people nearby. So, can you tell us now what troubles you?" Alicia asked with a in expression. Which made it hard to believe that she had a favorable opinion of this boy in front of them, who called her sister-inw.

    Ben looked at them with a solemn expression.

    "Buddy, Sister-inw, the thing is... I want a girlfriend."

    "..." (x2)

    Alicia deadpanned, her heart full of regret. ''I shouldn''t have insisted on following them.''

    Luis''s lips twitched, but he said with a calm expression. "Good luck, I guess?"

    "Huh? That''s it?"

    Upon seeing the confused expression on Ben''s face, Luis felt somewhat irritated.

    "What else do you want me to do about it?"

    "No, I mean. You can have such a beautiful girl-like sister-inw by your side. So, can''t you give me some good advice on how to impress a girl?"

    Luis felt a headache. He wondered if he had misjudged Ben''s character before.

    ''Why would he suddenly ask advice on how to court a girl? Hmm, wait!''

    "Tell me something Ben, who is the girl you are interested in?"

    "H-How... W-What are you talking about? I am not interested in anyone. I just asked because I wanted to try using your methods and see if I can get a girlfriend or two."

    His shutters and his evasive eyes made it so obvious that he was lying.

    "You want two girlfriends?" Luis asked in amusement.

    "N-No, she is enough," Ben said with a nervous expression, then seeing Luis'' expression, he understood something and facepalmed. "I messed up."

    "It''s okay, inexperienced boys in love often make those mistakes." Luisforted him, but the next moment he felt a piercing re on him, so he added.

    "This is what I heard. Not that I know much about it. After all, I too am inexperienced."

    The danger he was sensing around him with the help of Enhanced Instinct disappeared and only then did he heave a sigh of relief.

    "Is this true, buddy?" Ben asked with an astonished expression.

    Luis didn''t answer him and stared at him with a t gaze.

    "So, who is the girl? Just out with it!"

    At his abruptness, the bulky guy blushed and after some hesitation, he said in a low voice.

    "...na."

    "Can''t hear you. Speak louder."

    Even with his hearing of a D-Rank body. Luis couldn''t hear him.

    "..." Ben was silent.

    Luis became annoyed. "I don''t have all day! I have other things to do! If you aren''t willing to tell us! Then we will just leave!"

    With those words, he grabbed Alicia and was about to leave with her. Right then, he heard Ben''s answer, and his movement came to an abrupt halt.

    "Diana."

    Luis turned back with a dumbfounded expression. Alicia''s expression also matched him as she stared at Ben with her beautiful eyes in shock.

    "For real?" Luis asked.

    "Yeah." Ben nodded with a slight blush.

    "How? When?"

    "We met at a parfait shop and chatted a bit. It turned out we have simr tastes. She challenged me, then we had a bout. I lost in a few seconds. She said that we will fight again next time."

    "... How did you start liking her?" Alicia, who was silent on the side, asked with interest.

    "I don''t like her yet. It''s just a little attraction."

    "Yet, you want to make her your girlfriend," Luis said with an amused expression.

    "..." Ben turned his head away, trying to hide his shame.

    Luis rubbed his temples at the sight of a blushing bulky guy. ''I guess people do change when they are in love.''

    Though, the situation was unexpected for him. Since his friend sought his help. Luis didn''t want to disappoint him and took this matter with utter seriousness.

    "Let me get this straight! You want me to give you advice on how to impress Diana?!"

    "Yes!" Ben also responded with a firm expression.

    "It''s pointless." Luis shook his head.

    "How can you say that when I haven''t even tried?" Ben wanted to argue.

    "No, listen to me first." Luis raised his hand to stop Ben. Then continued. "What I meant was that there''s no point in asking my advice. My experience won''t be of any help to you. Diana is way different from Alicia. You will have to try another way."

    "How so?" Ben asked, with some expectations.

    "Hmm, let''s see," Luis pondered, then started speaking. "She is half beast kin. So, if we consider her beast trait. She would look for someone stronger than her as her partner."

    "Uh, I don''t think I am anywhere close to defeating her," Ben said with some embarrassment.

    "It''s fine. She is also a half-human. So, maybe you can try the methods that work for humans and slowly cultivate feelings for each other."

    "Cultivate feelings?"

    "Yes, in this method. Time is your biggest helper. Diana is a simple but aggressive girl who loves battles. If it''s romance, she probably hadn''t even considered it. So, we can say even if someone wants to pursue her. They are bound to experience an immediate rejection."

    After hearing this, Ben was stunned for a moment. Then he became saddened. If he was alone, he would have cried for sure.

    "Don''t be sad, bro. I didn''t say she would reject you."

    "She will ept me then?!" Ben became energetic.

    The fast changes in Ben''s expressions made Luis dumbfounded. Regardless, he was amused by it.

    "I didn''t say that either. What I meant by it is that you shouldn''t rush things. Since you can''t defeat her now. Work even harder."

    "Talk to her, support her, get close to her. Though do everything in limit. If you do everything excessively. Instead of findingfort around you, she may get annoyed and start disliking you. Try avoiding that situation."

    ...

    At some point, Ben had already started taking notes on everything that Luis said. From Luis'' detailed exnation, Ben found that all of Luis'' ideas are very logical.

    Though Luis didn''t directly state what Ben should do. He exined many things that Ben should avoid doing if he wants to have a happy rtionship.

    "... That is all I can say. I don''t know much about her, so the rest you can only try out yourself."

    "No, buddy! You have already done a lot! I have learned many new things! Good thing that I had this talk with you. Otherwise, I might have done some of the stupid things you stated."

    "As long as you are happy," Luis said with a smile. Then he gave a momentary nce at Alicia and said, "If that''s all, then we will leave now."

    "Yeah, please. Sorry for taking so much of your time sister-inw and thanks buddy. You are the best!"

    Luis chuckled and said, "Say that after you two get together and all the best."

    With those words, he grabbed Alicia''s hands and left together, while thinking in his heart.

    ''Hehe, I sure hope that you seed in your pursuit, Ben.''

    ''I would love to see Alex, lose one of his future harem members to another person.''

    ''If Diana gets together with Ben. I don''t think that day woulde when she stood against Alicia along with Alex and all his harem members, like what happened in the majority of the game''s routes.''

    ''Well, whatever, if everything goes well. I guess I can take both Ben and Diana as my subordinates if they are strong enough.''

    Luis put those thoughts aside for now. Then, along with Alicia, he started walking in the direction of the Battle Arena.

    ***

    Q:) Who do you support for Diana to get together with?

    1) Ben Dous

    2) Alex Stain

 Chapter 185: Avatar Creation!

    Battle Arena.

    34 years ago, this facility was established for the purpose of facilitating fights and duels between students. Later, with the advancement of technology and the adoption of ranking and reward systems, it turned into a ce topete and show off one''s might.

    "So, can you tell me why we are here?" Alicia asked as she observed the vast building in front of her.

    Luis nced around to see several students going in and out of that building. ''My Enhanced Instinct doesn''t find any threat from them. Most of them should be senior students. Hmm, I wonder what the strength of the top students of the second year is.''

    As he made up his mind to investigate it. He also answered Alicia''s question.

    "For the next ten days, we will be doing challenges in the Battle Arena."

    Alicia was taken aback for a moment. As she asked with some doubt.

    "Is it to increase ourbat experience?"

    "You can think so, but our main purpose here is to increase our level."

    "Level?"

    Upon seeing her reaction, Luis understood that Alicia didn''t know much about Battle Arena. So, he started giving her an exnation while they moved inside the building.

    The Battle Arena has several options set up for students. They are Duels, Team Battles, Battle Royale and Custom Battles.

    They can be done both in the virtual world and the real world, as per the students'' choice.

    Other than these options, the Battle Arena also has something called a ranking system. In which the students can challenge the ranking game and obtain numerous rewards.

    A ranking game takes ce in the virtual world, where the challenger fights against the avatar of other students.

    -The issued challenges and duels are all random, based on the level of the challenger.

    -The ranking system''s level goes from 0 to 10.

    -The higher the level, the more and better rewards the challenger can obtain.

    -The levels can be increased by doing challenges and winning them.

    "Uh huh," Alicia nodded after getting a general understanding. Then she asked. "What kind of rewards are there? What are the criteria to receive them?"

    She wondered if the purpose of their visit was for the rewards.

    ''If it''s something that attracts Luis'' attention. It must be good.''

    Thinking of this, Alicia became very curious.

    Luis shook his head and said, "The criteria for rewards are not exined to the students. It is something that they can only explore on their own."

    "I see. Then, let''s get the information from the seniors."

    "No need. I have already done that." Luis lied to stop Alicia from wasting her efforts. Then his expression became serious, and he spoke.

    "Now listen to what I say. After we register, we are going to start doing ranking matches. What I want from you is 100 consecutive wins in the ''Insane'' difficulty. That too all matches ending within a minute."

    Alicia raised her brows, then lowered them again to squint her eyes. "Is this the reason you stopped me from epting Diana''s challenges in thest few days?"

    "Yep, I didn''t want you to waste an excellent opportunity," Luis admitted with a charming smile.

    Alicia felt sweet in her heart but didn''t express it on the surface. She pointed towards the reception and spoke. "Let''s go register."

    Luis wasn''t disappointed by herck of reaction as he walked along with her, showing a faint smile on his face.

    ***

    After getting registered. They synced their ounts with their student IDs so that they could do ranking matches even from their dorms.

    "Miss, we would like to do a ranking match here in the arena." Said Luis.

    The receptiondy who had just registered them. Nodded with a professional smile. "I see. Follow me then. I shall take you to the room where VR Capsules are present."

    She let her colleague manage on her side and led Luis and Alicia towards the capsule room.

    Maybe because they were amateurs here. She was very patient and assisted them as much as she could.

    She gave them all the general knowledge about the battle arena and exined several rules. Luis and Alicia listened to her with patient expressions. Not interrupting her, even if they already knew about those things.

    Within a few minutes, Luis and Alicia were already sitting inside one capsule each. While the staff operated the capsules and activated them.

    "You will start from level 0, as I exined before. After you log in for the first time, you will have a choice to select the difficulty level for your first match. If you win, you may continue with the same difficulty. However, if you lose, you won''t be able to continue with the same difficulty and you won''t have an option to select the difficulty next time."

    The receptiondy gave a thorough exnation while the capsule was activated.

    "Good luck..."

    Those were thest words they heard from her before Luis and Alicia''s vision turned ck and they entered the virtual world.

    The next moment, Luis found himself in a ck space with a blue screen asking for his avatar''s name shing in front of his eyes.

    "Oh, right! I almost forgot this was an option, too."

    Luis thought for a moment and decided to give himself a random name.

    "Let''s see..."

    [The avatar name ''Handsome Guy'' is already taken. Please try again.]

    "..."

    Though a little disappointed, he shook his head and tried again.

    [The avatar names ''Handsome Guy 1'' and ''Handsome Guy 2'' are already taken. Please try again.]

    Luis'' lips twitched and he couldn''t help but be speechless.

    "Damn! Just how many narcissistic people are out there?!"

    Somewhat frustrated, he tried out various names and, to his surprise and annoyance, all of them were already taken.

    After dozens of attempts, Luis finally settled on a name that hadn''t been taken by anyone yet.

    [Avatar''s name ''The God of Charm'' has been confirmed. You may proceed to the avatar characterization.]

    "Finally!" Luis cried out in joy. Not even caring about the strangeness of his avatar''s name.

    The next step was to select whether to hide the personal information or not.

    Luis knew that once he started using his lightning element, his identity would be revealed sooner orter, so it didn''t matter. However, regardless, he chose to hide his information.

    ''So, what if they know? Until my identity is revealed, I can still have a lot of fun.''

    With a smirk on his face. Luis started characterizing his avatar.

    He made it a thin guy, about 1.72 meters tall. He looked kind of gloomy. His eyes were golden, and his hair was waist-length silvery.

    When it was time to dress up his avatar. Luis chose for him to wear a butler''s clothing with a silver peacock mask on his face.

    No weapons were selected, and in his hands, he wore ck leather gloves.

    "Yep, as expected of me. Even if I made my avatar with random adjustments. It still turned out quite good. Unfortunately, he''s not as handsome as me, so I have to cover his face with a mask."

    Luis was very proud of his creation. Then he clicked on the ept button.

    The next moment, Luis found his vision blurring, and then he was standing in front of a mirror, observing himself in the body of his avatar.

    "Uh, the sudden change in perspective is making me feel weird."

    Luis regretted choosing to make his avatar short. He should have kept it the same as his original height.

    "Guess I can only adjust myself with this height for now. If I remember right, to alter the avatar''s appearance. It will cost me a lot of merit points."

    After eximing a sigh, Luis clicked on the next step. Which was selecting the difficulty level for his first match.

    There were four options on the screen to choose from. Easy, Normal, Hard, and Insane.

    "Of course, it''s the ''Insane'' difficulty for me. Otherwise, I wouldn''t havee here in the first ce."

    Without a second thought, Luis clicked on the Insane difficulty as the 30-second timer for the match-up started.

    30

    29

    28

    ...

    Luis stood still, waiting for the countdown to end and for his first match to start.

    ''100 consecutive wins. Let''s crush them all!'' He grinned with a confident expression, as immense fighting instant emerged inside him.

    ---

    The ranking game gives a special bonus to the amateurs challenging the Insane difficulty. That is, for every win, they will get double the experience for the opponent they defeated.

    It''s a one-time thing. The bonus stacks up for each consecutive win until that challenger suffers his first defeat.

    Then there is a special reward waiting for the challenger, who reaches 100 consecutive wins without any loss, in any difficulty.

    When he yed the game in his previous life, Luis got 100 consecutive wins in normal difficulty and the reward was very generous, too. Which made him want to aim for the highest difficulty this time.

    ---

    3

    2

    1

    [Challenger ''The God of Charm'' first match begins!]

 Chapter 186: Elsa Wrisk!

    Inside the virtual world.

    A thin figure wearing butler''s clothing and a silver peacock mask on his face appeared on a grassy terrain. Which would be the battlefield for a ranking match.

    ''Wow, this guy is huge!'' Luis thought in surprise upon seeing his opponent. ''Nah, maybe he looks bigger than me because of the short stature of my avatar.''

    Thirty meters away from Luis stood a 2-meter-tall guy showing off his muscles.

    ''He did a good job, making his avatar look intimidating.''

    Luis checked the opponent''s level disyed in the corner of his vision.

    [Avatar Name: Crusher]

    [Level: 07]

    [Win Rate: 67.9%]

    [Consecutive Wins: 12]

    At the same time, when Luis read his opponent''s information. His opponent also read Luis'' information.

    "Hah! Just an overconfident newbie!"

    Upon seeing the level of his opponent. Crusher immediately realized that his opponent must have chosen the Insane difficulty for his first match.

    "Hey there, little guy. Do you think you are some big shot challenging the Insane difficulty? Unfortunately, you are too unlucky to meet me."

    Because of Luis'' level. Crusher''s arrogance was off the roof as immense fighting intent emerged from inside him. He wanted to crush the little newbie in front of him.

    "..." Luis didn''t even bother to respond to Crusher''s provocation and quietly waited for the 10-second countdown to end.

    For his silence, Crusher misunderstood as him being scared by his taunts. Which made him even more unscrupulous.

    "What! Scared, you little shit?! Don''t you even have a backbone?!"

    Luis sighed and looked at Crusher as if he were looking at an idiot.

    [Match Begins!]

    *Woosh! *

    Right when the countdown ended. Under Crusher''s surprised eyes, Luis'' figure disappeared from his spot.

    ''Fast!''

    That was the only thing Crusher could think of before he crossed his arms instinctively. He received a heavy punch, shattering his chest armor and almost breaking his bone.

    *Boom! *

    After a loud sound of the collision, Crusher''s body was sent flying because of Luis'' mana-coated punch.

    ''Just an E-Rank... Probably a second year... I wonder why he was so arrogant before. When he doesn''t even have the strength to back up his words.''

    Luis felt very disappointed.

    ''Is this the Insane level of difficulty? Good thing I didn''t choose other difficulties, or I would have been bored to death.''

    Although Luis'' purpose ining here is for the rewards. He doesn''t want his fights to be too easy.

    "Hey, aren''t you a level 7? Don''t tell me you only have this bit of strength." Luis'' tone was full of genuine curiosity. Which made Crusher''s face red in anger. He stood up from the small pit created because of his fall and red at Luis with fierce eyes.

    "If your aim was to piss me off. Then congrats! Because you have seeded! You bastard!"

    Crusher''s huge body dashed towards Luis as he took out his hammer to attack.

    ''Should I end this match in one move? Hmm... Nah, let''s y some more.''

    After making up his mind, Luis stood still in a boxing stance and waited for Crusher''s attack.

    Crusher was overjoyed when he saw his opponent stunned in ce. Now it became easier for him to hit his opponent, which is why he decided to exert even more power.

    Luis'' Enhanced Instinct alerted him of the threat from the uing attack. Though the danger wasn''t much, it still alerted him. Which means this was probably one of Crusher''s powerful attacks.

    ''Interesting, so this guy does have some trump cards. Huh.'' With a yful smile on his face, Luis once again coated his fists with mana and faced Crusher''s attack head-on.

    Luis'' actions surprised Crusher, but then he smirked and made his finisher move to defeat this arrogant newbie.

    ''What a fool!'' Crusher scoffed.

    However, the next moment. Under his eyes full of disbelief, Luis easily blocked his hammer with one hand.

    "No way. How is that possible? You are just a newbie!" Crusher couldn''tprehend why this level 0 had the strength to block his attack at full power.

    Luis stared at Crusher with a strange expression. Then asked in his calm voice. "Who said that a newbie can''t be strong?"

    "..." His question silenced Crusher as he realized his mistake in judgement. It was just his assumption that this newbie was weak, and he became even more confident when the newbie didn''t argue back.

    It was only at that moment when he realized that this newbie refrained from arguing, deeming it pointless to respond to his provocations. This thought made him enraged.

    "How dare you look down on me! Even if you are strong for a newbie! I will crush you into a meat paste!"

    Luis wondered if his opponent was a retarded person. Regardless, he didn''t bother to talk nonsense and sent out a powerful punch.

    *Boom! *

    Crusher used his hammer to withstand Luis'' attack. However, because of the powerful force behind the punch. His hammer couldn''t withstand the attack, causing it to crack, shatter, and crumble into pieces. Consequently, he was pushed back a few meters.

    The sight of his broken weapon horrified Crusher.

    Right then, Luis'' next attack came and now the weapon-less Crusher can only try to block it with his arms.

    *Boom! *

    The result was him receiving a heavy blow on his sr plexus.

    However, that wasn''t the end of it. Right when he felt the pain from the first attack. Several attacksnded on him, targeting his vital parts.

    With such a huge body and no way to counter Luis'' speed. Crusher became a defenseless target at the mercy of Luis.

    *Boom! *

    *Boom! *

    *Baam! *

    *Boom! *

    ...

    From his attacks, most of the bones inside Crusher''s body were already broken into pieces and his body was now in distorted shape.

    [Challenger ''The God of Charm'' has defeated Challenger ''Crusher''.]

    [Time Taken: 36 seconds.]

    "Seems like I wasted too much time on that strange dude."

    Luis mumbled.

    ''Well, whatever, let''s move on to the next one.''

    With that thought in mind, Luis clicked on the screen presented in front of him and the next moment, he found himself back in that ck space with only a blue screen shing in front of him.

    [You have won your first match in the Insane Difficulty.]

    [Bonus experience is being rewarded...]

    [You have reached Level 1!]

    [Do you want to continue challenging the ranking game?]

    [ept/Decline]

    "Hmm, let''s trypleting as many challenges as I can within an hour before I go back," Luis muttered to himself and clicked on the ept button.

    Much to Luis'' annoyance. Just like before, once again, a 30-second countdown started in front of him.

    "This waiting time is so annoying. If not for this, I might havepleted the 100 challenges easily within a day or two."

    ***

    While Luis was waiting for his second match to start.

    Inside another VR capsule room, reserved for the second-year students. A girl about 1.56 meters came out of the capsule.

    She had peach-pink colored shoulder-length hair, and she wore cute essories on her head. The cute dress aligned with her cuteness, giving people a very childlike feeling.

    This girl''s name was Elsa Wrisk. A second-year student in the Fenrir ss.

    A cute girl with a warm personality. She is friends with almost all the second-year students. Which exins how social she is.

    However, at this moment, that cute girl had a dark expression on her face. There was a gloomy aura surrounding her.

    Fortunately, none of her acquaintances were around her. Otherwise, they would have been scared looking at her current expression.

    "That damn bastard toyed with me!" Elsa cursed with a fierce expression.

    This extremely social girl also has another side of hers that she doesn''t want to reveal in front of anyone.

    Which is why she uses her avatar to vent out all her frustrations in the virtual world.

    "How dare he call himself ''The God of Charm''! What a stupid narcissist!" Elsa snorted, then she thought of something and became depressed again.

    "How can I be defeated by a stupid narcissist? What a shame!"

    Yes, Elsa''s avatar''s name is Crusher. She used her merit points to obtain a male avatar. Then characterized it to make it look like a tough character. It took a few moments for Elsa to calm down as she started thinking rationally.

    ''There shouldn''t be any possibility of cheating as the academy manages and monitors the ranking game. Which means his strength is real.''

    ''So, how can a newbie have such a strength? As a newbie, he should be in his first year. However, his strength was stronger than mine, who is a 3-star E-Rank.''

    ''Are the freshers so strong this year?''

    Thinking so, Elsa felt quite unbelievable. However, those were the facts in front of her.

    As she remembered her battle, Elsa once again became annoyed and stood up. She was going to find out who that person was.

 Chapter 187: Ronalds Call!

    Once again, Luis found himself on a simr grassy battlefield. This time, his opponent was Level 6, with a 46.7%-win rate.

    Not bothering to waste time this time around as soon as the match started, Luis burst out his power to attack his opponent.

    "Mud Spike!"

    Upon seeing Luis'' aggressiveness, the opponent used his spell at him and tried to halt his actions.

    With the use of his Enhanced Instinct, Luis predicted the attacks'' trajectory and dodged them with nimble movements.

    Then, after closing the distance between them, he punched out, striking at the opponent''s jaw.

    *Thwack! *

    [Challenger ''The God of Charm'' has defeated Challenger ''Gecko''.]

    [Time Taken: 06 seconds.]

    "Huh? That''s it? He didn''t even survive one punch." Luis knit his brows in confusion. "No, this isn''t right. From what I know. There are some powerful students in the second and third years. So, why am I encountering these weak ones when I have challenged the Insane difficulty?"

    After finding himself back in the ck space, he challenged the ranking matches again.

    His third match.

    Level 5 opponent, time taken, 5 seconds.

    Fourth match.

    Level 6 opponent, time taken, 8 seconds.

    Fifth...

    ...

    Sixth...

    ...

    Just like that, Luis had already won 10 matches in a row. However, he wasn''t happy. Because he has yet to encounter any decent opponent who can make him use his element or spells.

    "Are the top students from the second and third year offline? Your handsome junior wants to receive your teachings."

    Luis'' opponents in the next 4 matches also turned out to be average, as they all lost within 10 seconds. Which disappointed him.

    "I should end it for today. Let''s hope I encounter powerful opponents tomorrow." Heaving a sigh, Luis exited the virtual space and found his vision back inside the VR capsules.

    His current statistics in the ranking matches are.

    [Avatar Name: The God of Charm]

    [Level: 02]

    [Win Rate: 100%]

    [Consecutive Wins: 14]

    ***

    When Luis got out of the VR capsule. He only found a staff nearby and after he inquired, it turned out Alicia''s hadn''te out yet.

    ''Guess she will take time. I should go back first.'' Thinking so, Luis tapped on his mana bracelet. "Lily, inform Alicia that I have left once shees out."

    {Okay, Master.}

    "Hmm," Luis stared at the VR capsules with a thoughtful expression. ''Should I just hack into it tomunicate with Alicia?''

    As soon as those thoughts crossed his mind. Luis dismissed it. ''No, if I get caught. There will be a lot of unnecessary troubles and they might even ban me. Let''s not hack it, not until I have received those rewards.''

    Luis shook his head and left the battle arena building, moving towards the academy.

    However, on his way, he came across some familiar people and a scene that piqued his interest.

    ''Alex, Sera and those two idiots. Hehe, interesting.''

    Luis took cover and hid his presence using the Stealth spell he had learned. In his sight were the figures of Alex and Sera, chatting and walking together. Completely unaware that behind them, about 25 meters away, two men were tailing them.

    ''Hmm, so it seems their target is still Alex. From the look of things, if nothing unexpected happens, the month-end incident will follow the game''s route.''

    Reassured, Luis was about to leave. When something unexpected happened, making him frown.

    Sera, who was smiling and chatting with Alex, turned around and dashed towards the two followers and confronted them.

    "Hello, may I inquire about your identity and the reason for following us?" Sera asked, her tone direct and unwavering.

    At her question, those two men were stunned, not expecting to be discovered by the other party. The confused Alex, who came after Sera, turned to look at the two men with cautiousness.

    Upon seeing that the situation was getting worse, the two of them rposed themselves. The pale-faced, thin man stepped forward with a smile, showing his kindness.

    Unfortunately, his smile creeped out Sera and Alex, as they both took a step back, taking on defensive stances.

    The man became a little embarrassed as he raised his hands and exined.

    "You have misunderstood us, students. We are just the staff working with the academy''s management. We have no ill intentions towards you."

    They also took out their identity cards to prove their words.

    "Frank ze and Rover Rick." Sera read their names with a t expression. "Why were you tailing us?"

    Rover answered without hesitation. "Our task was to collect the data about the daily private schedules of the top 20 fresher students. That''s why we followed you. The reason for doing it hasn''t been told to us, so there''s no point inquiring about it."

    With his decisive words, he med everything on the academy, leaving no room for Sera to question them further.

    Alex became relieved, and his caution around them decreased. However, Sera kept staring at them in silence.

    Rover also noticed that Sera was still doubting them, but he didn''t care. Because he could see that his target had already believed his words. He looked at Alex and spoke. "Student, now that you have found us out. There''s no point in following you to get the data. Can you just answer our few questions?"

    Alex thought for a moment and nodded. "Of course, no problem." Since they were from the academy, he had no reason not to trust them.

    A grin appeared on Rover''s face. Upon seeing how easily the task was going to bepleted. He was going to ask Alex to follow him. However, at that moment. Sera grabbed Alex''s arm and said with an apologetic expression.

    "I''m sorry, but the two of us are going on a date. So, we don''t have time to answer your questions right now. Why don''t you go collect the data from the other students first? We can make an appointmentter to answer your questions."

    Without waiting for a response, she force-pulled Alex to leave with her. Alex, who had just heard that they were going on a date, became excited and forgot about other things, letting himself get dragged by her.

    Rover stood still in ce for a few seconds, then gritted his teeth and turned around. "Let''s retreat."

    Frank looked at the backs of Sera and Alex with a fierce expression, but then left after Rover without speaking a word.

    ---

    Luis watched the entire scene with a neutral expression on his face. He nced in the direction where Sera and Alex had left.

    ''I should have expected this variable.''

    He turned around to leave.

    "Lily."

    {The button drones are already monitoring their actions, Master.}

    "Hmm, good job. If something happens on either side, remind me."

    {Aye~ Aye~ Sir!}

    Luis smiled at her yful salute while thinking in his mind. ''I must let Alicia hasten up her contacts with Sera. No matter what, I must find the reason behind her changes.''

    ***

    After he returned to the dorm, Luis yed with Ivy under 9 times gravitational pressure and waited for Alicia''s return.

    *Beep*

    {Master, Dad is calling!}

    "Huh?" Luis let out a surprised sound, then said. "Receive the call."

    The next second, the hologram of Ronald''s face appeared in front of them.

    "Hi, Dad!" Luis waved his hand.

    [Son, why don''t you bother to call us since you left for the academy?] Ronald asked with a sad face. His expression looked very heartbreaking.

    Luis rolled his eyes at his pretence andined. "It''s only been a few days, so stop acting."

    [It''s not acting, okay? I am genuinely concerned about your affairs.]

    At his words, Luis felt warm in his heart, thinking that he was lucky to have such a great family.

    However, he couldn''t be emotional for long when he heard Ronald''s next words.

    [Lumine can get the details from Alicia, but she doesn''t share it with me. So, I can only ask you. Tell me how far you have gone with my daughter-inw?] Ronald asked with a serious expression.

    "..." Luis pressed his lips and gave Ronald a nk stare. "If this is what you have called me for, then I''m hanging up. I must go train."

    [Hey! Wait! Wait! This is what David wanted to know. I just asked on his behalf. He is worried that you two might do something, now that you are alone together.]

    "Do you take me for a fool, Dad?" Luis asked with a speechless expression.

    [Uh... Damn! Your Performer Talent!] Ronald cursed with an annoyed expression. Then he sighed and asked. [Can''t you just tell me when I can see my grandchild?]

    "Not until I am strong enough to protect them," Luis said with a calm expression, but Ronald could feel the unwavering determination behind his words.

    [...]

    Ronald wanted to say that Luis shouldn''t worry about the security and that he would protect them. However, those words couldn''te out of his mouth when he remembered Luis'' assassination incident. He had failed to protect him once. Where can he have the confidence to make any ims?

    "Okay, that''s enough for other talks. Now, can you tell me your real reason to call me Dad?"

    A wry expression appeared on Ronald''s face at how easily his son saw through him.

    [Although, I wanted to call you before. I was a little busy.]

    "I know, Dad."

    [You brat *Sigh* Well, this is about your deeds in the Temar Kingdom.]

 Chapter 188: Temar Kingdoms Darkness!

    "So, you already know about it," Luis said with a in expression, not very surprised.

    Ronald nodded and admitted his source. [Of course, you should know how wide your maternal grandfather''s informationwork is.]

    Luis rubbed his temples and asked, "What do you want to do by bringing up that topic?"

    [This is what I should ask you. Why are you getting involved with the political struggles of the Temar Kingdom?]

    Luis'' eyes narrowed. "What information do you have, Dad?"

    [Not much, just that the entire fiasco was a ruse to cover up the kidnapping of the hidden heir of the Temar Kingdom.]

    "..." Luis'' expression became serious as he remembered the rted plot. In the game, the story is at the time of the Civil War. In the Temar Kingdom, there was a mention of a hidden heir who was in the hands of the usurper.

    Who also caused many riots, almost leading to the downfall of the Temar Royal family. If not for Alex and his partners'' interference and support. They would never have been able to recover.

    ''It means the hidden heir was among the children we saved. No wonder Dad asked me such a thing. We ruined the borate ns of the usurper. He would be furious for sure.''

    ''Hmm, that means in the game''s plot, nobody saved those children.'' Luis thought of Olivia and Hena but didn''t me them for something that didn''t happen.

    "Since they failed because of us. They would probably attack again, with another method."

    [Yeah, must be so. Things aren''t looking good for the Temar Kingdom.] Ronald said while shaking his head. [They can sacrifice hundreds of innocent children toplete their agenda. It shows how brutal their methods are.]

    "... Dad, do you know who is behind all this?" Luis asked while rubbing his chin.

    [Hm? No, that person is causing trouble for the Temar Royal Family without showing themselves.] Ronald answered, then asked, raising one of his brows. [Don''t tell me you truly n to involve yourself?]

    "No," Luis shook his head, then added. "At least not yet."

    Ronald squinted his eyes. [Don''t forget Luis. We already have one enemy to deal with. If you want to attract more trouble, it''s better to think about the pros and cons carefully.]

    "... I am aware. Anyway, let''s put that aside for now. Do you know who the hidden heir is?" Luis asked, with some expectations. However, Ronald''s answer disappointed him. [Nope, it''s called hidden heir for a reason. If everyone knows the information, then how can it be called hidden?]

    "..." Luis had no words to argue back. "Dad, there is something I wanted your help for?"

    [Of course, ask away.]

    "Can you send some of our people to Selvas City to monitor Nick Adams, the leader of the Norwish Mafia?"

    Upon hearing his request, Ronald went silent for a moment. [Luis, you know-] He wanted to say something to persuade him, but Luis cut him off.

    "I know, Dad, but those criminals were justmissioned by the higher-ups of the Temar Kingdom. Even if I deal with them, they won''t care. As for our side, if they question us because of my involvement, then just me everything on the academy and Professor Olivia, who took us on that mission. We, the Suarez Family weren''t involved."

    Ronald was silent for a moment, then nodded in agreement.

    [Let''s do what you said. Now then, about the Norwish Mafia. It''s not as simple as bringing justice to those kids, right? You must have some ns regarding them.]

    Luis tilted his head and smiled. "What are you talking about, Dad? I''m so sad about what happened to those kids. How could I forgive them?"

    [... Fine, since you don''t want to tell me. I won''t ask.] Ronald sighed and asked. [Is there anything else you want my help with?]

    "Now that you have asked, there are a few people I want you to look for. Later, I''ll let Lily send a list, along with some clues that might be helpful in the search." Luis remembered some good potential side characters that appeared in the story. If he can recruit some good ones, it would be helpful to him in the future.

    Now that the plot had officially begun, they should all start appearing one after another. So, it would be easier to locate them through the clues he remembered from the game. Which is why he ns to get them before they can meet the protagonist.

    [Fine, I''ll let some people search for them.] Ronald agreed with some curiosity about the people Luis wanted to search for. However, knowing that Luis wouldn''t answer him, he didn''t bother to waste his breath to ask.

    [I have some work to do, so I''ll end the call now. Also, remember to call your mother asionally.]

    When he saw that Ronald was about to end the call, Luis hurriedly spoke.

    "Wait, Dad!"

    [Hm? Is there anything else?]

    "Do you know Mr. Zeth?"

    [Oh! You met him?] Ronald sounded surprised. Then his expression became serious. [Remember Luis, no matter what happens, don''t offend him.]

    "Huh? Why?" Although Luis didn''t n to do such a thing in the first ce, given his good rtionship with him. Ronald''s warning piqued his interest.

    Ronald let out a heavy sigh. [His identity is not simple. Don''t be fooled by his appearance. That''s all I can say.]

    Then, without waiting for Luis to respond, Ronald ended the call.

    *Beep*

    "... Really? It''s fine if you don''t tell me. Why do you have to be so mysterious? Now, I''m even more interested." Luis pouted, then shaking his head, he left for the gym to work out.

    ***

    For the next five days, Luis and Alicia attended their sses, while also challenging the ranking matches from their dorms.

    They kept the 100%-win rate, with every match ending within a minute. Now their consecutive wins were at.

    Luis: 78

    Alicia: 81

    However, today they didn''t do the ranking matches after returning to the dorm. Rather, they changed into different clothes and went out.

    Because of Maki''s suggestion. The students of Leviathan ss have been getting along well and today they all have assembled to party and get closer to each other.

    Luis and Alicia also came, but because of Alicia''s icy re. Only a few people mustered up the courage to greet them.

    "You know, Alicia. If you keep doing this, you won''t be able to make many friends." Luis said while drinking a mocktail.

    Both sat in a corner, a little away from their ssmates, as they observed them ying games and enjoying themselves, causing a burst ofughter from time to time.

    Alicia let out a soft snort. Her re eased as she faced Luis. "Hmph, I don''t want to have many friends. Only a few trustworthy and good friends are enough for me. So, why should I even put the effort to get closer to them?"

    "Well, I won''t argue with that." Luis knew what she said was right because he thought the same. However, this doesn''t mean he approves of her current behavior.

    ''Hmm,'' After being thoughtful for a few seconds, he said. "Why don''t you see it from another perspective?"

    "What do you mean?" Alicia asked, confused.

    "Like thinking of them as tool people," Luis said, but when he saw Alicia''s expression full of disgust, he hastily changed his words. "Hey, listen to me first. I didn''t mean anything bad. What I''m trying to say is, if you can''t maintain a good rtionship with them because you can''t see them as your friends. Why not think of them as your tool people? To whom having a good rtionship with can help you in the future."

    "What kind of help can they give me?" Alicia was doubtful.

    "Hey, you never know what can happen in the future. The only thing you can do is prepare for every possibility. We now think that they won''t be of help now, but we don''t know the future. So, even if you can''t be friends with them, isn''t it better to have a good rtionship with them?"

    After his reasonable exnation. Alicia considered his words very carefully and finally agreed with him.

    "Maybe you are right. It''s better to have more allies than enemies." Although Alicia isn''t afraid of trouble. Just like Luis, she also hates unnecessary troubles that can be avoided.

    She stood up and tried to mingle with their ssmates with a stoic expression.

    "Oh Alicia,e here. Sit by my side," Diana called out, causing everyone''s attention to shift to Alicia, who nodded and sat beside her.

    At first, the ssmates felt a little awkward because of Alicia''s presence. However, with the help of Diana, they soon got acquainted with her, easing up the atmosphere.

 Chapter 189: Burndead!

    Midnight.

    Inside t number 19, on the second floor of the S ss dorm. A white-haired boy was deep in sleep. However, he had an ufortable expression on his face, and he was sleep-talking.

    "No... let her go..."

    "My Mom is... not a liar..."

    He was experiencing a nightmare, or maybe a memory of his past. Whatever it was, it made him drenched in cold sweat.

    "NO! STOP IT!" He screamed, sitting up straight. His eyes open wide.

    *Hah*

    *Hah* (Panting Sounds.)

    It took a moment for him to realize that everything was a dream. He hung his head low and covered his face with his both hands.

    "That dream again..."

    He knew it would be another sleepless night for him.

    ***

    The next morning.

    Luis woke up in Alicia''s embrace weing a beautiful new day. Though reluctant to leave her side, he had to get up for his morning run.

    In thest few days, Luis had been doing his morning runs under 9 times gravitational pressure. Because of this, he received a lot of encouragement from v. As he only had kind intentions toward him, Luis didn''t feel bad about his strange way of encouraging him.

    While changing into a tracksuit, he asked. "Lily, did something happenst night?"

    Lily''s hologram appeared in front of him, and she was wearing cute pajamas. {Alex had another nightmare, and the duo are still observing from a distance wider than before.}

    "I see. It seems they are still nning to act at the time of the month-end examination." Luis mumbles with a thoughtful expression. "What about Sera?"

    {She has called some of her family guards and they are now staying in a hotel in the Academy City.} As she said that, Lily also projected a hologram screen that disyed the hotel''s name, location, and the details of the people she called for.

    "Two B-Rank and one C-Rank. Just enough to deal with the month-end incident." Luis smirked in amusement. "There''s no way it can be a coincidence, right?"

    {Master, from the analysis, the possibility of her being aware of the incident you are talking about is only 0.7%, so it''s a 97% certainty that it''s a coincidence.}

    "Hmm, is that so? I won''t be too sure about that."

    {What do you mean, Master?}

    "What I am saying is. This time, your analysis seems to be incorrect." Luis said with a soft chuckle.

    {How can that be?} Lily became stunned. {Does she also have a future predicting ability like Master?}

    "I don''t have such ability."

    {I know! Master is Omnipotent!} Lily said with a cheerful smile.

    In response to her praise, Luis simply shook his head with a faint smile, "No, I don''t possess such abilities." His eyes narrowed, and he added, "As for whether Sera has a future predicting ability or not. We will find out soon."

    He turned to look in the direction of Ivy''s bed.

    "Ivy let''s go. I am going for the run."

    *Kyu~*

    The furry Moon Fox rushed up to him and jumped. She sat on his shoulder, wrapping her tail around his neck.

    "Hey..." Luis sighed with a helpless expression. "You know, Lily. Instead of just sitting on my shoulder every day. Why not try running along with me?"

    *Kyu* Ivy''s face was close to Luis''s. As she looked at him with her cute big eyes.

    Luis'' expression deepened. "Don''t tell me Alicia is teaching you her Charm Attack." He scoffed. "Don''t think such a trick would work on me. Alicia is an exception because she has mastered it, but you are just a newbie." He said with a proud expression.

    Ivy stared at him for a few seconds, then turned her head away, ignoring him.

    "... Lily, how long will Ivy''s infancy period will continue? Can''t we start her training?"

    Ivy''s ears perked as she brought her attention back to him.

    {Another month before her infancy period ends and she can start her real training. However, even now it''s fine for her to do some light exercises.}

    "Hmm, you have sent Alicia her training manual, right?"

    {Yes, I have also collected some additional material that I show herter.}

    "Hmm, good." He nodded in satisfaction and left his t.

    ***

    Another day went by. Both Luis and Alicia were busy with their sses and the ranking matches. They have crossed their 90+ consecutive wins and are slowly approaching their target of 100.

    Both were Level 3 now and their performance had made quite a stir among the students who challenge the ranking matches regrly.

    In thest few matches, Luis has also used his lightning element. So, people were already aware of his identity. Alicia had been using her Ice element from the very start, so the people knew her identity early on.

    After knowing that the two newbies were the strongest students among the first-year students. Many second and third-year students wanted to try out their strengths against them.

    This is the reason many high-level students also challenged the ranking matches and ended uppeting against them.

    Despite all this, the two of them maintained their winning streak and finished all the matches, taking time less than one minute.

    ***

    Luis had started his 95th match, and the opponent matched against him this time had a higher levelpared to all his previous opponents.

    [Avatar Name: Silver Knight]

    [Level: 09]

    [Win Rate: 88.6%]

    [Consecutive Wins: 59]

    Just like his name, the opponent was also wearing a Silver Armor covering his entire body, and he held a double-edged sword in his hand. The battlefield in this match was a desert.

    The Silver Knight donned in gleaming armour, approached Luis amid the countdown for their impending match.

    "The God of Charm, what an interesting Avatar name you have chosen."

    "Just gave it at random. All the other names I wanted were already taken." Luis replied with a sigh. While also curious about the identity of his opponent.

    "Ah!" The Silver Knight eximed, nodding in understanding. "I also experienced the same this at the time of my Avatar Creations. Apparently, they keep the avatars and ounts of the graduated students. That is why manymon names are taken."

    "Is that so?" Luis'' tone had a hint of surprise. As this information was new to him. ''I wonder why they would do that.''

    While Luis was thinking, the Silver Knight continued speaking.

    "It seems I misunderstood you before. When I saw your avatar''s name, I thought you were a narcissist. But only now did I understand that you had to choose that name because all the other names you chose were already taken. I apologize for that."

    To show his sincerity, he also bowed a little.

    In his heart, Luis was surprised that people could mistake him for such a person. However, after hearing his sincere words, he wasn''t offended. He waved his hand with a smile and said generously.

    "You don''t have to apologize. Anyone would have made such an assumption. Besides, you just thought about it and didn''t mock me. So, it''s all good."

    After hearing his words of understanding. Silver Knight became even more sure that Luis wasn''t such a person.

    ''What a great person. He is a top student among all his peers, but he isn''t an arrogant prude like the top students from previous years. His words and body actions are confident, and he doesn''t look down on others. I severely misunderstood him because of his avatar''s name.''

    "The God of Charm... No! Can I call you Luis?"

    "Of course, only if you don''t mind telling me your identity."

    "I don''t mind. My name is Michael Burndead. A second year ranked 16th. From the Burndead n of the Aiverson Empire." Michael revealed his identity with a calm expression and, just like he expected, he indeed saw a surprised look on Luis'' face.

    "Burndead n? Isn''t that..." Luis couldn''tplete his words as Michael spoke on his behalf while nodding.

    "Yes, it''s the same one you are thinking about. The members of that n are popr for the art of necromancy and the users of Ghost Energy." His tone was t as he said all that.

    Luis wanted to ask some more questions, but the match was about to start. "Let''s have a long talk another day."

    "Yeah, I, too, look forward to our match. Luis." Michael said with a faint smile, which was half covered in his helmet. Then he shouted in a deep voice. "May the best warrior triumph!"

    As the countdown neared its end, the two challengers readied themselves for the imminent showdown.

    [Match Begins!]

 Chapter 190: Liar!

    "I am not holding back, Luis. Be prepared!" Michael said.

    Then, while adjusting his grip on his sword, he sped up, dashing towards Luis with a wide swinging motion. He shed out.

    "Holy sh!"

    Upon seeing the golden arc of light shed towards him. Luis couldn''t help but cry out.

    "Damn! What a scam!"

    However, he didn''t have much time to be surprised, since the attack had already approached him.

    "Lightning Spear!"

    Using his spell, Luis created a lightning spear and swung it in a horizontal motion to sh with the golden sh.

    *Swish*

    *Boom! *

    "Holy sh!"

    So as not to give him enough time to react, Michael attacked again.

    Luis'' Enhanced Instinct warned him. He squatted down, then leaped in the air, dodging the golden sh.

    "You fell for it!" Michael smirked and used his next move while Luis was still in midair.

    "Holy Bind!"

    Golden chains shot out in the air, surrounding Luis from all directions, encircling him. The chains bound his arms and legs, making him hang in midair.

    "Although your strength is good. It seems you stillck experience." Michael said with a smile while approaching the ''trapped'' Luis, who had a ''helpless'' expression on his face.

    "So, the 16th rank student of the second year is a C-Rank. I wonder what the strength of the 1st Rank second-year student is."

    "You guessed right, I am a two-star C-Rank," Michael admitted. Then advised. "As for the top student of my batch. They are much stronger than me. I can''t even confront them for a few seconds, so you better not think about challenging them with your current strength."

    "Hmm, is that so?" Luis didn''t take his words to heart and gave him a mysterious smile. Which confused Michael.

    Luis checked the time, and it was already 25 seconds since the match started. When he felt the huge consumption of mana inside him, he smirked inwardly and kept chatting with him to keep his attention on himself.

    "By the way, why do you, a member of the Burndead n, have an affinity with the holy element?" This is what Luis was surprised about before.

    "You also find it weird right," Michael sighed. His smile changed to a depressed one.

    Luis wondered if he had touched on some sensitive topic.

    "My mother was a nun and a holy elemental user. She fell in love with my father, who was a member of the Burndead n. When the church found out, they called her a heretic and kicked her out. She gave birth to my elder brother..." Michael started bbing about his sad past. However, Luis was done preparing. So, he didn''t intend to waste time because he wanted to end this match within a minute.

    "Senior Michael! Why don''t we chat about this along with a cup of teater? After you, I still have to defeat a few more opponents today." Luis said with a gentle smile.

    Michael, who was interrupted, was taken aback by Luis'' words.

    "What do you mean? You are bound by me and have no way to escape. How will you defeat me?" Michael chuckled in amusement. He was very confident in his spell''s power. He knew that once caught by it, even a five-star C-Rank might not be able to escape easily.

    Luis didn''t answer him. Instead, he raised his head to look up in the sky and smiled.

    "It seems... it will rain today."

    "Huh?" Michael let out a confused sound. "What are you talking about?" He hoisted his head towards the sky and continued. "How can there be rain inside the virtual world..."

    "!!!"

    His words came to an abrupt halt, and his eyes widened in horror.

    Hanging up in the sky were thousands of Thunder Javelins and Thunder Bullets. At the centre-most area was a giant Thunder Javelin, about 3 times bigger than other Javelins. All of them were ready forunch, at Luis'' will.

    Michael''s reaction satisfied Luis. As he said with a gentle smile. "To answer your previous question. I ask you, Senior Michael. Can you survive?"

    When he asked that question, he also used ''Discharge'' to free himself easily from the holy chains.

    After being silent for a moment, Michael uttered with a wry expression. "... What a monster." He knew there was no chance of winning, with the sea of attacks hanging up above his head looking down on him from heaven.

    Sure enough, the next moment, Luis waved his hand while pouting.

    "It''s rude to call a handsome guy like me a monster."

    Right then, thousands of lightning attacks fell on Michael like a shower of golden rain. It was a beautiful sight to behold.

    However, to Michael, who was the target. This rain wasn''t pleasant at all. Even his full-body armour didn''t stand a chance against those attacks. Because it wasn''t lightning resistant.

    Michael''s avatar sted to smithereens after being thundered. Before he was defeated, he only had one thought in his mind. ''This bastard was a narcissist, after all!''

    ***

    [Challenger ''The God of Charm'' has defeated Challenger ''Silver Knight''.]

    [Time Taken: 52 seconds.]

    "A close one indeed, well I wasted most of the time chatting," Luis said with a sigh as he returned to the ck space.

    ''A holy element user from the Burndead n. I don''t think there was any such character named Michael in the game story, so he wasn''t a part of the named character at least.''

    ''However, the story he mentioned about a nun marrying in the Burndead n is extremely simr to the backstory of another character I know from the Holy Dragon Knight 2.''

    ''Maybe it''s the elder brother that he mentioned.'' Thinking so, Luis'' curiosity piqued. ''Guess a long chat with him is still necessary.''

    By the time Luis sorted out his thoughts, the experience gained and the updates to his ount were already over. The notification to do the next challenge was shing in front of him.

    "5 more to go. Let''s get this over with fast and get that reward."

    Luis rubbed his hands with excitement and clicked on the ''ept'' button.

    ***

    On the other side, Alicia has just started her 96th challenge. The avatar name she picked was ''Ivy is Cute''. Don''t ask why she chose that. Because that was the only thought in her mind at that time.

    Her avatar was a thin, average-looking girl with brown hair and half her face covered by a masquerade mask. Height about 1.56 meters and she wore a ck leather full-body suit, with ck boots, making her look like an agent.

    The battlefield chosen for her battle this time was a rocky terrain. Her opponent appeared 50 meters away from her, d in an archer''s dress.

    "Huh? Alicia, is that you?" Her opponent called out in a surprised tone.

    Alicia was also taken aback. Not because her opponent recognized her, but rather because she was called in such a familiar tone.

    With a slight frown on her face, she inquired in a t voice containing some chillness. "Who are you? Are we familiar?"

    "Oh? You didn''t recognize me? It''s me! Mira."

    Only after she realized that it was Mira did Alicia''s frown eased. "I didn''t expect to see you here." She said with a soft smile.

    "Yeah, I was also surprised. When I saw your avatar name. I instantly remembered Ivy and thought that it must be you. It seems I was right. You really love Ivy a lot, huh?" Mira said with a softugh.

    Alicia read Mira''s information.

    [Avatar Name: Violet Princess]

    [Level: 09]

    [Win Rate: 89.5%]

    [Consecutive Wins: 9]

    She deadpanned. "What''s up with your Avatar name?"

    "Violets are my favourite flowers, and isn''t it cute?" Mira said with a grin.

    "..." Alicia had no words in response to that. Then she saw that the countdown was nearing its end. So, she said. "Let''s talkter. The match is about to start."

    After hearing this, Mira also nodded with an excited expression.

    "Of course, I also want to have an intense battle with you."

    When she said that, immense fighting intent emerged from inside her.

    Alicia narrowed her eyes, and after a moment of pause, she asked. "What rank are you among the second years?"

    "You are finally interested in knowing about me, huh?" Mira''s lips curled up into a teasing smirk. Then she shrugged, seeing Alicia''s t look. "Since we are friends, I don''t mind telling you. I am the 3rd rank!"

    Upon hearing that, Alicia''s expression became serious as she knew this would be a tough fight for her.

    ''Can I defeat her within a minute?''

    Doubts started appearing in her mind as the voice sounded.

    [Match Begins!]

    Right at that moment, Mira released her mana, causing Alicia''s eyes to widen.

    "You are a C-Rank?"

    "Five Stars C-Rank to be exact," Mira replied feeling proud after seeing Alicia''s surprised reaction.

 Chapter 191: Alicias Shame!

    Then she took out her bow and shot an arrow surrounded by wind element at Alicia.

    "Ice Shield!"

    Alicia created an ice shield to defend herself from the attack.

    *Boom! *

    After the collision, the force shattered the shield and pushed Alicia back a few meters.

    ''She is strong!'' Alicia thought while giving Mira a deep look.

    "Oh! You withstood that!" Mira grinned even more. "However, it''s not the end!"

    "Wind des!"

    Several Wind des were shot altogether.

    "Ice Field! Ice Cage! Ice des!"

    Alicia knew that if she didn''t go all out, she was going to lose soon. Which is why she didn''t hold back from using her magic.

    "Although I''ve seen these moves of yours in the entrance exam, I still want to say. Wow! The rare Ice element is so amazing." Mira said while using her wind element to levitate in the air, dodging Alicia''s attacks.

    "Ice Bird!"

    Alicia didn''t give her a response. Instead, she continued attacking.

    "Even though I know your personality, it still hurts to be ignored." Mira dodged the Ice Bird and said with a yful smile. She can see Alicia''s talent and potential. The only reason she was able to suppress her in this easily was because of the difference in rank between them.

    Alicia isn''t an Order Rank yet. From her mana release, Mira could judge that Alicia was most probably a five-star E-Rank. So, the difference in their strength was two entire ranks.

    ''Should I help her push to break through in this match?''

    Mira didn''t care about winning or losing and, considering her good rtionship with Alicia, she wanted to help her.

    "If you have nothing better in your arsenal. You are going to lose, Alicia." Mira taunted, while also clutching her bow tightly. Then shooting arrows covered in wind elements at Alicia in rapid session.

    "..." Alicia didn''t respond. Rather, she couldn''t in the face of uing attacks.

    "Ice Swords!"

    She used her magic to create two Ice Swords. Then, holding one in each hand, she started performing her sword art.

    Neoxysis Style.

    As she moved around and started swinging her swords to parry the barrage of arrows. The swords in Alicia''s hands blurred, disappearing from Mira''s vision. It looked like Alicia was dancing around empty-handed. If not for the constant sounds of something parrying those arrows. Mira would have thought that Alicia''s Ice swords had been destroyed.

    ''What kind of Sword Art is that?'' Though curious, Mira was sensible enough to know that Alicia wouldn''t share it with her. So as not to arouse her displeasure, she didn''t ask.

    ...

    Alicia was able to parry or block the iing arrows by constantly swinging her swords. However, this also made her too busy to close the distance between them. As for Alicia''s Ice magic attacks. Mira was able to dodge them easily by levitating in the air, making those attacks ineffective.

    After each passing second, Alicia started getting impatient.

    ''I can''t defeat her like this.''

    ''My mastery over Neoxysis Sword Art is not enough to do any powerful damage. Besides, she is two ranks higher than me.''

    ''Will my winning streak end? Luis is going to be disappointed in me.''

    Alicia became depressed at that thought. She knew that even if she somehow found a method to defeat Mira; it was impossible to defeat her within a minute.

    She felt very unwilling. She came this far after winning 95 matches in a row. Now when only thest five wins were left. She met such an obstacle.

    "Your Swordsmanship is amazing Alicia." Mira praised. "However, you can''t win against me with just that."

    She didn''t expect to receive a response and was about to continue attacking, but to her surprise, Alicia responded.

    "I will defeat you. No matter what." Her expression was serious, and her voice was full of fierceness.

    "..." Mira was silent for a moment, after hearing her response. Then she thought of something and mumbled. "I see."

    Alicia didn''t hear her mumbling, but became confused when Mira''s attacks halted abruptly. However, since it was an opportunity to close the distance between them, she didn''t intend to waste it. She rushed up, ready to attack Mira. Right then she heard Mira''s words that made her confused.

    "Oh, look at the time! I seem to have some business to attend to. Let''s fight againter, Alicia."

    "???"

    Before Alicia could react, Mira''s avatar disappeared from her sight.

    [Challenger ''Violet Princess'' has withdrawn, resulting in defeat.]

    [Time Taken: 59 seconds.]

    Alicia returned to the ck space, but her mood was extremely low. She wasn''t the least bit happy because of this result.

    ''It''s all because I am too weak.''

    She wasn''t aware of the reason behind Mira''s abnormal behavior, but she knew that her future enemies were going to be significantly stronger than Mira.

    If she can''t deal with such a minor setback, then how will she kill that Orneus bastard with her own hands?

    She shook her head in a depressed mood and pressed on the ept button to continue the next challenge.

    ''Whatever her reason to withdraw was, she had helped me... I should thank herter.''

    ***

    On the other side, inside the third floor of the S-ss dorm. In the t number 3. A brown-haired girl came out of the VR cabin and went towards her kitchen to take out a soft drink from the refrigerator.

    *Gulp*

    "It''s so refreshing~"

    Mira licked the residue of the drink on her lips with satisfaction. After taking out a packet of snacks to eat, she jumped on the sofa with a chill expression. She was wearing a casual top and shorts, showing off her long legs to no one. Because she was alone in her t.

    "Alicia had a win streak of 95 with a 100% win rate and counting my withdrawal, it should be 96. Is she trying to strike 100 wins in a row? Hmm, I also had a 109 win-streakst month, but the only rewards I got were a week''s worth of Mana Drinks'' supply and a set of high-grade potions."

    "Even if the rewards are very generous from an average student''s point of view. Alicia belongs to a rich family. Why would she care about these rewards?"

    Yes, before Mira withdrew from the match because she could see Alicia''s desire to win. Especially when she impatiently parried the barrage of arrows.

    ''I wonder if there will be some differences in the reward with a 100% win rate.'' Mira pondered. ''Anyway, it''s not like I can try to aim for it now.''

    *Sigh*

    ***

    For both Luis and Alicia, the rest of the matches were like a breeze. After Silver Knight and Violet Princess, they didn''t encounter any strong opponents. So, it didn''t take long for them toplete their 100 consecutive wins, while also keeping their 100% win-rate.

    Right after, Alicia returned to the ck space, winning her 100th match. She clicked on the rewards section, which showed the notification about pending rewards ready to be imed.

    [For your performance, you have been awarded. Please im your rewards as soon as possible.]

    ''I see, but where should I im it?''

    Confused, Alicia came out of her VR Cabin and went inside Luis'' t.

    "Luis, how to im our rewards?" Alicia asked when she saw Luis exercising in the gym.

    The sweaty Luis raised his head in her direction and asked back. "Didn''t you read the manual?"

    "Was there such a thing, too?"

    "..." Luis became speechless.

    Alicia didn''t shy away from his gaze and said with an indifferent expression. "... You are here to guide me. Why should I read some manual?"

    "... Although your words are sweet and it''s okay to depend on me, but Alicia, can you please not bezy because of excessive dependence? I want to help you improve, not to drag your feet down by spoiling you."

    Alicia hung her head low and didn''t refute his words. Because she knew what he said was right.

    "I understand. I''m sorry, it was indeed my fault."

    Luis was stunned for a moment. Then his heart filled with regret when he saw Alicia''s depressed look. "... No, I also apologize. I was a little too harsh on you. I''m sorry." He said with an awkward cough.

    Alicia shook her head and gave him a soft smile. "You said all that for my good. You shouldn''t apologize when you are right, Luis."

    ''Oh, my wife is so virtuous~'' Luis'' lips curled up into a smile. "Let''s end this conversation for now." Seeing her nod, he continued. "To answer your previous question. We can im the rewards from our mana bracelet, and the Academy Staff will deliver the rewards to our ts."

    "That''s convenient," Alicia uttered.

    "Yeah, it is. I''ve already made my im, the reward should arrive soon." Luis said, then suggested, "Let''s im your rewards by then."

    ***

    (A.N: Alicia''s Sword Art will be exined over time.)

 Chapter 192: S-Rank Skill!

    It took over an hour before the doorbell of Luis'' t rang. When he opened the door, he saw a middle-aged man standing in front of him. He was wearing the academy''s staff uniform and holding a parcel in his hands.

    "Student, Luis Suarez. It''s your delivery from the academy."

    "Thanks for your hard work." Luis thanked him with a gentle smile as the staff ced the parcel in his hands.

    "It''s just my job." His tone was neutral. However, the slight smile on his face betrayed him.

    When the staff left. Luis stood there for a few seconds, then shook his head and returned inside. ''Watching a middle-aged man acting tsundere feels so strange.''

    *ck*

    Right after, he closed the door; he saw Alicia standing him front of him with folded arms and staring at the parcel in his hands intently.

    "Hurry and open it!"

    "Calm down for a second. At least let me return to the living room." Luis chuckled while passing by her and strode towards the sofa.

    As Alicia followed him inside, she kept her gaze fixed on the parcel in his hands.

    ---

    After unboxing the parcel. Luis started taking out the contents one after one.

    "First is a note stating that I will receive a month''s worth of Mana Drinks'' supply. I can get it from my dorm manager."

    "Huh?" Alicia let out a surprised sound. Then she nodded thoughtfully. "Well... it''s indeed a generous reward in the eyes of other students, at least."

    Luis put the note inside his mana bracelet. "This isn''t the main reward. Besides, it''s free. So, what''s the problem?"

    "..." Alicia couldn''t argue with his reasoning, so she urged. "Just take out the next reward."

    The next reward was a dozen bottles of High-Grade Elixirs.

    "As expected, of the number one academy of Alnaur," Luis said with a smile, but his eyes looking at the bottles were t.

    He ced the Elixirs inside his mana bracelet. and

    "Now for the finale..." Stopping his sentence midway, he took out thest reward that made him excited. "We have a Skill Book."

    What appeared in front of Alicia''s sight was a blue skill book with white patterns on it and a note sticking alongside it.

    "So, it was this skill book that made you so interested. What skill is it and which rank?"

    "Wait for me to read the note. After all, the skill they give as a reward ispletely random. But I am sure that it must be above B-Rank."

    "... Is that so?" Alicia followed Luis'' gaze to see the note in his hands and waited for him to read.

    "Wow! It seems I lucked out!" Luis said, as his lips curled up into a grin.

    "Don''t keep it to yourself. Tell me too. What skill is it?" she asked with impatience.

    From his satisfied expression, Alicia could tell that it must be quite good, and this made her curious.

    Luis smirked at her and revealed. "It''s an S-Rank skill called Flying."

    Flying (S): A prestigious skill denoting a profound mastery of aerial artistry. Upon activating this skill, the user can fly in the air and do breathtaking aerial manoeuvres with ease. The user can execute this skill with their mana. As such, it doesn''t require the user to possess wings, magical artifacts, types of equipment, or other racial conditions.

    After his revtion, Alicia became envious. For her, being able to fly would be extremely advantageous when fighting against an aerial opponent. Like at the time when she fought against Mira.

    Because Mira was levitating in the air, most of Alicia''s attacks didn''t even reach her. If Alicia had been able to chase her in the air, she wouldn''t have needed to face the onught of Mira''s long-range attacks staying on the ground.

    Some time ago, Alicia had tried to create bird-like wings using her ice element to fly in the air. However, it ended up in failure. The wings needed to be big so that they could carry her weight. Besides, she didn''t have enough mana to maintain such huge wings. She also constantly needed to use her mana in order to manipte ice and make her wings move.

    The speed of flying wasn''t fast enough, and the consumption was too much.

    If she uses all her mana just to fly in the air for a few minutes, then how will she fight her opponent? After thinking of this, Alicia scrapped that n. At least until her mana reserve is at the level of an S-Rank magician.

    This is why, when she saw an S-Rank flying skill, Alicia became envious of him. However, she didn''t speak a word to express her desire. She had a feeling that Luis would give her that skill if she asked him, but she didn''t want to do that.

    Knowing well the allure of flying in the sky, she didn''t want to be a greedy girl who took advantage of her fiance''s affection for her.

    Luis didn''t seem to notice Alicia''s envious gaze as he looked at the skill book for a few seconds, then said with a sigh.

    "Although it''s an amazing skill, but I still would have preferred something else."

    His words stunned Alicia for a few seconds, then she snapped out of her daze and her brows twitched in annoyance.

    "Don''t you want this skill? You should know very well the advantages of being able to fly."

    "Of course, I know that, but I have several alternatives that I can use as a substitution for the ''Flying'' skill. Which is why this skill is not very necessary for me." Luis said with a serious expression.

    What he didn''t tell her was that in the Ancient Magic Book, there''s a lightning element movement spell, which is much better than this ''Flying'' skill. It''s just that he needs to be C-Rank to be able to use that spell. Otherwise, his body won''t be able to bear it.

    Now learning a Flying Spell seems like a waste to him. When he won''t use it much in the future.

 Chapter 193: Exchange!

    After hearing his reasons, Alicia couldn''t help but roll her eyes. "If you don''t want it. Then just exchange your rewards with me."

    Since Luis showed hisck of interest in that skill, Alicia didn''t feel any entanglement anymore and stated her desire. "I want that Flying (S) skill."

    Luis faced her and nodded. "Sure, but let''s wait for your reward to be delivered first. If the skill you get doesn''t interest me. Then I might have to say no."

    Even if he wanted to just give this skill book to her. He knew Alicia wouldn''t appreciate his behavior of using material things to please her. Which is why his answer was blunt. Disregard of feelings.

    Alicia understood his intentions and smiled in satisfaction because of his answer. "I''m fine with that."

    Just after she said that. Lily''s voice sounded.

    {Sister Alicia, the academy staff is standing in front of your t, ringing the doorbell.}

    "I see. Thanks for telling me, Lily." Alicia showed a sweet smile.

    {Hehe~ No problemo!} Lily was happy to be praised by her sweet Sister Alicia.

    Alicia turned to Luis. "I''ll go receive the delivery."

    ---

    The academy staff, who was ringing the doorbell of Alicia''s t, was just about to leave thinking that the student wasn''t inside. Right then, Alicia came out of Luis'' t and approached him.

    "Student Alicia Raven, your delivery."

    Alicia just gave a small nod and, taking the parcel from his hands, she went back to Luis'' t.

    ''She went inside the t of the top student of the first year. Does that mean the rumor about them being in a rtionship is true?'' He felt gossipy, but was aware that it wasn''t his ce to speak. ''I bet my female colleagues would be very interested in these spicy talks about students.''

    ---

    After Alicia returned to Luis'' t. She unboxed the parcel and found that her first two rewards were the same as Luis''. As for thest one, it was also a S-Rank Skill Book just like Luis''. Albeit a different one.

    "It''s a Telepathy skill." When Alicia said that, she also observed the changes in Luis'' expression.

    Telepathy (S): A skill that transcends verbalmunication, enabling an instantaneous and silent exchange of thoughts, emotions, and intentions.

    Applied diplomatically, it fosters nuanced negotiations; strategically, it enables seamless coordination. In times of crisis, it bes a powerful tool for empathetic support. This skill redefines human connection, making the mind''s silentnguage a potent force for cooperation.

    This skill requires high mental strength from the user to be applied effectively.

    For Luis, who practices Ancient Spiritual Meditation and has a Mental Fortitude (A) skill, there''s nock of mental strength.

    "Alicia, let''s exchange the skill books," Luis said with a gentle smile, hiding his greed. His attention was fixed upon the ck skill book Alicia was holding.

    "Do you want this Telepathy Skill so much?" Alicia asked with a teasing smile. Inwardly, she was d that Luis was interested in the skill book she received. Otherwise, she would have felt bad taking the Flying skill from him in exchange for some useless skill.

    "It''s not like I have any other option." Luis shrugged. "This skill is much better than using the Flying skill, which I probably won''t use much in the future."

    Alicia snorted seeing his antics. "Stop pretending. The look in your eyes says that you can''t wait to learn Telepathy."

    Luis was surprised, not expecting Alicia to see through him. Especially when he is using his ''Performer Talent''. However, since she already knew, he didn''t hide anymore and answered bluntly.

    "Okay, fine! So, what if I''m interested? I wanted to havete-night talks with you telepathically. Is that something wrong?!"

    A crimson blush appeared on Alicia''s face when she heard his reason for desiring that skill.

    "Hmph, keep thinking such nonsense. Who wants to talk to you?" Alicia let out a soft snort. "Since you want this skill, just take it and give me the Flying skill."

    She exchanged Luis'' blue skill book for her ck skill book. Then, not wasting any time, she injected her mana into it. Luis did the same, as both the skill books shed with blue and ck lights, then disintegrated into thin air.

    Alicia closed her eyes, as she could feel the skill she had learned just now. She channelled her mana, and a few secondster. Her feet left the ground, and she started floating in the air.

    "I''m flying..." she mumbled, then a bright excited smile appeared on her face, and she shouted. "Wow! I''m FLYING!"

    {I can see your sexy underneath.}

    Alicia blushed and lowered her hands to hide it. Only to realize that she was wearing a full-body training suit. So Luis must have lied.

    "You!" She was about to get angry. When she heard his voice once again.

    {It seems the skill works perfectly.}

    "Wait, you were talking with me using the Telepathy Skill?!"

    {Of course.}

    Alicia confirmed that Luis didn''t move his lips, and it was indeed the effect of his skill.

    "It sounded so real. No different from how you usually speak." If she hadn''t seen him not moving lips. She wouldn''t have felt the difference.

    {Try talking with me through your mind.}

    {Is this how it works?}

    {Yes, perfect! Now you can share your thoughts with me without being shy.}

    Alicia deadpanned. Luis chuckled seeing her reaction and spoke.

    "Lily, open up my status for me."

    {Here you go, Master!}

    The familiar hologram screen popped up.

    ***

    [Name]: Luis Suarez

    [Race]: Human

    [Age]: 16

    [Rank]: Order rank  (D)

    [Affinity]: Lightning (Hidden: Space)

    [Talent Awakened]: Sharpshooter (S), Technician (A), Performer (S)

    [Hidden Talent]: Illusionist (S), Sorcerer (S), Martial Arts (S)

    [Physique]: None

    [Bloodline]: Unawakened

    [Titles]: Challenger

    [Active Skills]: Telepathy (S)

    [Passive Skills]: Perception (Growth Type), Mental Fortitude (A), Enhanced Recovery (D), Enhanced Instinct (C)

    [Techniques]: Elementary Martial Arts, Henry''s Breathing Method (Intermediate ), Ancient Spiritual Meditation Method (Elementary )

    [Mana Core]: Rank C

    ***

    "Hm? You divided the skills into the categories of active and passive."

    {Yes, for Master''s convenience.}

    "Good Job!"

 Chapter 194: Roles!

    For the next few days, Alicia slowly adapted to her ''Flying'' (S) skill and now she was even able to do variousplicated aerial movements with ease. For example, doing sharp turns, flipping, also attacking using her ice elements, got her better in aerialbat.

    Luis also worked very hard to get proficient with his new skill. He would tease Alicia using his telepathy, like sometimes sharing his naughty intentions with her, making her embarrassed. Then giving her instructions andmands while she is practicing her aerial movements.

    Meanwhile, Alicia was also sessful in breaking through to Order Rank with the assistance of Luis.

    Today it was already the day when Olivia was going to reveal the contents of the month-end examination to them.

    ***

    Inside the Leviathan ssroom.

    The students were sitting with their backs straight, all staring at the blue-haired beauty in front of them, waiting for her to speak.

    "It seems everyone''s here." Olivia started speaking, addressing the students. "Before, we discuss the month-end exam. First, I would like to talk about the practical sses everyone has been attending for thest ten days. If there are anyints or suggestions, then you can share them with me now."

    As soon as she said that 90% of the students in the ss raised their hands intending to speak.

    "Let me just state it first. The intensity of the training won''t be reduced. Rather, it will only get more intense in the future. So, don''t waste your breathining about that."

    Several grunting and dissatisfied voices sounded in the ssroom, as more than 80% of the students lowered their hands.

    Olivia stared at those students with a t gaze. Then focused on the students who hadn''t lowered their hands yet.

    "You speak first, Maki," Olivia said, gesturing towards the brown-haired girl.

    "Professor, when will the weapon specialization training start? Until now, they have only been teaching us elementary knowledge. Which we already know." When Maki asked this question, several other students, who had their hands raised, also nodded in unison. They had the same question in mind.

    "It shall begin after the month-end examination," Olivia answered and exined the reason. "In the first month, the professors try to perfect the students'' foundation, considering both the excelling and average students. So that there won''t be any difficulty at the time of teaching advanced knowledge. Does that answer your question?"

    "Yes, Professor." Maki nodded.

    "Are there any more questions?" Olivia asked, scanning the ssroom, then stated. "If not, I shall start talking about the month-end exam."

    She paused for a few seconds and seeing that no other students raised their hands; she tapped on the podium and started speaking.

    "The exam will be conducted in two parts. First is the written test that will test your theoretical knowledge about the things taught in the ss this month. Your personal score on the test will also affect the overall score of the entire ss. So, work hard. The Written exam will take ce this Saturday. Today is Monday, so you have 5 days to prepare."

    After hearing about the written test, most of the students didn''t have any psychological changes. Of course, excluding the few who were bad at academics like Diana. Her expression was solemn, as she thought of the written test as her biggest challenge.

    "The next is the main part of the month-end exam. The practical test, which is called ''The Dungeon Rush! Students shall take part in this exam in groups of 5. That means our ss will have ten groups."

    When Olivia stated that, the eyes of the students darted towards the top students of the ss. As they all wanted to be in a team with powerful people.

    However, Olivia''s next words quickly poured cold water into their excitement.

    "The groups will be assigned at random and cease your thoughts if you think that a powerful team member can carry you all the way."

    Olivia tapped on her podium and the holograms on all the students'' desks lit up.

    "I have already shared the exam rules and the information with you all. You can read it and discuss it with your teammatester."

    "The Dungeon Rush exam will be conducted on Sunday. At the East Ind."

    "Now, it''s time for the assignment of groups," Olivia said and pointed towards the hologram screen on the podium.

    On the screen, the photos of all the students in the Leviathan shuffled together. Then listed in groups of five, from team 1 to team 10.

    ---

    Luis quickly browsed through the list. He found his name in team 3 and Alicia''s in team 5.

    ''I guess we will be separated this time,'' He thought as he nced at Alicia beside him. Whose expression was a little depressed.

    {Want me tofort you, Alicia?}

    After hearing his telepathic message, Alicia turned to look at him with a t expression.

    {Get lost!}

    {So cruel�� I''m hurt��}

    {��}

    Alicia ignored him and started reading the information and rules of the Dungeon Rush exam. When he saw this, Luis also stopped teasing her and focused on the contents on the screen in front of him.

    ***

    In a team of five members, each member shall choose a role for themselves. Then, depending on how well they performed their role, they will be evaluated. Personal evaluation will affect the team''s evaluation.

    The teams''position of roles should be.

    Vanguard,

    Support,

    Striker,

    Rear, and

    Commander.

    Since it''s apetition between teams. The students are required to work together. If they act alone, they won''t be awarded any points.

    ''I am going with the Commander role in my team.'' Luis decided. Not caring about the opinions of his team members. Because he was sure they would most likely ept it.

    He skipped the exnation regarding the roles and focused on the information about the dungeon where the exam would take ce.

    ''Hoh! Great! It seems like there are no changes from the game story.'' Luis smiled in satisfaction as he read the dungeon''s information.

 Chapter 195: Rules!

    As stated by Professor Olivia. This dungeon is located on the East Ind of the Oracle Academy called Vernos Dungeon.

    The Vernos Dungeon is divided into 5 areas, each containing different environments and monsters. Which can be regarded as a set of five different dungeons inside the main dungeon. The five zones are:

    The Poisonous Swamp: They have highly toxic reptilian and flying monsters.

    The Winter Mist: Agile monsters specialized in assassination and sneak attacks.

    Tech-Mech: Goblins and Kobolds with high-tech weapons and Mechas.

    Raging Desert: Earth and Sand Element monsters.

    Evergreen Paradise: Giant Insect Monsters and Carnivorous nt Monsters.

    There will be monsters ranging from F to B rank. The team will receive points for every monster that is defeated by them. The points distribution is as such.

    F-Rank Monster: 1 point each.

    E-Rank Monster: 2 points each.

    D-Rank Monster: 5 points each.

    C-Rank Monster: 30 points each.

    B-Rank Monster: 300 points each.

    Hidden Mini-Boss: 50 points each.

    Hidden Boss: 150 points each.

    There''s only one B-Rank monster in the entire dungeon. One Hidden Boss and Hidden Mini-Boss are there in each of the five zones.

    As for finding them? It''s up to the students'' luck and intelligence.

    Each zone will have a piece of golden te hidden, which the teams willpete for. After collecting all the tes, they are to be brought to the final altar and pieced together to call forth the ultimate boss of the dungeon, which is a B-Rank Monster.

    For finding each te, the founder team shall be rewarded with 30 points. The team that pieced the tes together on the altar will receive 100 points.

    There are also several achievement points that the students are supposed to explore on their own.

    The overall points collected by all the teams from a ss will be the ss points. The ss with the most ss points will be the winner and the students from that ss will receive 100,000 merit points each, stacked over the merit points they will receive for their contribution.

    Resources found and collected by the students during the Dungeon Rush are for themselves to keep. Of course, that is after getting inspected by the academy.

    If they want, they can also exchange them in the exchange center for merit points.

    The Dungeon Rush will go on for 12 hours.

    Fights between students are not prohibited, but critically injuring the other students may lead to severe penalties.

    The academy will set up a protection mechanism for all students, which will save them from life-threatening injuries and defend them after they give up.

    ***

    ''There are several loopholes in the rules for students to exploit.'' Luis shook his head with a sigh. He knows there are several good things hidden in the Vernos Dungeon. However, they aren''t as important to him. Because even if they are rare, but not so much. He could get all those things by spending a bit of money.

    ''Ah, well, I''ll get whatever I can. Why should I let go of something free?''

    As he thought so, Luis turned his attention towards Professor Olivia, who was answering the doubts of some students.

    "Professor!" He called out.

    "Yes? Student Luis. Do you have something to ask?" Olivia asked with a in expression.

    The students who were discussing amongst themselves turned silent, shifting their attention to Luis and Olivia in unison.

    Whatever the top student was going to ask, they deemed it important information to know. Even if they have yet to hear his question.

    "There is no information about students being provided with weapons. Does that mean we can bring our weapons and artifacts?"

    At his question, the eyes of several students lit up. While some students, who also had the same thoughts, looked at him with knowing smiles.

    Olivia nodded in response. "Yes, you are supposed to bring your weapons. As for artifacts, forbidden artifacts are not allowed. If brought, the student shall be expelled. Only the artifacts that a student can individually operate are allowed."

    When the students heard this, they all looked at her with wide eyes.

    "Professor, why didn''t you tell us this earlier?" Luis asked with a knowing smile, ncing at his ssmates.

    Olivia understood that Luis already knew this, he was just doing this to warn his ssmates.

    "The academy doesn''t tolerate students using forbidden means to increase their power. That is why there is no need to mention such things. The academy prefers to kick out such students directly. If you hadn''t asked this. I wouldn''t have exined."

    After listening to Olivia''s exnation, the students nodded their heads in understanding, subconsciously also agreeing with her.

    Then several other questions were asked, to which Olivia responded patiently. She answered the ones she could and rejected the ones she wasn''t allowed to reveal.

    Several minutes passed as such and it was now time for Olivia to leave.

    "If you have more questions. You cane to meter. I advise everyone to meet up with their teammates, n out a good strategy, and get familiar with each other''s strengths and weaknesses in the next seven days."

    "I wish you all good luck with exam preparations!"

    Olivia left behind those words of encouragement as she came out of the Leviathan ss, moving towards her office.

    ***

    Luis was in his thoughts when he noticed Alicia beside him, standing up from her seat.

    "Where are you going?" He asked.

    "�� To talk with my teammates and decide on an appointment with themter," Alicia said with a somewhat unnatural face.

    Luis opened his eyes wide in surprise. Then he remembered the party they went to a few days ago, where Alicia got familiar with their ssmates with the help of Diana and understood everything.

    "Hmm, good idea. I''ll go meet my teammates too." Luis said with a smile.

    To which, Alicia nodded and left.

    He continued observing her as she talked with her teammates.

    Upon seeing her growth, Luis felt a little emotional.

    After wiping the invisible tears at the corner of his eyes. Luis also stood up to meet with the members of Team 3.

 Chapter 196: Team 3!

    After a brief talk with his team and making an appointment with them. Luis returned to his seat as the next ss was soon going to begin.

    Alicia also returned as she sat down.

    "How are they?" asked Luis.

    Alicia nced at him and murmured in indifference. "Tool people��"

    Luis sighed with a wry smile. Before he shifted his attention to the mathematics professor who had entered the ssroom.

    For the rest of the day, there was only another theory ss, and the rest were all practical sses.

    ***

    That evening.

    Luis left his dorm, going to the caf�� where he and the other members of Team 3 made an appointment to meet each other.

    Alicia had already left before him, as she was also meeting with the members of Team 5. She even took Ivy along with her.

    Alone, the bored Luis, munched on the snacks as he talked with Lily via telepathy.

    {Lily, how is the investigation about Nick Adams going on Dad''s side?}

    Yes, his telepathy skill worked on Lily. Maybe because she has human consciousness and is not just some data, programmed to act ordingly. Whatever the reason, for Luis this was very helpful tomunicate with her.

    {A team of 3 A-ranks and 2 B-ranks has been sent to Selvas City. Two of them have also joined the Norwish Mafia to spy on the information about Nick Adams. Unfortunately, he is keeping himself out of everyone''s sight.}

    {Hm�� What about Nora Adams and the suspicious man I described that must be working with them?}

    {They saw Nora Adams, but she has a lot of security surrounding her, which makes it difficult for them to approach her. As for the suspicious man, they hadn''t met him.}

    {They were told that they would receive the lord''s blessingter. As the lord is currently busy. Only after receiving the blessing could, they truly be counted as the members of Norwish Mafia.}

    {I see. The lord in their mouth should either be the Dark Magician or Nick Adams. As for the blessing, they must be referring to the curse mark. Since their head will blow up if they talk about it.}

    {The possibility of that being the case is 98.76%.} Lily assured him.

    {Let them stay hidden and tell me when they find anything or are ready to be blessed�� I mean cursed.}

    {Yes, Master.}

    By the time his chat with Lily ended. He was already standing in front of the appointment location. The Little Camel Caf��.

    When Luis pushed open the door, a pleasant sound of bell chimes was heard. Which put a smile on his face.

    The interior of the caf�� was simple, giving it a cozy feel.

    ''Good ce, I cane here with Alicia to rx sometimes.''

    Thought Luis, then facepalmed. ''Can''t I stop thinking about her for a few damn minutes?''

    He sometimes wonders, just why does he have so much affection for her, when there are so many other beautiful women in this world?

    ''Maybe because it''s the arrangement of fate.'' He mused in his thoughts. When he heard a voice calling for him.

    "Mr. Luis!"

    Luis turned his head to see a short purple-haired girl waving in his direction. Upon seeing the familiar face of his short team member, Luis moved towards her.

    He noticed that the other four members of his team were already seated there.

    "It seems like I waste."

    "No, no!" The purple-haired girl shook her head, somewhat nervous because of his presence. "We just came here too early."

    "Thank god!" Luis sighed in relief. "I almost thought that my watch wasn''t working properly."

    His words caused a smallugh to escape the mouths of other members, and the awkward atmosphere around them disappeared.

    Luis smiled at them, and after giving a curt nod to them, he upied the remaining seat.

    "Before we delve into our discussion, let''s take a moment for formal introductions, despite our existing familiarity. A brief exchange of introductions can help establish a more formal and engaging atmosphere." The blonde elven girl said with a t expression.

    Luis just nced at her and didn''tment on the piece of breadcrumb that was struck at the corner of her mouth.

    The others nodded, agreeing to her words as the purple-haired girl from before stood up with vigour.

    "Then I''ll go first!"

    She made a cute pose and introduced herself.

    "My name is Bonnie Brown. I''m a Dwarf from the Grandas Kingdom. My dad''s an amazing technician. I ranked 31st on the entrance examination. My main weapon is a tech hammer created by my dad. I have an affinity with Earth Element. My current rank is 3-Star F-Rank."

    Luis wondered if this dwarven girl had some sort of daddyplex. However, he isn''t one toment on it since they aren''t very familiar with each other.

    The next one to introduce himself was the red-haired guy with a listless expression on his face. He had dark circles under his tired eyes.

    "The name''s *yawn*�� Cobert Ruse. I''m from the southern region of the Aiverson Empire, from a town called Garzha. I was an orphan who waster adopted by a merchant, then a few yearster joined the academy. Specialty is nothing much. I''m just good with daggers. My affinity is Mist Element, and my rank is the same as Miss Bonnie. As for the entrance exam, I ranked 66th."

    When the others heard about Cobert''s past, they didn''t care about his previous rude behaviour of yawning at their face and just thought that the poor guy must have his own difficulties.

    Luis, on the other hand, had a different reaction. The more he heard about him, the stranger he felt. ''Good with daggers�� Mist Element�� Garzha Town�� Adoption. Isn''t that?! No! I must confirm itter!''

    There were many thoughts in his mind, but he didn''t let them show on his face. If what he thought was right, then he didn''t want to alert him. Not that his Performer Talent was so easy to see through.

    "Guess the next is me," the huge macho-looking guy said. "My name is William Park. I am from Lipose town, in the central region of the Aiverson Empire. Which is specialized for its variety of tea brands and ntations. I have a talent for shieldsmanship, and my affinity is with the Water Element. I ranked 92nd in the entrance exam."

    If only William had a buzz cut, Luis would have thought of him as Ben''s little brother. ''Speaking of him, I wonder what his progress is with Diana. Last time, he told me he was binging through a lot of romantic movies in his free time so that he could learn a thing or two.''

    When he thought about it, Luis couldn''t help but shake his head in amusement. ''I just don''t know what kind of romantic things he can learn from those cringy movies.''

    He turned to focus on the cold elven girl, who was about to introduce herself.

    "My name is Sufi Dengza. I''m from Esperia Kingdom. Ranked 21st in the entrance exam. I have an affinity with Fire element and I''m good withrge-scale magic. My father is a prominent wizard in the Esperia Kingdom." Sufi introduced herself with an indifferent expression, giving the impression of an aloof girl.

    Luis observed her with a serious expression, already guessing her father''s identity from her surname. ''Can someone tell her about the breadcrumb on her face? It''s getting hard for me to concentrate on the serious stuff.''

    "Oh! Sufi! There''s something stuck at the corner of your mouth!"

    ''Good job, Bonnie! I''ll treat you to a chocteter.'' Luis praised her in his mind.

    Sufi became stunned hearing Bonnie''s words. Then, with a flustered expression, she wiped her mouth with a tissue and returned to her aloof self.

    However, it was toote to save her image. As everyone already knew, she was just a clumsy girl acting under her aloof persona.

    ''This team is interesting.'' Luis thought as he noticed that all the eyes were now looking in his direction.

    "It looks like I''m the only one left," Luis said with a faint smile and started introducing himself.

    "My name is Luis Suarez. I''m from Tryston City in the northern region of the Aiverson Empire. My father is a businessman, and my mother is a housewife. Somehow, I was lucky enough to rank 1st in the entrance exam. I am a lightning element user. Not good with any weapons, so I make do with a customized desert eagle pistol."

    "Oh yeah! My uracy is very good. In battles, I''m good with crowd control and tactics. Hence, I would like to appoint myself to the role ofmander in our team. Also, I''m just a five-star E-Rank."

    He sounded very humble, then warned with a serious expression.

    "I have a beautiful fianc��e who is obsessed with me. So, give up if you have any thoughts about my handsome face."

    With a handsome smile, he ended his introduction.

    "That''s all."

    "��" (x4 Speechless)

    ***

    Quiz Time:

    Q:) Guess, who is Cobert Ruse?

    1) A named character of another sequel.

    2) A normal side character.

    3) A hidden boss.

    4) Other Answers.

 Chapter 197: Stupid William!

    After hearing Luis'' introduction, all the members of Team 3 gave him a nk stare. Although it''s fine to be humble, his words were more like showing off. Which ticked them off.

    They all knew about him, so what he said wasn''t a lie, but it wasn''t theplete truth, either.

    Bonnie rubbed her little head and spoke. "A businessman dad and a housewife mom�� Yeah, it''s true�� However, can you please not forget to mention their identity of Overlord ranks?"

    Luis waved his hand. "Small matters."

    ''No, it''s not!'' The four of them almost screamed at the same time.

    Upon noticing that everyone was getting irritated because of Luis'' words. Cobert sighed and said with a listless expression. "Since introductions are over, can we start the discussion? I want to return early and sleep�� *yawn*��"

    "Good idea," Bonnie said with a smile, calming down her agitation.

    "Hmm." Sufi hummed as she nced at the narcissist in front of her with disgust.

    William, who was giving awkward nces at Luis, also nodded, agreeing with him. Cobert noticed this, which made him think. ''Could it be that he also wanted themander role? Too bad�� With Luis here and his previous statement. It would be very difficult to grab that position from him now.''

    Luis also noticed the changes in William''s expression, but he didn''t care about him and was more interested in the listless Cobert. ''The more I look at him. The more certain I be of my previous guess. All that''s left now is to confirm itter.''

    "Mr. Luis��"

    Luis cut off Cobert''s words.

    "Just call me Luis. There''s no need to be formal with me, and that goes for everyone here. I hope you all don''t mind if I am casual with everyone here for easiermunication."

    "If fine by me, I also found this formal atmosphere weird," Bonnie said as her previous rigid expression rxed somewhat.

    Sufi hesitated, but also nodded in the end. William was still a little unwilling that no one said anything about Luis dering his choice of role without everyone''s consent. However, he forgot the fact that he, too, was quiet about it.

    "Whatever suits everyone best." William didn''t care about the formalities, either.

    As for Cobert, he was toozy to mind this stuff.

    "Okay then, Lu *yawn* is��"

    Luis'' lips twitched. "Can you please not yawn while speaking someone''s name? That''s rude."

    "I apologize," Cobert said without sincerity and continued. "I wanted to say that since you are going to take on themander role. Can you please lead the discussion?"

    "Well, of course. That''s what I had in mind in the first ce." Luis said with a confident smile. "I presume everyone here has already read the rules and information regarding the Dungeon Rush."

    After seeing them all nod, he continued. "Then I guess everyone''s aware, this test is not a stage for solo performance, but rather a team y. So, I hope you all can act and perform while keeping the team''s interest in mind."

    The listless Cobert rolled his eyes at his statement. Toozy to even bother toment on it. Though, of course, not everyone waszy like him.

    "Aren''t you the most likely person here who would try to act alone?" Sufi said with a scoff.

    Luis nced at her for a moment, then shifted his attention to everyone and spoke.

    "To act as a team, the first thing we need to be clear about are the roles that everyone''s choosing. Please give me your suggestion about the position you find yourselffortable in."

    There was silence for a few seconds as no one answered him and they all turned to look at Sufi, whose face was beet red in embarrassment.

    Yes, Luis ignored her.

    "I want to be Vanguard!" Bonnie said while raising her hand.

    William nced at Luis and said, "With my shieldsmanship talent, I also believe I''m more suitable for the Vanguard role."

    He wanted the Commander role, but no one said anything about Luis'' deration until now. William understood it was already a done deal. Now he can''t grab that role, so he can only opt for the second-best position, to him, which is Vanguard. But here, too, it seemed like he was going to bepeting with someone else for this role.

    "No, you take some other role!" Bonnie said, dissatisfied. "I will smash all the monsters with my hammer. I won''t let any of them get close." She assured, waving her fist with a confident expression.

    "I find it hard to believe. Who knows if the monsters will jump over you and reach us?" William mocked her. ''I can''t deal with Luis. But who do you think you are, little girl?'' He thought with arrogance. Due to his unwillingness from before, he was going to vent his frustrations on her.

    Bonnie became furious. "How dare you look down on Dwarves!!!" If he had said anything about her personally, she wouldn''t have cared much and let it go as a joke.

    However, for the dwarves, mocking them about their short height is the biggest insult anyone could ever make. They take pride over their short height and high intelligence. This isn''t something for another species toment on andugh about.

    William didn''t care about how rude he was. Not only to her, but to the entire dwarven race if his statement gets out.

    The ignorant William smirked and continued mocking her further. "If I don''t look down, then how will I look at you? After all, you are so short."

    "You!!!" Bonnie raised her finger at him, barely containing her anger. This guy was getting on her nerves.

    "What? Did I say anything wrong?" He incited her anger further.

    "ENOUGH!" Luis'' deep voice sounded, silencing them both.

    Cobert was taken aback by the momentum disyed by Luis, and his listless eyes narrowed. ''I was mistaken. I need to re-evaluate him. He isn''t some arrogant second generation who pretends to be nice and likes to show off. He is much more than what he shows��''

    He continued staring at Luis, as hiszy eyes glinted. ''Most of all�� he is dangerous��''

    Because of his mask of listlessness, no one noticed the changes in his expressions. Of course, except Luis, who is the best performer here. Cobert''s level of acting is still far from that level where Luis can''t see through.

    ''Heh, this guy is interesting. However, let''s deal with himter.''

    "Luis, but this guy!" Bonnie was fuming with anger as she pointed her finger at William.

    Luis raised his palm, gesturing for her to stop speaking. "I know, but think about it. We are in a public ce. You don''t want to affect the ordinary people here, right? After all, they aren''t at fault here."

    When she heard this, Bonnie looked around at the ordinary caf�� staff, who were also ncing in her direction. Her anger calmed down a little as she contemted his words.

    Luis saw this change in her, and it made him smile as he added further. "How sad it would be if such a cozy little caf�� gets damaged because of your impulsiveness, right?"

    He also thought. ''I haven''t brought Alicia here yet. How can I let this caf�� get destroyed?''

    ''Besides, the coffee here is too good.'' He nced at the empty cup in front of him, then at the barista, and made a firm decision in his mind. ''Even if this academy gets destroyed. I won''t let anything happen to this Little Camel Caf��.''

    At this moment, the caf�� owner had no idea. That his coffee brewing skills have helped him secure the support of the biggest future backer this world can offer.

    "I understand, Luis, but I can''t let it go!" Bonnie''s expression was calm but her eyes staring at William were deadly.

    "I know, Bonnie." Luis nodded with a neutral expression. Then his eyes shifted to William, and his expression became serious. "As for you, William. If you want to make a suicide statement. Can you please do that after the exam? Or else we might have to take part in the exam with only four members."

    He made a request, but his tone was calm and chilling, full of indifference. Which sent shudders down William''s spine.

    "What are you talking about?! What do you mean by suicide statement?!"

    At this moment, Sufi whose embarrassment has subsided by now also spoke up in surprise.

    "What? Was he truly oblivious? I was just wondering where he got the guts to make thosements."

    She shook her head looking at William with disdain.

    William, who was already having a bad premonition in his heart because of Luis'' statement, started panicking when he heard Sufi''s words.

    "CAN ANYONE ANSWER ME ALREADY?!"

    "Just shut up for a second... Your voice will burst my eardrums..." Cobert covered his ears in irritation and murmured in annoyance. "*Sigh* My drowsiness has disappeared now I won''t be able to sleep properly."

    "Cobert, do you know what they are talking about?" asked William.

 Chapter 198: Injustice!

    Cobert''s listless eyes stared at him, and he gave him an answer.

    "Of course, I know. I''m surprised you don''t know about it. Because what you havemented on is the biggest taboo for the Grandas Kingdom. Which has been agreed upon by all the other nations from the alliance. If the dwarves want, they can execute you anytime and no one wille to save you."

    Luis nodded and asked William. "There''s your answer, happy?"

    William felt himself crashing down on an enormous b of ice. His entire body turned stiff out of fear.

    "No, how can there be such a nonsense taboo?! You guys must be kidding me, right?"

    He asked with some hope in his eyes, but everyone''s strange expressions gave him the answer he didn''t want, shattering his hopes.

    He turned to Bonnie with a nervous expression and apologized.

    "B-Bonnie, I-I''m sorry. Can you please forget what I said and let this matter go?"

    Now he can only hope that Bonnie ends this matter right here. If the other dwarves know about it, then they might execute him.

    "��" Bonnie stared at him in silence.

    Luis could see that Bonnie was on the verge of an eruption. However, he didn''t persuade her on behalf of William. Not to mention, he has nothing to do with him. Unlike Cobert, William is of no use to him.

    That''s why he doesn''t care if Bonnie calls forth other dwarves to punish William for breaking their taboo. ''I just hope that having one member less before the exam won''t lead to a deduction in points.''

    "Why not deal with him after the exam, Bonnie?" Sufi gave her suggestion. She also doesn''t have any good feelings for William, but the same as Luis, she doesn''t want this matter to implicate their points in the exam.

    When Bonnie heard her, she nced at both Sufi and Luis. She also remembered Luis'' previous words and nodded after a little mental struggle.

    "Fine, I will do as you say, but if he gets on my nerves again. I won''t let him go, even if it is the middle of the exam."

    For her statement, no one had any problems. So, the matter of William breaking the taboo was put aside for now. Of course, he wasn''t happy with the result. However, he had no choice but to ept it.

    *p*

    "Well, since that is over. Let''s continue with the positioning." Luis said, then shifted his attention to the elven girl in front of him. "Miss Sufi, what position do you have in mind?"

    Even if everyone was fine, being casual. He still kept a bit of a formal tone while talking with Sufi. Because he could tell that this girl''s personality was annoying, and it was too much trouble for him to deal with.

    The effect was rather obvious, as Sufi seemed a little pleased. Of course, her scowling face didn''t change. He just noticed the slight changes because of his Performer Talent.

    "I am more suited for the rear�� With a variety of fire magic in my arsenal. I''ll be able to clear out a lot of enemies," said Sufi.

    After hearing her reasons, Luis also agreed with her. He wasn''t worried about her lying because he was going to confirm everyone''s strengthter.

    "Does anyone else have an opinion about Rear role?" he asked, ncing at everyone.

    To which they all shook their heads, showing theirck of interest.

    "Then the Rear role is given to you, Miss Sufi," Luis said with a smile. Then added. "However, I hope that Miss Sufi doesn''t mind giving us a demonstration of your abilitiester. So that everyone can rest assured."

    To this, Sufi didn''t get angry, rather, she felt even morefortable. That she wasn''t given the position she wanted because of her beautiful face.

    "Don''t worry, I will show you how capable I amter."

    "I will look forward to it." Luis smiled and turned his attention to Cobert.

    Upon sensing Luis'' gaze on him, Cobert swallowed because of nervousness. He had a feeling of being stared at by an entity that was able to see through his soul.

    "I-I rmend myself for the Support role."

    Cobert thought that no one else was going topete with him for this position. So, it was already a done deal. However, Luis seemed to have other ideas.

    "You know Cobert. As the Support, you are going to be assisting the entire party, especially the Vanguard. While doing this role, you can''t bezy, as excellent support is the core of proper functioning for an entire team�� Are you still up for it?"

    Before Cobert could think of any words to counter Luis'' question. Sufi stated in a hurry.

    "No, I disapprove of him being the support. What if he suddenly falls asleep when I''m in the middle of casting arge-scale magic? The risk factor is too high."

    Sufi looked at Cobert with a slight frown, then said to Luis.

    "Just let him be the striker. He can kill the few remaining minions who end up surviving from my magic."

    Cobert wanted to say something in protest, but Luis gave Sufi an appreciative nce and added.

    "Yes, that''s a good idea. Cobert mentioned before that he is good with draggers. Very well then, we will leave it to him to solo kill the enemies."

    Cobert felt very aggrieved, as he understood the injustice of the world. ''If I didn''t get to choose. Then, why ask for my opinion in the first ce?!''

    ''*Sigh* Whatever�� Guess I won''t be able to chill around this time.''

    Although, he doesn''t care about whichever role he is given. The striker role does suit him better. He gave a nce at Luis while thinking in his mind. ''Does he�� know something? Luis Suarez�� What a mystery.''

    "Um, what about us? Who will be the Vanguard?" William asked, with a hint of awkwardness in his tone.

    "You still want topete with her? Aren''t afraid that she might share today''s events with the dwarves of her hometown?" Luis asked in surprise. He wondered if William was a fool or had guts made of mana steel.

    ''I''m sorry, Ben. Now it feels like I insulted you when I thought of him as your little brother before. This retard doesn''t deserve it.''

    After hearing this, William reacted and nced at Bonnie, who was staring back at him with cold eyes.

    "Uh-um, I meant I don''t want to be a vanguard. With my shield, I will be the best support of Team 3. No! The best supportpared to all the other teams."

    Sufi couldn''t help but snicker seeing him timid. Cobert once again started feeling drowsy, so he yawned and spoke. "*Yawn* Since the roles are decided, can we start the discussion already?"

    Luis nodded and started speaking. "Okay, then I will start with a few things that I want everyone to keep in mind."

    "First, as you all know, the pieces of golden tes are hidden in the five zones. Even if we cooperate with the other teams from our ss in this search. I am sure we are going to pass through all the zones, so we will have to make preparations for each zone."

    "Such as everyone should have a reserve of antidotes with them and keep the extras with William, who is our support."

    "For the Winter Mist zone, we will rely more on Cobert, who has an affinity with the Mist Element."

    To his statement, Cobert nodded in agreement and assured. "If the information given about that zone is true. Then, that area is like my home turf. You all don''t need to worry about anything there."

    "I am counting on you." Luis smiled.

    "�� You sure he isn''t sleep-talking? His eyes seem kind of hazy due to drowsiness." Sufi narrowed her eyes, looking at Cobert with doubt. She wondered why thiszy guy had be active suddenly.

    Cobert gave a roll of his eyes, thinking that women are troublesome. How can she still doubt him after his passionate response? Fortunately, we men are different. Just look at Luis. He has so much trust in him. He felt a little emotional.

    However, his confidence wasn''t for long, as he heard Luis'' next words.

    "Don''t worry, Miss Sufi. I have recorded his statement. He can''t go back on his words."

    "Oh? As expected of the top student! Always thinking ahead." This time, Sufi''s praise was very sincere.

    "��"

    Cobert''szy eyes shifted to Luis, who shed him a gentle smile.

    ''This dude is a devil!''

    Decisively averting his eyes, he waited for Luis to continue speaking in silence. He was afraid if he spoke about anything else, he may end up getting more workload.

    "Next is the Tech-mech zone, where we will depend on Bonnie. Since her father is a technician, she must have the most knowledge about technical stuff among us. Right?"

    Bonnie nodded. "Although I''m not as good as Dad, I have learned a lot under him. So, I''ll do my best for the team."

    Her confident words assured everyone, especially the yman'' Luis, who was looking at her in ''admiration''.

 Chapter 199: Night Hawkers!

    "For the raging desert, we would need a lot of water supply. So, William, we will depend on you for that."

    Everyone, including William, understood Luis was talking about his elemental affinity.

    "No problem." William nodded.

    One by one, Luis started giving instructions to everyone on the things they would need to prepare. Time passed, as it was 2 hours since Luis started speaking. They all listened to all the things he listed with utmost seriousness. He even borated on how they would work together with the other teams from their ss.

    Then they further discussed several things, as Luis checked the time to see it was already past dinner time.

    "That''s it for today, so for the next few days. I hope to see what you all are capable of. If we are acquainted with each other''s abilities, it would be easier to work together."

    When Luis said that, the others also nodded in agreement. The drowsy Cobert, who was dying to leave, became delighted and stood up with vigor.

    Luis also stood up from his seat and was about to leave. When he paused, turned back, and left after saying a sentence.

    "Everyone, please don''t forget to prepare for the written test. Good night~"

    In a merry mood, Luis settled the bill and left, whistling a tune.

    The others looked at each other and left without speaking a word. Bonnie and William were already on bad terms because of the previous incident. Because of her indifference, Sufi didn''t feel the need to talk to them. Cobert was just toozy to talk. He wanted to return to the dorm and sleep.

    ***

    "What a strange bunch they are." Luis chuckled, thinking of the teammates assigned to him.

    {Lily, who is Bonnie''s Father?} Luis asked, using his Telepathy skill. He had been curious about it since before when Bonnie told them that her father was an amazing technician.

    {Her father is Nn Brown. A famous technician of the Grandas Kingdom. Last year, he was nominated for the position of council member of Tresta. A vast organization supported by the government. Which develops high-tech technologies. However, he lost because of not having enough votes in his favour.}

    Luis'' eyes widened in surprise. {He is talented enough to be nominated for the position of Tresta''s council?! Then he must be very good.} He sighed. {Now Bonnie''s previous statement about him being amazing sounds underwhelming.}

    Of course, Luis knew about Tresta. Which is why he was so amazed.

    {What about Sufi? Is her fire magic as good as she ims?}

    {Compared to Master and Sister Alicia, she is still far behind. However, she is indeed good.}

    {I see.} Luis wasn''t expecting her to be that good in the first ce. Now Lily''s confirmation that Sufi wasn''t lying before made him relieved.

    {What about William?} Luis asked, and Lily''s answer didn''te as a surprise to him.

    {Just an average guy, he didn''t have anypetitors in a small town such as Lipose. Constant praise from the people surrounding him boosted his confidence. Aftering to the academy, he found he was nothing special and had an average talent.}

    {Which was a tremendous blow to his confidence. This made him develop an inferiorityplex. He bows to the strong and vents his frustration on the people he deems weaker than himself.}

    "Hmm," Luis did notment on this. He had seen a lot of such people in his previous life, who me everything on circumstances and harm the innocent for no reason.

    They feel that they are the only ones being mistreated, not even thinking about those who are in a worse condition than them.

    ''Whatever�� Who am I to say anything? In this life, I have talent, have a loving family, and my financial situation is better than 99.8% of other families in the world. Blessed with all this, how am I in any position to criticize others?''

    Luis thought so with a smile, as the regrets of his previous life and experiences of two deaths shed in his mind.

    His lips trembled, but he shook his head to stop thinking about that stuff and talked with Lily.

    {Tell me everything about Cobert.}

    {From his documents, the information matches with what he had described before. However, when I checked the information about the merchant that had adopted him. Several of their abnormalities came to light.}

    {Oh, tell me?} Luis'' smile widened as he felt that his previous conjecture was right.

    Lily started speaking.

    {The merchant that adopted him was a good businessman in the eyes of the public, but it was just a fake image he established to hide his identity as the leader of a secret organization that specializes in training assassins.}

    {In fact, some of the assassins killed in that raid had alsoe out of this organization called Night Hawkers.}

    {You mean to say that Cobert''s stepdad trained the assassins who attacked me and killed Aunt Maria?} Luis asked. His expression was t. Not bothered by the news.

    {I don''t know which assassin took the task of attacking you. So, I can''t say for sure Master.}

    Luis nodded.

    In fact, he had tortured the captive assassins to find out which one of them had attacked him. However, they were clueless about who took on that task. So, he could only end the investigation, thinking it was one of the dead assassins.

    {Well forget it.} Luis pursed his lips, then asked several questions in session. {Tell me more about the Night Hawkers organization and whether is Cobert also an assassin. If so, what''s his code name?}

    {As you have guessed, Master!}

    {Cobert had been working as an assassin. He goes by the code name Twilight Owl. He haspleted several difficultmissions and is known as the genius assassin of this generation. A few months ago, the leader of the Night Hawkers died suffering from severe injuries, making Cobert the new leader of the organization.}

    After Lily''s exnation was over, a wide grin appeared on Luis'' face. ''It is indeed him! Oh, Twilight�� you gave me such an enormous surprise.''

    Luis covered his face with his palms and rubbed his temples.

    ''Who would have expected that the cunning hidden boss of [Holy Dragon Knight 2] was a student of the Oracle Academy before his plot started and has been the observer to all the events of the first sequel acting as a mob character hiding his strength?''

    {Lily, what''s his actual strength?}

    {From hispletedmissions, it is estimated to be above C rank.}

    ''Should have thought so.'' Luis knew that Cobert indeed had amazing talent. Besides, after being trained and working as an assassin, he must have had a lot ofbat experience. So, it''s normal that his rank is higher than Luis, who had just awakened a few months ago.

    ''Looking at hiszy personality now. It seems he hasn''t been cked yet.'' Luis tried to remember the plot about how Twilight was ckened. ''If I don''t remember wrong, in his backstory, the girl he liked was killed by someone�� Her name was Lorna or something.''

    He couldn''t remember the details, so he stopped thinking about it.

    ''Let''s observe him for some time and then decide on how to deal with him.''

    After deciding, Luis was about to call Alicia. To ask if she had her dinner. However, he came across a familiar silver-haired figure walking some distance away from him.

    {It''s Alex and the four threats that my Enhanced Instinct is warning me about are probably the ones following him. Two of them should be Frank and Rover. Who are the other two?}

    {Master, they are the guards called by Sera.}

    ''I see, so they are trying to protect Alex while hiding. Does Sera not want to tell Alex that he is in danger? Or does she not have an exnation for her actions?''

    Luis'' eyes were subtle, as he noticed that Alex, oblivious to the tail behind, saw him and approached his direction. ''Is this guy truly a protagonist? I feel ashamed when I remember how I used to y the game with him as my game avatar.''

    However, he didn''t show the disappointment on his face and waited for Alex to approach him.

    "It''s been a while! Do you remember me, Mr. Luis?"

    For Alex''s warm greeting, of course, Luis wouldn''t be a rude bastard. So, he also gave a polite response.

    "Hello! Of course, I remember you. You are from Fenrir ss, and we met in the entrance test. Your name was�� Alex Stain, right?"

    Alex showed a surprised expression, not expecting Luis to truly remember him. Moreover, by his name.

    Since Luis never revealed his identity, Alex didn''t know that the person who contacted him through Rura was actually him.

    "I didn''t expect you to know me."

    "I remember all the students who received S-grade evaluations." Luis shrugged and asked in a casual tone. "Anyway, where are you going thiste at night? It doesn''t seem like you are walking in the direction of the dorm."

    Alex nodded and answered without hiding.

    "I received a letter stating that Student Thomas wanted to meet me..."

 Chapter 200: Sneaky Owl!

    "Huh? Do you mean Prince Thomas? Why?" Luis asked, stunned. ''I did not expect him to act so soon.''

    "I don''t know," Alex shook his head. "It was said in the letter that this matter was of utmost importance, so I should arrive at the meeting ce on time."

    "In that case, is it okay for you to share such information with me?" Luis asked, taken aback. "What if Prince Thomas condemns you for this?"

    Alex showed a look of realization, and after being nervous for a few seconds, he shrugged, pretending to be calm.

    "Doesn''t matter�� There was no such thing stated in the letter that I can''t talk about it with others. So, it should be fine."

    Luis could see that Alex was indeed nervous. ''This protagonist is making me worried about Alnaur''s future.''

    At this stage in time, Alex was indeed too ordinary, but Luis knew better than anyone not to underestimate this guy. In his three years at the academy, his growth is going to be astonishing. However, that''s all for thetter. The current Alex and his personality don''t attract Luis'' attention.

    "I see, then I''ll be on my way. See you around, Alex," Luis said with a polite smile.

    "Yeah, good night."

    Luis gave a slight wave of his hand and left towards the dorm.

    Alex stood there, observing Luis'' back for a few seconds. ''Such a kind and pleasant guy. I can''t see an ounce of pretence in his eyes. He is different from those cunning bastards, who only know how to take advantage of the other party in the name of friendship.''

    As he thought so, a faint smile appeared on Alex''s face. ''Maybe only such a person is worthy of my friendship.''

    Not wanting to waste time standing there, Alex also left for the meeting ce.

    ***

    Luis, who had walked quite some distance from Alex, asked using ''Telepathy''. {Lily, the button drones are in ce, right?}

    {Yes, Master! All their actions are under my monitoring. A student named Sid Klemp sent the letter to Alex.}

    {The scrawny underling that Thomas found?} Luis asked.

    {Yes, Thomas seems to appreciate his sharp mind.}

    {Hmm, is that so?} Luis pondered. ''Is it possible that he is the one implicating Thomas'' actions? It might be just me overthinking�� but just in case.''

    {Lily, add Sid Klemp to the list of ''Interested Targets'' to be monitored.}

    {Will do so, Master!}

    After hearing this, Luis nodded and deactivated his ''Telepathy Skill''.

    ''I wanted to have dinner while watching the drama between Thomas and Luis. However, before that, it seems like I will have to deal with this sneaky owl first.''

    When Luis found himself in a deste area with no people in sight. His steps halted, and he uttered after exhaling an exhausted sigh.

    "Well, that''s it. Nowe out! How long are you going to keep following me?"

    ��

    Luis'' words were met with silence as a response.

    "You know if you don''te out right now. I don''t mind increasing the workload of my team''s ''Striker''."

    As soon as Luis'' statement came out, a white shadow shed by, and a familiar red-haired boy appeared in front of him. However, unlike his previous listlessness, this time his eyes were sharp and solemn.

    "I knew you woulde out if I said that, Cobert," Luis said with a smirk.

    Cobert''s expression was calm, and he asked in a t voice. "How did you find out I was following you?"

    "Aren''t you just a 3-star F-Rank? Of course, I should be able to find you being a rank higher than you." Luis said with a calm smile, but Cobert could sense the sarcasm in his words. This made him doubt. ''Does he know my identity?''

    Thinking that it was enough messing with him, Luis got straight to the point. "So, why were you following me? Did you ept amission to kill me or something?"

    Cobert''s gaze looking at Luis became deep. "It seems you do know my identity?"

    "Don''t me me. It was you who were too suspicious when you told your back story before." Luis said with a shrug. Although he acted calm. His nerves were tense, and he kept his guard towards Cobert. Prepared for the fight at any time.

    If worse came to worst, he was ready to escape using his Space Element, then let the forces of the Suarez Family eliminate him and the Night Hawkers.

    Though, all of that will only happen if he fails in this bet. If he ys the cards well, he might be able to gain a good subordinate and maybe make all the Night Hawkers work for him.

    This is the reason, instead of acting oblivious, Luis took this risk.

    "Were there ws?"

    Although Cobert''s expression didn''t change, Luis could see that he was surprised.

    "Grazha Town, adopted by a merchant, Mist Element, Dagger User."

    Under Cobert''s deep gaze, Luis pointed out those things and stated. "It would be weird if I am not suspicious after all these coincidences. Now your presence here confirmed my doubts that you are indeed ''Twilight Owl''."

    At the mention of his code name, some unpleasantness passed by Cobert''s face, which Luis was quick to notice.

    "You seem pretty familiar with my other identity."

    Cobert wanted to kill Luis and silence him so that he wouldn''t tell others about his identity. But he knew if he did that, it would be even more difficult for him to live a normal daily life. The powerful forces behind Luis were sure to hunt him down.

    After thinking of all this and seeing Luis'' calm expression, Cobert discarded the idea of eliminating him and nned to talk it out first.

    ''Luis seems like a reasonable guy. Maybe I can convince him to hide my identity. Besides, until now he had been treating me like a friend and there''s no hatred between us. I can''t keep killing at every turn. I need to restrain myself.''

    Cobert thought as he remembered the reason he came to this academy and calmed himself down.

 Chapter 201: Work For Me!

    "Yeah, I know a few things," Luis admitted. "The Ex-members of your organization attempted to assassinate me. So, I had to investigate it."

    Cobert nodded, not too surprised by his answer. Someone with an identity like Luis will always have enemies targeting him.

    "You want Night Hawkers to pay for what they had done?"

    Luis shook his head. "No, if you hadn''te forward. I wouldn''t even have been having this talk with you. The one who should answer is not me, but you." He pointed his hand towards Cobert and asked. "If you aren''t here to kill me, then why are you even following me?"

    After a moment of pause, Cobert said. "�� I just wanted to confirm. If you know my identity."

    Luis nodded. "Now you have your answer. Is that all? Then I shall leave. I''ve yet to have dinner."

    Upon seeing that Luis wanted to leave, Cobert stopped him. "Wait!"

    "Hm? Is there something else?"

    "I�� have a request."

    "I''m listening." Luis urged.

    "Can you please keep my identity a secret?" Cobert asked, his deep eyes staring at him with scrutiny.

    Luis didn''t give him an answer. Instead, he asked a question he had been curious about. "Hmm, now that you mention it, why are you�� a genius assassin�� living here pretending to be an average student?"

    "I have my reasons. I would appreciate it if you don''t ask about it." Cobert had no intention of answering him.

    "Well, sure, I was just curious." Luis shrugged, then said with a look of helplessness. "As for your previous request, although I just want to say that I won''t tell anyone. I know you won''t trust me."

    "No, I-"

    Cobert wanted to interrupt him, stating that he would believe him. However, Luis didn''t give him a chance and continued speaking in an eloquent tone.

    "Which is why I have a perfect solution that you will find eptable. While you are a student here, you can do some work for me, of course, at an appropriate price. This way, it wouldn''t hurt your pride and you can ensure that I will keep your secret."

    After speaking, Luis sighed, as if he was saying all this just to convince Cobert. He had no intention of making Cobert and Night Hawkers work for him.

    "��" Cobert''s deadpan eyes looked at Luis with speechlessness.

    Luis could see that his selfless response had overwhelmed Cobert so much that he couldn''t even speak. So, he gave a gentle smile and waved his hand. "You don''t have to be so emotional. As members of the same team, of course, I can do this much for you."

    "��" Cobert kept staring at him.

    Luis checked the time on his mana bracelet and showed a surprised expression. "Oh! It''s already sote."

    He turned his gaze back to Cobert. "I haven''t had dinner yet. I shall leave now. See you tomorrow, Cobert. Good night."

    Then, without waiting for Cobert''s response, Luis left. Of course, while being cautious if his Enhanced Instinct ends up warning him.

    Fortunately, nothing happened while he left, as Cobert had no intention of attacking Luis.

    ''Did I just get taken advantage of?'' Cobert thought, but there was no look of anger on his face. Only a helpless sigh.

    ''Fine, I guess. Doing his work or not is up to me after all.''

    After he thought so, Cobert yawned, as some mist appeared around him and the next moment, his figure disappeared from that deste area.

    ***

    ''My Enhanced Instinct isn''t warning me, so he probably left.'' Luis thought in his mind while maintaining a neutral expression on his face. ''However, just in case.''

    {Lily, use button drones to scan the 100-meter area around me and see whether Cobert or anyone else is following me.}

    A minuteter, Lily''s reply came.

    {I can assure you, Master. No one is following you and Cobert is on his way to his dorm.}

    {I see, add him to the ''Interested Targets'' too.}

    {Okay.}

    {Did Alicia have her dinner?}

    {Yeah, she did.}

    ''Guess I''ll just buy takeout and eat it back in the t.''

    Luis bought his dinner, and soon he found himself back inside his dorm.

    {What''s going on Alex and Thomas'' side? Did they meet?}

    {Yeah, they met each other some time ago. Should I y their conversation?}

    {Wait until I am back in the living room.} Luis said, as he unlocked the door to his t and entered.

    Luis didn''t find the figure of Alicia in the living room. He went to the bathroom to freshen himself, then changed into a new set of clothes. He sat at the dining table and ate his dinner.

    "Where''s Alicia?"

    {In the meditation room, Master.}

    "I see."

    After finishing his dinner, Luis came to the living room and sat on the sofa, holding a pillow in his arms, ready to watch the drama between Alex and Thomas.

    Right when he was about to let Lily y the video. Alicia came out of the meditation room.

    She nced at him and snorted, giving him the silent treatment.

    ''Now what''s her problem?'' Luis became dumbfounded and wondered, does he need to coax her now?

    ''Hmm, let''s do that after I watch this drama.''

    More interested in a drama between two guys fighting for a girl. Luis ignored the dissatisfied Alicia.

    "Lily, now y their video."

    Alicia, who was clueless about what was going on, became annoyed when she saw him ignoring her instead ofing and coaxing.

    However, his words made her curious as she came forward to watch. When the hologram lit up, she saw the familiar figures in it, which made her surprised.

    "Aren''t they Thomas and Alex?"

    Luis nodded, and without averting his eyes from the screen, he replied.

    "Thomas sent a letter to Alex to meet up. Probably to confront him about the matter with Rura."

    *Whoosh*

    Alicia''s figure shed by, and she appeared right beside Luis.

    "Why didn''t you invite me to watch together?" She pouted. Then shrugged. "Whatever. Take out some snacks first!"

    "��" Luis rolled his eyes and sighed. "Mom, you''re not a good influence on my wife!"

 Chapter 202: Lovers Point!

    Malia Pier, East of the Academy City.

    As the silver crescent moon hung suspended in the vast expanse of the night sky, it cast a soft glow over the tranquil night, painting the sky with its gentle light. The shimmering reflection of its slender curve danced upon the water''s surface, mirroring the celestial ballet above. A cool breeze carried the scent of salt and brine, mingling with the crisp night air.

    The rhythmic sound of waves whispered along the seashore, their fingers reaching out to touch the sands with each low tide. A symphony of the ocean yed in harmony with the celestial disy above, creating a serene and mesmerizing atmosphere.

    Silhouettes of distant ships bobbed gently on the horizon, guided by the moon''s ethereal glow. The shoreline, kissed by the foamy fingers of the retreating tides, became a canvas of intricate patterns written in the sand.

    A witness to this beautiful romantic scenery, two figures stood near a seaside viewpoint facing each other.

    The golden-haired boy had a calm expression on his face, but his fists were clenched, showing that he was restraining his anger. The silver-haired boy in front of him stared at him with confused eyes, wondering why he was called there.

    As the silence prolonged between the two of them, Alex couldn''t take it anymore and asked. "Why did you call me here, Prince Thomas?"

    Thomas stared at Alex for a few seconds. Then, taking a deep breath to calm himself, he narrowed his eyes and spoke.

    "Meeting for the first time, Alex Stain. I''m Thomas Aiverson. From your reaction, I guess I don''t need to introduce myself."

    "I know." Alex nodded. "However, I don''t understand your purpose in calling me here. Especially thiste at night."

    As he said that, he also nced around. The only people he could see around them were couples doing intimate things some distance away, which made him feel even more strange. Because he was standing in such a ce alone with another guy.

    ***

    Alicia and Luis, who were watching the video, looked at the two of them with interest.

    "I wonder what Thomas is trying to do," Luis murmured.

    "Hmm, isn''t it obvious?" Alicia asked with a strange expression, as she drank the mana carbohydrate drink.

    "Of course, I know. I just don''t understand." Luis pondered. "Why would Thomas set their meeting ce in that [Lovers'' Point]? If I didn''t know any better, seeing their current atmosphere, I would have thought that he was going to do a love confession."

    "Pffft!" Alicia sprayed out the drink and startedughing out loud. "Haha!"

    "If Rura knew about this, she would cheer for their sessful love life for sure. Hehe~ Fufu~"

    At the end of her sentence, Alicia showed an evil smile, which entranced Luis for a few moments. However, he was quick to snap out of it. As he picked up a tissue and helped Alicia wipe her mouth.

    Alicia looked at him with her beautiful blue eyes, and sweetness filled her heart. She thought of something and asked, "Aren''t you worried that by talking with each other they might clear out their misunderstandings and find out that you were behind all this?"

    "I am not worried; they can never me me." Luis smiled and gave her a confident answer.

    "Why?" Alicia tilted her head.

    "Because all I did was share some rumour that I heard, and rumours hold no guarantee over its uracy. So, even if the rumour ended up being wrong, how am I at fault? After all, it was just a rumour." Luis exined with a shrug.

    Alicia stared at him, then chuckled with a helpless smile. "I should have expected this."

    "Okay, stop talking. We still must see what happened between them. Lily, continue ying."

    At hismand, the video started once again.

    ***

    "I don''t want to beat around the bush. So, I will be direct with you. Answer me truthfully." With a serious expression, Thomas asked. "Alex Stain, are you interested in Rura Wayne from your ss?"

    "!"

    When Thomas saw Alex''s expression of surprise. His face became dark, as he already understood everything.

    "Why are you asking this?" Alex questioned back.

    "You don''t have to pretend in front of me. I already have my answer," Thomas said with gritted teeth. He red at Alex in front of him. Thomas'' fierce eyes said that he had already seen through him.

    "I admit Rura is beautiful-"

    "That''s MISS Rura for you!" Thomas interrupted him with a re.

    Alex''s face contorted in annoyance. Now he didn''t even care if the person in front of him was a prince. He started talking without respect. "Well, Miss Rura is indeed beautiful and if I must be honest, I admit that I have some thoughts about her. But what does any of this have to do with you?"

    Thomas'' breathing became intense as anger surged inside him. He wondered if he should st the head of the bastard in front of him. However, he didn''t lose his reason yet. As he remembered Luis'' warning that Alex had something to do with Sera Dennis. He clenched his fists tightly, as veins popped up in his arms.

    "Of course, it has something to do with me! Rura is my future wife!"

    After hearing his ims, instead of backing down. Alex questioned in doubt. "I am certain that Miss Rura is neither engaged nor she has any boyfriend. So, what is the basis of your im?"

    His words, full of suspicion, almost broke Thomas'' defence.

    "Nonsense! We are going to marry soon! Don''t you dare try getting close to her!" Thomas warned with his eyes full of fierceness.

    Alex''s deep eyes stared at Thomas as he understood the situation.

    "Ah, I see. You are just here to warn me not to get close to the girl you like. When the two of you are not even in any rtionship."

    As he uttered those words, he also shook his head andughed. "Hehe!"

    "Why are youughing?"

    "I just find it funny when I see a delusional guy like you."

    "What did you say?!" Thomas'' rage red up.

    "I said that I am going to pursue Rura and you can''t do anything about it." With those arrogant words, Alex was about to turn around and leave.

    "White mes!"

 Chapter 203: Thomas vS Alex!

    Upon feeling the intense heat behind him, Alex turned around and his eyes widened in shock. An orb of white mes, twice the size of a basketball, was right in front of his eyes.

    "Fucker!"

    Alex cursed under his breath and crossed his arms to defend himself, as there was not enough time to dodge.

    *Boom! *

    The attack sted him off.

    *Ssh! *

    A loud ssh was heard as Alex fell into the sea.

    "Rura is mine! You little bitch!" Thomas screamed at the top of his lungs. White mes erupted from his arms as Thomas jumped towards the seashore,nding on the sand.

    He took out a long spear from his mana bracelet and inserted it in the sand near him. His eyes stared at the sea in the direction of Alex''s fall.

    "Come out, you shit! I''m going to fucking kill you!"

    He screamed with bloodshot eyes.

    Soon after, a wet figure swam back to the shore. His calm eyes stared at Thomas as he brushed his wet bangs backwards. His arms were scorched ck, but all his actions oozed confidence.

    "You messed with the wrong person��"

    Just after that statement left Alex''s mouth, his body erupted in golden mes and under Thomas'' surprised eyes.

    The wounds in Alex''s arms started healing at a rapid rate while also drying him. Within a few seconds, his hands returned to normal. If not for the missing sleeves on his shirt and his changed hairstyle, he would have been the same as when he came for this meeting.

    "You are a Mutated Element user? No wonder the Dennis family is interested in you��"

    When Alex heard this, his eyes became even colder. ''He knows about Sera and me. Is he after Sera, too?''

    He took out a low-grade magic sword from his mana bracelet and took on a sword stance. This was the only magic sword he had at this moment and that, too, was something he received from Sera.

    The next moment, the golden mes surrounding Alex swirled, and rushed towards the magic sword, covering it in a golden brilliance.

    "I shall kill you today!"

    Alex didn''t care if his opponent was the prince of the Aiverson Empire. A man who dares covets his woman should be killed. As for the problems after that, Alex hadn''t thought about it. His mind was preupied with the thoughts of killing Thomas.

    "Haha!" Thomasughed angrily.

    "Let''s see how you do that!"

    His White mes covered arms rotated the spear, as his legs sped towards Alex, intending to attack him.

    Alex, who was already taking a sword stance. He stared at the approaching Thomas and shed out.

    *sh! *

    The golden arc sliced through the air with a swift and precise motion, carrying with it a wave of intense heat energy of the holy golden mes.

    As it surged toward Thomas, the shimmering glow of the arc illuminated the surroundings. The air sizzled with the raw power contained within the sh, and the radiant heat was palpable.

    Reacting quickly, Thomas gripped his spear firmly, as the White mes from his arms covered the spear and he manoeuvred the spear with precision.

    *Burst! *

    The golden arc of intense heat energy collided with the sturdy shaft of his spear. The sh produced a burst of dazzling sparks and a resonating hum as the two forces met.

    Thomas strained against the power of the sh for a moment. His white mes acted as a barrier to absorb the heat from the golden mes. Then, using greater strength than before and showcasing his talent in weapon handling. He redirected the energy sh.

    *Kaboom! *

    The golden arc descended upon the stretch of sand on the seashore with a resounding impact, sending grains of sand scattering in all directions. The intense heat energy from the redirected attack scorched the ground, leaving a trail of molten ss-like formations in its wake.

    However, that wasn''t the end. Just after, Thomas redirected the attack. Alex had alreadyunched another attack containing the pure elemental force of his Holy mes.

    ''Is he going to use all his mana in this attack?''

    Thomas was just using a normal spear, and he knew it wouldn''t be able to stand against Alex''s one more big move. So, he didn''t depend on it and used his pure elemental force of the White mes to counter Alex''s attack.

    The collision between the holy golden mes and the white mes created a dazzling spectacle. As the two opposing forces met, a burst of blinding light illuminated the surroundings. The air around them crackled with the sh of forces, creating a momentary standoff between Alex and Thomas.

    When the two mutated elements of fire element met. They created a chaotic dance of colours and energies, filling the space with an awe-inspiring blend of gold and white.

    The water on the shore near them boiled, but the fresh waves cooled them off. The couples and other people from before had already run off when they first heard the explosion sound.

    The sh between the elements continued, each me vying for dominance in a spectacr battle of mutated elements. The air itself seemed to pulse with the raw energy released by this collision. Both Thomas and Alex continued inputting more mana, toe out superior over each other.

    Only when Thomas had already used 60% of his entire mana, did he feel that the golden mes weakening, smirking, he increased the intensity to go for the win.

    Alex had already used 90% of his mana and further continuing this confrontation would have resulted in his loss. So, he stopped channelling his mana and swung his magic sword with all his strength to deflect the remaining White mes.

    "I underestimated you," Thomas said with a deep look. "Not only a mutated element, but your swordsmanship is also powerful. You deserve to be in the Top 20."

    For Thomas'' praise, Alex was expressionless. Then, thinking of something, his eyes brightened, and he mocked with a snort.

    "Heh~ Says the guy who is not even in Top 500."

 Chapter 204: Charisma!

    "Ooh~ He hit a sore spot."

    Luis chuckled.

    "Aren''t you the one responsible for it?" Alicia said, rolling her eyes.

    "It''s fine." Luis waved his hand and picked up the snack to munch on it. "Thomas doesn''t me me anymore. Don''t you remember? He called me his good friend."

    Alicia gave him a nk look, then shook her head.

    "They have caused such a bigmotion. The academy guards must have been alerted by now."

    When Luis heard this, an evil smirk appeared on his face. "They are probably going to be detained. I wonder what their punishment will be."

    ***

    Things proceeded, just like Luis expected. Alex and Thomas were in the middle of their weapon fight when the academy guards came to stop them.

    Blood wounds and scorched marks covered their entire bodies, showing how fierce their fight had been. If not for them being stopped, one of them was probably going to die today.

    As Alex barely had any mana left, he couldn''t use his Holy me to recover from his injuries. So, his state wasn''t much better than Thomas.

    However, since Thomas took a high-grade recovery potion, he recovered in no time. As for Alex, he didn''t have such expensive elixirs, so he could only wait for his mana to recover.

    Regardless of the excuses and various exnations, they tried to make up. The academy guards detained them and took them to get punishedter.

    When the video ended, Luis had a satisfied expression on his face.

    "They didn''t disappoint me, a drama about two guys fighting for their love interest. Oh~ So touching~"

    Alicia also chuckled.

    "It would have been more interesting if Rura was here to see this video with us. I would''ve loved to see her reaction."

    When Alicia said this, Luis also thought that it might be interesting. However, he soon shook that thought out of his mind. "Let''s forget it for now."

    "Anyway, Alicia. How were your teammates?" Luis asked, diverting the topic.

    Alicia also understood what he was trying to do. Not that she was going to insist on it, anyway. After all, it was just a random thought.

    She showed a thoughtful expression and answered his question.

    "Fine, I guess. Our team consists of a boy and four girls, including me."

    "What a lucky guy��" Luis said in a murmur.

    "Hm, did you say something?" Alicia asked, showing a thin smile, which seemed very dangerous in Luis'' eyes.

    "I''m just stating a general teenage boy''s point of view," Luis said, with an uninterested expression. Then, showing an affectionate smile, he continued. "Not that it has anything to do with me. After all, I have such a beautiful wife."

    "Hmm, it''s good that you are self-aware." Alicia nodded with a stern gaze. Then she blinked her eyes and continued speaking about the previous topic.

    "That boy is timid and easily gets scared by the other girls. So, it seemed more like a torture to him, rather than bliss."

    "Is that so? Then he must either have some weird problems or else he is pretending." Luis concluded, to which Alicia also nodded in agreement.

    "Are they all human?" Luis asked.

    "Yeah, Team 5 is an all-human team." Alicia nodded and asked. "What about Team 3?"

    Luis was lost in thought for a few seconds, and then he answered. "Well, I have to say my team is full of peculiar people."

    "Oh? How so?" Alicia became interested.

    "We got a dwarven girl who is quite a cheerful type. She is like a subversion of Diana."

    "Ah! Are you talking about Bonnie?"

    "You know her?"

    "Well, she is friends with Diana, so I got to know her a little at that ss party."

    "Hm, I see." Luis showed a look of understanding and then continued. "The next girl is an elf. She tries to act cold but is very clumsy. Do you know her? Her name is Sufi Dengza."

    "I don''t remember." Alicia had no impression of this girl.

    "Well, the other two are guys from the Aiverson Empire. One of them is an average guy with an inferiorityplex and the other is a genius hiding his true self under a mask ofziness."

    For his former sentence, Alicia was just listening with an ''I''m listening'' expression. However, when she heard histter sentence, she knit her brows and looked at him with a serious expression.

    "What level of genius?"

    This is what she was more curious about. Among their peers, there are many geniuses. Diana, Rura, Thomas, Sera, Alex. They all are geniuses. She, who has 3 S-grade talents and has a rare ice element, used to consider herself one of the top geniuses until she met her fianc��, who was a monster among the geniuses.

    She still can''t describe the level of shock she received when she found out that Luis was the first dual element user in existence and he also has 5 talents, with four of them being S-grades. (A.N: Alicia doesn''t know about Luis'' Performer (S) talent yet.)

    Which is why when she heard Luis calling someone else a genius. She asked what level of genius he was. If it''s just at the level of other geniuses from their peers. It doesn''t matter. However, if he was more than that, then she was going to be careful.

    Luis didn''t know about Alicia''s thoughts, as he answered her with a nonchnt expression.

    "His level? Well, his current strength is at least above C-rank."

    As soon as those words left his mouth, Alicia stood up in shock.

    "Are you serious?!"

    "Yup."

    "Then his strength must be higher than you?!"

    "Well, yeah."

    "�� Unbelievable." Alicia opened her mouth wide in shock.

    "Only for the time being, though, soon after, I will surpass him. Besides, I never said that he can defeat me." He said in a casual tone, as if he was stating a fact.

    Alicia also didn''t doubt him, because she knew her mysterious fianc�� has a lot of trump cards under his sleeve.

    "So, do you n to recruit him, too?" Alicia asked with a knowing expression.

    "I already did."

    "So fast! How?"

    Luis grinned and answered. "Of course, with my charisma!"

    "��"

 Chapter 205: Deal With Diana!

    As the students of the Oracle Academy were busy preparing for their month-end exam, these few days passed in the blink of an eye and today it was already the day of the first part of the exam. That is the written test.

    At this moment, Luis, Alicia, and Diana were on their way to the academy. Diana, who had been silent all this time, was rubbing her stomach with an ufortable expression.

    Alicia noticed and knit her brows. "What''s wrong with you?"

    Diana turned to Alicia and showed a pained look. "Alicia, I think there''s something wrong with my stomach today. Maybe I am sick."

    Luis, who wasn''t interested in their talk before, heard Diana''s statement and snapped his head to look at her with a shocked expression. His wide eyes gazed at her, then at her stomach in disbelief.

    ''No way! Did Ben already do the deed with her?!''

    ''Isn''t this too fast?! I remember he asked for my advice just a few days ago!'' Luis'' mood became somewhat depressed.

    He was feeling proud as a mentor and a littleplicated as a friend. At this moment, Luis'' feelings were the same as someone who gives a little advice to a newbie for fun, and that newbie ends up surpassing them in just a few days.

    However, all those thoughts disappeared from his mind when he heard Alicia''s response to Diana.

    "It''s not the problem of your stomach, it''s the problem with yourck of preparation for the written test. This disease is called exam sickness. Many students suffer from this disease at the time of exams." Alicia said while rolling her eyes.

    "Hehe~ You caught me." Diana showed a silly grin, but the nervousness didn''t disappear from her face. "Alicia, since you know about my problem. Do you have a solution for it?"

    "You should have studied in the first ce. Now all I can do is cheer for you."

    "No! There must be some way, right?! Just save me this time guys, next time I''ll work hard for sure!"

    "Sorry, it''s toote."

    Her ''cruel'' words shattered thest hope in Diana''s heart. As her heavy steps moved towards the academy. "Am I going to fail?" She murmured in depression.

    At this moment, Luis'' words sounded in her ears like a ray of light for a person struck in the abyss.

    "There might be a way to stop you from failing. Or even get a perfect score."

    "How?" Diana asked as she spun her head towards Luis. Her eyes were full of worship like she was looking at her saviour.

    "Well, it is not a problem as long as you are ready to pay the price," Luis said with a thoughtful expression.

    Alicia looked at him with a t gaze, already having an idea about what he was trying to do.

    "What''s the price, tell me? As long as it''s in my power. I''ll do it." Diana said with a firm expression. She was very desperate to not only pass this exam but also get good marks. That is the goal Olivia set for her and she had warned her that if she failed, then her direct guidance would end right there.

    "It''s simple�� I''ll help you get a perfect score�� but in return," Luis said with a smile, then pointed his index finger at her and continued. "You shall work for me for the entire�� first and second semester."

    At first, Luis had other ideas for convincing Diana to work for him. However, upon seeing such a wonderful opportunity in front of his eyes. He set up a small bait. As long as Diana epts his condition now, he is certain to make her ept working as his subordinate even after graduation.

    "You mean the entire first year?" Diana''s eyes became wide, but she didn''t reject his condition and asked back. "What kind of work will you make me do?"

    "Of course, it''s fighting. What else are you good at?"

    At his rhetorical question, Diana scratched the back of her head, awkwardly.

    It seems. That is indeed the case. Other than fighting, she can''t think of any other thing that she is good at.

    "Don''t worry, I won''t be unreasonable to make you fight against too strong opponents. You can think of it as just fighting on my behalf when I am toozy to deal with some annoying flies."

    Diana thought about his condition and felt that she was the one benefiting from this deal the most. She will get a perfect score on the exam, achieving the target Olivia gave her, and she also gets to fight other people while working for Luis. ''What a win-win situation.''

    "Fine, I agree, but you will have to pay me for the work I do. Also, you can''t force me to work when I am busy."

    "How about 10k for every job done?"

    "That much!"

    "You agree?"

    "Of course!"

    "Great! Then, let''s sign a contract." Luis said this and took out a scroll from his mana bracelet.

    Alicia looked at the contract in Luis'' hand and then at Luis'' face with her deep eyes. ''This contract was prepared in advance. Did he already expect this situation?''

    Diana''s thinking wasn''t soplicated. She just read the entire contract and found no problem with it. So, she signed it without hesitation.

    Since it wasn''t a Mana, or Blood Contract, she wasn''t too worried about being tricked.

    "Here! It''s done!" She handed the contract back to him and asked. "Now tell me, how are you going to help me get a perfect score?"

    {Like this.}

    Diana kept staring at him for a few seconds and asked. "Are you going to do something or what?" She wondered if Luis tricked her with that contract.

    {Didn''t you notice, Diana?}

    "What?"

    Upon seeing the confusion on Diana''s face, Luis pointed towards his lips.

    {See this, my lips aren''t moving.}

    "What, nonsense-"

    Halfway through her words, Diana stopped abruptly, as she stared at Luis with her eyes wide and an excited smile appeared on her face.

    "OMG!!! Full Marks!"

 Chapter 206: Disappointed Olivia!

    After entering the Leviathan ss, they were greeted by the sight of their ssmates engrossed in study materials and doing ast-minute review.

    "Yo! Buddy! Good morning!"

    Ben greeted Luis, and his eyes darted in the direction of Diana.

    "Morning Ben, are you prepared?" Luis asked, feeling amused.

    Ben, whose attention was on Diana, didn''t seem to hear his question.

    "Hey, I''m talking to you. Are you sick?"

    Luis'' lips twitched upon seeing his lovesick friend. Alicia also covered her lips, hiding her faint smile, and stood there watching the show.

    "Huh? Uh- yeah!" Ben said, snapping out of his daze. Then showed a confident grin. "I''m good! Better than ever! I''ve intensified my training! Just looking for a sparring partner."

    When he said this, he also nced at Diana to see her reaction.

    As expected, Diana became interested.

    "Sparring partner? Good! If you don''t mind! I can be your sparring partner!"

    "Really? That''s great!" Ben became so excited that he couldn''t stop his silly grin.

    Luis also smiled and gave a thumbs-up upon seeing his friend happy.

    Diana thought that, just like her, Ben was excited to have a sparring partner. She turned to Luis and whispered.

    "Don''t forget our deal��"

    "Don''t worry."

    After getting his assurance, Diana left for her seat with a confident stride. Their secretive actions aroused Ben''s interest. This matter concerned him a lot.

    He came up to Luis and asked in whispers, "Buddy, what were the two of you talking about?"

    "Are you interested?" Luis raised his brow. Then, seeing his nod. He patted his shoulder and spoke. "I''ll tell youter. This is not the ce to talk about it."

    Ben nodded and didn''t pester him about it. He could feel the seriousness in Luis'' words.

    ---

    Sometimeter, Olivia, who was going to be their invigtor, came to the ssroom, and the exam started.

    Luis read the questions provided on his screen and started answering them one by one.

    Time passed, as it was already 20 minutes past the time since the exam started. Just when Diana was getting anxious. She heard Luis'' voice in her mind.

    {Diana, let''s start.}

    Her eyes brightened, and sheined.

    {Why did you take so much time?}

    {It took a little longer to answer all the questions. Now we can start.}

    {Wait! Have you alreadypleted answering all the questions?}

    {Or else? Stop wasting time and write the answers as I dictate.}

    His words shocked Diana. Hepleted the 3 hours test within 20 minutes! What kind of inhumane person this is? She hasn''t answered a single question yet.

    However, she wasn''t entangled for too long. As Luis had already started dictating the answers.

    ***

    Olivia stood near the podium, observing the bunch of students in front of her. Under her pressure, no student dared to cheat. But when she saw some students'' nervous looks, she wondered if the average of her ss was going to be low this time.

    Above all, the one she was concerned about most was her na?ve disciple, Diana Tres.

    ''Why hasn''t she started writing yet?''

    Upon seeing Diana''s anxious expression, Olivia started having a headache.

    ''Didn''t she study? My constant warnings should have at least motivated her, right?''

    Olivia had some hope in her heart, but even after the 15 minutes of the exam. Diana hadn''t answered a single question.

    ''I shouldn''t have raised her expectations.''

    However, right when it was 20 minutes past the exam. Diana''s anxiousness disappeared and, concentrating on the test, she started writing answers at an amazing speed.

    ''Did she give up and now she ns to write whateveres to her mind?''

    Olivia sighed, feeling a little pity for her stupid disciple. She was considering whether to be lenient with her at the time of punishment.

    Unbeknownst to her, Diana was on fire, as she wrote the answers dictated by Luis through her mind.

    ''Hehe~ Perfect marks.''

    ''Professor Olivia, you are in for a big surprise.''

    Thinking so, Diana showed an excited smile.

    ***

    After the exam ended. The students had free time to prepare for tomorrow''s exam. So, there were no sses.

    Most of the students left with their teammates. Luis was also going to meet with his team but after lunch. So, he had some free time for himself.

    Alicia had left to find her teammates, leaving him alone.

    ''�� What to do. Should I just go to Battle Arena and challenge someone?''

    However, he soon dismissed that thought.

    ''Nah, I can do that when I return to the dorm.''

    ''Should I mess with the plot characters? I haven''t contacted Seraphina yet.''

    Luis pondered, then shook his head.

    ''No, the time''s not appropriate.''

    While Luis was deep in thought, he heard a voice beside him.

    "Buddy."

    "What is it, Ben?"

    "Are you free?" Ben asked.

    "Yeah, I am. Until after lunch."

    "Great! Thene with me! I''ve found a good ce to y and the food there is tasty."

    "�� You just want to ask about the previous matter, right?" Luis showed a knowing smile.

    Ben didn''t expect to get seen through by him so easily.

    "Yes�� Is it alright?"

    "Hmm, it''s fine. But it will be your treat."

    Luis wasn''t short on money. However, the feeling of making your friend treat yourself is very satisfying.

    "No problem!" Ben patted his chest and assured. "It''s all on me."

    "Then let''s go." Luis smiled.

    Diana wanted to thank Luis, but when she saw the leaving figures of Luis and Ben. She stopped herself.

    ''He is with his friend. It would be inappropriate for me to intrude right now. Let''s thank himter.''

    If Ben knew about Diana''s thoughts at this moment, he would have cried for sure.

    ''It''s fine to intrude! Rather, I wee it!''

    However, a missed opportunity is a missed opportunity. Nothing can be done about it now. Unless he can travel back in time, like someone.

    ***

    Inside the Jormundgar ssroom.

    A beautiful green girl sat in her seat with a deep frown on her face. It''s not that her test went bad. Rather, there was something else concerning her.

 Chapter 207: Coded Message!

    Inside the Jormundgar ssroom.

    A beautiful green girl sat in her seat with a deep frown on her face. It''s not that her test went bad. Rather, there was something else concerning her.

    ''Those two-academy staff have been monitoring Alex all these days.''

    ''Now I can be sure that the incident that happened to Alex at the time of the month-end exam is rted to them.''

    ''However, I don''t know the exact details of how and what actually happened.''

    ''I only know about the things that happened after I came into a rtionship with him. I don''t know about the things that happened before.''

    ''Damn it!''

    ''I should have asked everything from him. Now, I am not sure about what to do?''

    ''Should I let the guards kill those two? What if Alex is still in danger after that?''

    Stress had been piling up in her mind for thest few days, making it difficult for her to get a good night''s sleep.

    ''Uh, what I know is that Alex got into some trouble during the Dungeon Rush test and escaped because of luck.''

    ''However, can it be the same this time, too?''

    Sera wondered, then shook her head with a depressed face.

    ''No, there are so many differences this time. How can I let Alex''s fate depend on something like luck?''

    ''I must protect him at any cost.''

    Sera firmed her thoughts and stood up.

    ''I should ask for the Professor''s help.''

    Familiar with the personalities of professors from her previous life. Sera already had a target on her mind. That could help her this time.

    ''If I can convince him. Alex''s safety can be assured.''

    ***

    {�� That''s it.} Lily ryed the information.

    {So, Sera is going to ask for a professor''s help.} Luis said, with no change in his expression. ''Heh, so our protagonist now has a little guardian protecting him. I wonder how long she can protect him.''

    Although Luis wasn''t interested in helping or getting involved in their affairs. He still felt what Sera was doing didn''t necessarily benefit Alex, or rather, she was hindering his growth.

    ''He is a guy with the unique Limit Breaker talent. He thrives in the face of adversity. Sheltering him from those challenges would only stifle, not enhance, his potential.''

    *Sigh*

    ''Doesn''t matter. I had no hope for them in the first ce. Guess I can only do my best.''

    {What about Frank and Rover?}

    {They are back inside their living quarters. They sent a message back to their organization. However, it''s coded. So, I can figure out the contents.}

    {Hm?} Luis raised one of his brows. {Tell me what the message was.}

    {Sure! It goes like this:

    Beneath the moon''s soft, silvery gleam,

    A peacock dances in a radiant dream.

    Feathers fall like moonlit confetti,

    But hyenasugh, their hearts unsteady.

    Beauty weeps, but the dance persists,

    Silver echoes in the moonlit mists.}

    {So, a poem it is.} Luis mumbled as he became deep in thought, trying to see through the message conveyed in the poem.

    ''The silver peacock is most likely referring to Alex. Peacock''s dance should be the Dungeon Rush exam tomorrow. As for the hyenas, it is them and the organization they are part of. Since hyenas live in packs.''

    ''Hyenasugh, so they are confident about kidnapping him. However, what is the meaning behind hearts unsteady part? Are they worried about something that can be an obstacle to their mission? If it is, I can think of several reasons their mission can fail. So, there is no reason for them to be confident.''

    ''Ahh, whatever��'' Luis gave up, thinking.

    Although he was very interested in decoding this coded message. He felt it wasn''t worth the effort.

    {Lily, just keep observing them. As long as their actions affect anyone other than Alex, remind me that instant.}

    {Yes, Master.}

    Luis deactivated his telepathic connection with Lily.

    He brought his focus back to Ben, who was holding a cue stick in his hand, trying to act like an elegant young master.

    Though, of course, he failed very badly.

    "Pffahaha! Stop it, Ben! You will make meugh to death! Hahaha!"

    At first, Luis was surprised. When Ben suggested going to y billiards. His confidence made Luis wonder if Ben was good at it.

    When Ben started ying, Luis realized that he misjudged. He was about to suggest to him to go y something else.

    Right at that moment, Ben started his young master act. Which made it difficult for Luis to hold back hisughter.

    "Hahaha!"

    Ben pretended to be unaffected by hisughter, as he stared at him, hiding his shame.

    "Why don''t you try it too, Luis?"

    "Um?" Luis''ughter stopped for a moment, as he hesitated for a second. Then nodded. "Okay fine. I''ll try."

    When he saw him hesitate, Ben wondered if Luis wasn''t going at it too. ''No wonder he was suggested leaving earlier.''

    Now Ben became enthralled at the thought of seeing Luis fail. That way, his shame will be lessened, and he can gloat, seeing his friend fail just like him.

    Luis had no idea about Ben''s thoughts and even if he knew. He would only pat his shoulder with pity.

    The reason he hesitated was not because he didn''t know how to y. Rather, he was worried about undermining his friend''s confidence.

    Otherwise, with his Performer (S) Talent, will he be afraid to perform? Of course not.

    Luis picked up a cue stick, rubbing the cue, and he bent down to aim.

    "Watch my performance��"

    With those words, Luis made the break shot. Under Ben''s astonished eyes, half the table was already clear.

    He gave Luis a questioning look but of course. Luis didn''t notice him. His focus was on pocketing all the balls numbered from nine to fifteen in the next two shots, and finally with thest shot he pocketed the ck ball, ending the game in a denial.

    "Well, it''s my win," Luis said, as nodded in satisfaction. ''I held back as much as possible. It shouldn''t make people feel strange.''

    He turned back to look at Ben, who was standing there, stunned.

 Chapter 208: Employing Ben!

    Done ying around, it was already time for lunch. So, Luis and Ben went towards the restaurant section.

    After they made their orders and waited for the food to arrive. Luis looked at Ben in front of him, who seemed eager to ask something.

    "Well, ask what you want?" Luis said, as he could see that something was bugging Ben a lot. It didn''t take a genius to guess this was about Diana. Sure enough, the next moment, Ben raised his question under Luis'' knowing smile.

    "What were you and Diana talking about before the exam?"

    Luis'' eyes glinted as he started speaking.

    "We just made a deal, in which she will work for me the entire first year and maybe more, depending on how good she is."

    "What kind of work?" Ben knit his brows.

    "Of course, it''s fighting. She will deal with some flies that I find annoying." Luis shrugged.

    Just when Ben breathed a sigh of relief.

    Luis narrowed his eyes and asked. "What else did you expect?"

    "Nothing, just my misunderstanding." Ben rified. Then, after some hesitation, he asked, "Buddy, is it alright if I work for you, too?"

    "You want to work for me?" Luis showed a surprised reaction. Inwardly, he wasughing in amusement.

    "Yes," Ben nodded with a serious, then averting his eyes he added. "If possible, I want to work in the same department as Diana."

    "What department? I didn''t hire you on behalf of the Suarez Guild. Okay?" Luis immediately exined, so as not to create a misunderstanding for Ben. Even if he has many ns regarding the future, Ben and Diana''s current strength is not enough. That''s why he could only fool them in with this short-term solution.

    "It''s alright, as long as I can work with her." Ben hurriedly stated his intentions. Not that he was trying to hide it from his friend.

    "Even if I give you half the sry, I''m giving her?" Luis tested him.

    "Yes!" Ben affirmed in a firm tone.

    "Well, it''s fine. You two can work together. However, remember Ben. At the time of work, put your love and indecent thoughts aside."

    "Yes, I will-"

    Halfway through his words, Ben stopped abruptly and stared at Luis with an annoyed expression.

    "What do you mean indecent thoughts?! My feelings for Diana are very pure! Okay?!"

    Luis ignored the fierce expression on Ben''s face and said in a nonchnt tone.

    "What pure? Don''t tell me you want to make her your sister, do you?"

    "Of course not!" Ben almost raised his tone, but remembering that they were inside a restaurant, he said in a hushed manner. "What nonsense are you talking about?"

    "Did I say anything wrong? If you don''t have even a bit of indecent thoughts towards her. Then how will your future rtionship be? Remember, she is also a half-beast-kin. Once they mature, they develop a high degree of lust."

    "Stop talking! That''s enough!" Ben''s face was deep red in shame. Of course, he understands what Luis was talking about. However, he didn''t expect Luis to be this frank and raise this topic. "When Ie across that situation, I will deal with it then. Can we stop talking about it, please?"

    For Luis, the sight of a shy big guy begging in front of him was very interesting.

    "Your feelings don''t seem as pure as you said before," he said with an evil grin.

    This time, Ben couldn''t even refute Luis, and this thought made him even more embarrassed.

    "I''ll get you a parfait as a dessert. Can you stop teasing me now?"

    "�� I need a pair. Your sister-inw will get upset if I eat and don''t bring one for her."

    "Well, alright." Ben nodded after a moment of thought.

    Soon their lunch arrived, and they had their meal.

    ---

    After lunch, Luis let Ben sign the same contract as Diana, albeit with lower pay. Then after making Ben purchase two parfaits. He put them inside his pocket space and left to meet with his teammates.

    Private Training Ground number 62.

    Under Luis'' suggestion. Team 3 had rented this private training ground for a day''s use.

    When he arrived at the location, Luis found that only Sufi, and Cobert had arrived. The other two were nowhere to be seen. He didn''t think much about it as there was still time before their appointed meeting time. The three of them had arrived quite early.

    "Hey guys!" Luis waved his hand like he was greeting a very familiar acquaintance.

    Sufi gave a quick nce, then ignored him. Cobert let out a weary breath before greeting him back.

    "Good afternoon, Lu *yawn* is."

    Luis'' lips twitched.

    "What did I tell you before? Don''t yawn while speaking my name?"

    "It''s just a reflex action." Cobert shrugged and gave an excuse.

    ''Reflex my ass! You are obviously pretending!'' Luis felt like scolding this annoying bastard in front of him. However, he immediately calmed himself down. ''No, Luis. People are working for you. How can you get agitated over something so small? There''s no need to fall out with a talented assassin over such a small matter.''

    Luis regained his affection and didn''t care about the petty annoyance.

    "I am curious, Cobert. What do you do at night? That you are always sleepy?"

    Cobert stared at him for a few seconds, then answered.

    "I have insomnia."

    "Oh, why?" Luis probed.

    Cobert wanted to shut Luis'' mouth, but when he saw Sufi''s curious gaze. He thought it was better to give a vague answer so that the other members wouldn''t ask this question.

    "I-I''ve had some terrible experiences in the past. So, sometimes I have nightmares making it difficult to get a good sleep."

    "Terrible experiences? I see, so that''s it." Luis nodded with a look of understanding.

    ''Did he guess?'' Cobert frowned and gave him a stern gaze, signalling him to stop talking about it further.

    Though Luis, of course, ignored it and continued speaking with a sigh of pity.

    "Your crush must have rejected your confession, right? Don''t worry, it happens." With a gentle smile, Luisforted him. "I''m sure you will find someone better."

    "???"

    Cobert: Can someone exin how this guy reached that conclusion?

 Chapter 209: Missing Bonnie!

    Cobert gave Luis a nk look. However, when he noticed Sufi''s pitying nce. He didn''t bother to refute his conclusion.

    ''Whatever, maybe this is better�� If I just say terrible experiences�� some people may get curious and raise further questions. If it''s getting heartbroken by being rejected by your crush, maybe people won''t get suspicious.''

    He thought of several things in his mind and felt that it was for the better. Though, of course, he wasn''t thankful to Luis. After all, his intention was obviously to tease him.

    Luis saw theck of response on Cobert''s face and guessed what he was thinking. However, he didn''t get angry because his purpose was not to tease him in the first ce. He just wanted to confirm if Cobert had already had a lover named Lorna or not.

    In the game story, there wasn''t much mention of her. Most of Cobert''s scenes were after his ckening and when he had turned into aplete viin. By that time, Lorna was already dead. Luis just knew bits and pieces of information from Cobert''s back story. Which wasn''t enough to make hisplete analysis.

    ''From his reaction. At least I''m certain that he doesn''t have a lover or someone he is interested in. This means he hasn''t met that Lorna girl or is probably just an acquaintance and hasn''t developed feelings for her. Whatever the scenario is. For me, it''s good news.''

    ''Now I can make himpletely loyal to me before his ckening. I just have to find and use that girl named Lorna, well.''

    ***

    Time passed, and it was already 15 minutes past their meeting time. However, there was no figure of William or Bonnie in sight.

    "What''s going on? Why haven''t they arrived yet?"

    Luis muttered with a frown.

    "*yawn* Maybe they ditched us," Cobert said, exhaling an exhausted breath.

    Sufi was also getting a little impatient as she turned to them and spoke.

    "I''ll contact Bonnie and ask."

    Luis and Cobert nodded, not stopping her. While she tried to reach out to Bonnie. Luis activated his telepathy skill.

    {Lily, where are Bonnie and William?}

    {Master, I''ve checked through all the security cams. Bonnie wasst seen hanging out with Diana, 45 minutes before. As for William. He left for the dockyard, 2 hours before.}

    "She is not picking up my calls," Sufi said with a thoughtful expression. Her eyes narrowed.

    After hearing them both, Luis''s frown deepened. He did not have a good feeling about this.

    "Try William," Luis said to Cobert. While he asked Lily through telepathy, {Why did William go to the Port? Check who he was in contact with.}

    {Master, all his contact records had already been deleted.}

    {Tsk! Isn''t there any backup data he might have missed?}

    {No Master.}

    Luis felt a little annoyed, and right then Cobert''s voice also sounded. "I can''t contact him either."

    He wasn''t surprised, as he could see that William was nning something and this was something which affected Bonnie too.

    "What should we do? Are we going to look for them or keep waiting?" Sufi asked.

    Cobert kept his mouth shut as he also turned to Luis, waiting for his answer. After seeing Luis'' deep expression, he was wondering if something bad had happened. However, he was contemting if he should ask or not. After all, he''d rather avoid getting mixed up in some trouble.

    "Wait a moment."

    Luis tapped on his mana bracelet and made a call. Sufi wondered if Luis was also trying to call the two, however when she saw the receiver, she was a bit surprised.

    [Hey! Luis! What did you call me for?]

    Sufi and Cobert had a confused expression when they saw Diana''s hologram in front of them. Though, when they heard Luis'' next sentence, they immediately came to a realization.

    "Diana, were you with Bonnie some time ago?"

    [Bonnie? Yeah.] Diana nodded. [We left the ssroom together. I also had lunch with her.]

    Cobert nced at Luis with his listless eyes, wondering. How did he know Diana was with Bonnie? Was it a coincidence? Or something else.

    Sufi didn''t have suchplicated thoughts, she just wanted to know. Why hadn''t Bonnie arrived yet?

    The two of them were silent and stood on the side, waiting for Luis to continue asking.

    "Then do you know where she is? Our team had made an appointment. Now it''s way past the meeting time. She is not here yet and we can''t contact her."

    [Eh? She is not picking up your calls?] Diana was surprised.

    "No, so do you know where she is? Or where she might me?" When Luis asked this question. His tone was serious.

    [Hmm��] Diana was thoughtful for some time. Then said. [If she is not with you, then I don''t know where she might be. At the time we separated, she said she received a message from her team member, and she was going to meet him.]

    ''Him?'' Cobert was sure that he didn''t send any kind of message to Bonnie and from Luis'' reaction, he guessed the same from him. ''Does it mean William is the reason behind his own and Bonnie''s absence?''

    "Did she tell you which team member had messaged her?" Luis asked, although he already had an answer.

    [No, but she seemed a little annoyed at that time.]

    Diana''s answer made them all certain that it was William who was behind this.

    "Thank you, Diana. I''ll let Ben buy you a parfait for your help."

    [Hehe~ There''s no need for that. It was just a small thing.] Diana grinned, then a momentter. She left a sentence and ended the call. [Tell him, I want a Strawberry Parfait.]

    "��"

    Luis turned off his mana bracelet and turned to Cobert and Sufi, who were staring back at him.

    "Miss Sufi, can you go report this matter to Professor Olivia? I and Cobert will go look for William and Bonnie."

    He just wanted to send her away so he could end his matter efficiently. However, Sufi wasn''t going to let him have it easily.

    "Don''t worry, I have recorded all our conversations and sent it to Professor Olivia. I will help you two with this search."

 Chapter 210: Warehouse!

    "You are so efficient."

    Although he praised her. The corner of his mouth kept twitching. ''Should I let her search in a separate location from us?'' Luis thought about it for a moment. Then shook his head with a sigh. ''Well, forget it. Let''s just take her along and see what she is capable of. If there''s any danger, I''ll let Cobert protect her.''

    William couldn''t pose any threat to them. However, since he wasst seen going to the dockyard. Luis had a feeling that William had called for outside helpers.

    This was only his guess for now. As they can only know the actual situation after the investigation.

    {Lily, send button drones to the dockyard and search for William and Bonnie.}

    {Yes, Master.}

    Aftermanding Lily, Luis brought his attention back to Cobert and Sufi. Then said in a sharp voice.

    "Follow me!"

    Without waiting for their response, Luis turned back and started walking out of private training ground number 62.

    Cobert has been observing the changes in Luis'' expressions and his bodynguage. When hemanded them just now, he could see Luis was very confident. He wondered if Luis had some information. However, he didn''t question and quietly followed him out.

    Sufi wanted toin and question him. But the two of them had already started leaving. So she gave an annoyed snort and started matching their pace.

    ***

    After they came out, Luis hailed a hovercar. Then, along with Cobert and Sufi, entered inside.

    "Please, take us to the dockyard! We are in a hurry! So please drive fast!" Luis said, his tone carrying a sense of urgency.

    The driver nodded in assurance. "Don''t worry! I''ll get you there in half the time!"

    "Thank you!" Luis showed a gentle smile. As the driver started speeding up.

    Sufi had a confused expression on her face as she raised her question. "Why are we going to the dockyard?"

    Cobert''s listless eyes also looked at Luis, as he had the same question in his mind.

    Luis didn''t hide it. "William wasst seen going to the dockyard 2 hours ago."

    "Huh��?" Sufi raised her brows in surprise. Then asked with haste. "How did you know?!"

    "Someone I know helped me find it." Luis gave a vague answer.

    Cobert kept staring at him in silence as he pondered. ''I didn''t see him contact anyone other than Diana. When did he ask for someone''s help?''

    No matter how much he thought about it, Cobert had no answer to the veil of mystery surrounding Luis.

    ''The more I try to see through him�� the more mysterious he bes�� and this sense of mystery makes him even more dangerous.''

    Sufi wasn''t satisfied with his answer and wanted to raise more questions.

    Luis noticed this, so he decisively diverted the topic. "How I got the information is not important. What matters right now is that we must find out. What is William trying to do?"

    Result? He seeded.

    Sufi''s expression changed to disdain. As she snorted and spoke. "Is there even a need to think? Isn''t it obvious? That pathetic guy must be trying to take revenge for what happened earlier."

    Luis and Cobert also agreed with her. So, none of them spoke up in William''s favour.

    ---

    On their way, Lily''s voice sounded inside Luis'' mind.

    {Master, I found William. He just went inside a warehouse near the dockyard, along with a few older men.}

    {Did you find their identity?}

    {Yes! They are all criminals from the Aiverson empire with several murder cases on their heads.}

    {How did they even get past the inspection?} Luis felt weird. He didn''t expect Oracle Academy to do such a poor job that they even permitted criminals to dock.

    {They are wearing human face masks to change their appearance and hide their identity. The academy guards haven''t been alerted because they are pretending to be ordinary tourists. I just scanned through their face masks to find their identity.}

    {Ah! I see. No wonder.}

    The people who inspected them shouldn''t be powerful. It''s not surprising that they were deceived. ''Still, it''s disappointing that Oracle Academy made such a low-level mistake.'' Luis shook his head with a sigh. As the number one academy of Alnaur. He expected better from them.

    However, when he thought of future events. He knew it was just the start of such mistakes. A weary breath escaped his mouth. ''If the Academy''s mysterious principal was here. 70% of the incidents that happened inside Oracle Academy could have been stopped ahead of time.''

    Luis stopped thinking about it. As there was no point doing that now. It''s better to focus on finding Bonnie right now.

    {Master, I just scanned. The warehouse is surrounded by a sound barrier and a low-grade anti-reconnaissance array.}

    {So, they do n to do something inside that warehouse.} Already expecting such a possibility.

    Luis told the driver about the new location.

    "Oh, I know that ce. No problem, I''ll drop you there."

    "How long will it take us to get there?" Luis asked.

    "12 minutes." The driver replied.

    "I see." Luis nodded and didn''t urge the driver to go any faster. As he could see that the hover car was already hovering very fast.

    He ordered in his mind. {Send the button drones to follow William and show me the video feed of inside the warehouse.}

    {Yes master.}

    ''Why do these criminals choose locations like warehouses or other storage ces to do something? The same was the case in the Temar Kingdom mission.'' Luis seriously wondered if there was some Criminals Code of Ethics that he didn''t know about.

    While Luis was deep in thought. The hologram of his mana bracelet popped up. Which attracted the attention of Cobert and Sufi.

    "Guys, watch this." Luis'' voice sounded as he shared the screen ess to them. Now they can also watch the video through their mana bracelet. At the same time, he also stuffed two pairs of earpieces in their hands.

    "Why do you want us to watch some video now?" Sufi asked with a frown.

    "It''s the live video feed of what William is doing." Luis'' answer surprised both Sufi and Cobert, but the video had already started ying. So, they could only save the questions forter and bring their attention to the screen.

 Chapter 211: Karlos!

    Inside a warehouse, full of cardboard boxes. William, followed by two older men, entered with a fierce grin on his face.

    They walked a little deeper and finally came to an area with a dozen men standing in ce. All of them were looking at one man, who was standing in front of them like their leader. He had shoulder-length messy brown hair and half of his face was covered by a falcon mask.

    He noticed William''s arrival and ended what he was saying with another sentence.

    "�� Whatever you do, don''t get caught. Is that clear?"

    "Clear!" They all responded in unison.

    William didn''t know what they had been talking about. Not that he cared. When he saw them getting dismissed. He went up to the man with the falcon mask and called out. "Brother!"

    "Let''s talk inside." With those words, he nced at others to not follow them and led William towards a cabin inside.

    After closing the door, that man sat on the chair across the table and took out his falcon mask. What appeared in sight was a face extremely simr to William''s, just a little older and more mature.

    He ced the mask on the table, then shed a gentle smile at William.

    "How you have been doing, Little Bro? How''s the academy faring to you?"

    Yes, this person, who seemed to be the leader of these criminals, was the older brother of William.

    "Don''t even ask�� It''s like hell." William let out a sigh and continued in an exasperated manner. "This academy is nothing but a gathering ce for all those golden spoon geniuses."

    The man chuckled. "Haha~ Well, this year it indeed seems like that." He didn''t deny William''s words, very aware of the reality. "When I was a student here. There weren''t many talents like now."

    William felt a little depressed, but he calmed himself down and started asking all the questions in his mind.

    "You know how surprised I was when you contacted me this morning? What happened to you? Where did you disappear to in thest 3 years? How did you end up joining a criminal organization?"

    Then he remembered something, and sadness shed on his face. "You know the town folks dered you dead when they received the parcel containing your belongings. If not for the piece of paper sent by that hawk containing your mana signature, I would have assumed you were dead, too."

    "Okay, calm down. I''ll answer all your questionster." The man rubbed his temples and asked. "First, tell me what you want to do with that dwarven chick you let my men kidnap."

    When he came here before, he was anticipating the reunion between brothers. So, he sent his men to pick up and entertain his little brother, until he finished dealing with some things.

    He had let them share some information about them with William. So, that he could prepare himself mentally for what they would discusster.

    After all, it was difficult for him, as an elder brother, to disclose his criminal identity to his little brother. He had imagined several scenarios of how William would react.

    However, he never expected his little brother to request his men to kidnap a girl, right after knowing their criminal identity.

    Was there something wrong with his little brother''s brain?

    He didn''t know. Nor did he care.

    After all, as long as his little brother didn''t end up hating him. Everything was good for him.

    "Brother Karlos," As William thought of Bonnie, a fierce look appeared on his face. "That girl threatened to execute me! I can''t let her go!"

    Karlos rubbed his chin and asked, "Did youment on her height?"

    "Yes," William admitted. From Karlos'' reaction, he could guess that the talk about that taboo was true.

    "Hm, I see." Karlos nodded. "Since it''s about that stupid taboo. We can''t let her go." He didn''t want his brother to be executed. That''s why he will do everything in his power to help him.

    "Tell me, how do you want to deal with her? Do you want to kill her or torture her before killing her?"

    William wasn''t terrified by Karlos'' dangerous words. Instead, he showed an excited grin. Like a child who was going to receive his favorite toy.

    "I want to torture her first, brother?"

    After hearing William''s answer, Karlos was silent for a moment. He felt that his little brother must have truly hated her. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have made such an immediate choice.

    "What kind of torture do you want to try on her, William? I''ll apany you. If you want some equipment, you can ask."

    For that chick who threatened his little brother, Karlos felt immense hatred in his heart. How dare she think about executing his little bro? Didn''t he just say something about her height? So, what if there''s a taboo? If you want to be cruel. Then don''t me him for being cruel, too.

    A psychopathic grin appeared on his face. He thought about several ways to torture his brother''s enemy.

    However, he still waited for his brother''s opinion first and didn''t make any suggestions yet.

    William showed a strange color on his face when he heard his brother wanted to apany him. After a moment of hesitation, his expression became firm. As the fierceness returned to his face.

    "Brother, I want to ''R@pe'' her and torture her until she dies!"

    Karlos'' eyes widened for a moment as he wondered if his brother was a paedophile. Since most humans who love dwarven women are teased as such. However, that thought immediately disappeared from his mind. As he knew, it wasn''t his brother''s love but revenge. That was forcing him upon that disgusting chick.

    "I understand, little bro. Don''t worry, we will do what you want and torture her until death."

    William knit his brows and asked, "What do you mean ''we'', brother? Are youing with me?"

    Karlos nodded with a serious look. "Of course! How can I forgive that chick who threatened my little brother? I''ll also torture her along with you."

    "��"

 Chapter 212: Disgust!

    Inside the hover car. The three people watching the hologram were silent. The atmosphere was solemn, and so were everyone''s expressions. Especially Sufi. She was very disgusted by William and his so-called brother.

    Cobert''s eyes were subtle, but his heart was as calm as ever. He has seen a lot of darkness in this world since his childhood. William''s cruel means were nothingpared to what he had seen before.

    Luis wasn''t surprised either. He knew after analyzing William''s personality that he could very well do something like this. However, what surprised him was the existence of this criminal brother.

    {What''s going on Lily?}

    {Master! Karlos was dered dead in the records of the Aiverson Empire. It seems like the people behind him did a good job of faking his death.}

    Luis knit his brows and asked what he was concerned about. {What organization is he in?}

    {I have to look into it, Master. Until now, he has been doing criminal activities under that falcon mask. In his records, there''s no mention of any organization is connected to.}

    Luis was thoughtful momentarily, as the driver''s voice woke him up.

    "We are here... The warehouse you mentioned should be." The driver pointed in his right direction, then showed a look of confusion. "Huh...? Where is the warehouse?"

    He scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "I''m sorry, customers. It seems I took you to the wrong ce. Even though you were in a hurry."

    In his years of working in the academy city. This was one of the most shameful moments for him. He couldn''tprehend how a veteran driver like him could lose his way. That too in a city he has been working for half of his life.

    Luis raised his hand to stop him from further speaking. "No, you brought us to the right ce. Thank you."

    After leaving those words, he got out of the hover car and so did Cobert and Sufi. The driver seemed a little relieved as he left the ce.

    Luis, with his ''Perception'', and Cobert were the only ones who were able to see through the low-grade anti-reconnaissance array. Sufi, like the driver earlier, was looking around in confusion.

    "Miss Sufi, stay close to Cobert and assist him when he deals with the enemies."

    Sufi nodded. Although she wanted to wait for Olivia, she knew it would be toote for Bonnie if they didn''t act right now.

    {Master! William and Karlos left the cabin! They used stairs to go to the underground floors.}

    {Keep monitoring them and if there''s an emergency, use the button drones to stall for time!}

    {Yes, Master!}

    Luis turned back to Cobert and Sufi.

    "We have to hurry!"

    The two nodded with solemn expressions. As soon as they passed the array, Sufi was able to see the warehouse and her eyes had a look of understanding.

    ***

    Inside the warehouse, the group of criminals, oblivious of the iing enemy. Catted about their ns for tonight.

    "Are we going to capture a few women from the city?"

    "Is it okay? The leader told us to lie low for tomorrow''s n."

    "Heh! Newbie, you don''t understand." A man chuckled, then emphasized with an excited grin. "The leader told us not to get caught. He never objected to us from doing anything!"

    "Hahaha! Exactly! So, whose turn is this time?"

    "Should I?"

    "You...! Forget it! Last time, the women you kidnapped were too low quality!"

    "Yeah, it was such a turnoff that my performance was affected!"

    "Hehe~ Should we try young girls this time? We can do the academy girls!" Another man stated with a lustful grin.

    "Not a bad idea! Even the leader let us kidnap a young girl. He is probably going to enjoy her tonight!"

    "For real? Wasn''t that girl a dwarf?"

    "Maybe the leader wants to try something new for a change." Another man said with a lewd smirk. Which, like a chain reaction, caused others to get excited too.

    "Hahaha!"

    "Hehe~ I also want to try dwarven girls!"

    While these disgusting criminals wereughing and nning to kidnap some young girls. They were a littlete to notice that at some point, the entire warehouse was full of mist.

    "Huh? What''s going on? Why is there mist here?" The newbie mumbled in the confusion.

    His words caused others to react.

    "Not good! It''s an enemy attack!"

    "What?"

    One of the criminals shouted.

    "Everyone! Stay close! They want to affect our vision and separate us! Don''t let them seed!"

    After hearing this, they all reacted and stood with their backs facing each other.

    Luis, who was watching everything through perception, was a little surprised. However, he didn''t care.

    "Cobert, Miss Sufi, you guys deal with them first! I''ll go after William and his brother."

    After seeing the two of them nod, Luis left. Unaffected by the vision blocking of the mist.

    Cobert''s listless eyes stared at his back for a few seconds, then he turned to Sufi.

    "Let''s go, Miss Sufi."

    "Should I start with a bang?"

    "As you deem fit," Cobert said with a weary sigh.

    ***

    The criminals who were sticking together. Didn''t notice that hidden under the mist. A figure had already gone past them towards the underground stairs without getting detected.

    "Come out! Don''t think these tricks will affect us!"

    A criminal shouted, but even after waiting for a few seconds, no attack came.

    He whispered to another criminal. "At my signal, blow all the surrounding mist using your wind element. Is that clear?"

    Another criminal said in a hushed voice. "Clear!"

    "Okay, everyone ready�� Now!"

    At hismand, the criminal with the wind affinity was about to use his spell. However, they noticed all noticed orange light inside the mist.

    They felt a little strange, however, when they felt the sudden heat increase. Their faces changed.

    "Oh, no! Dodge!"

    The reminder was toote as the mist dispersed and in front of them was a giant fireball about the size of 5 meters.

    *Kaboom! *

 Chapter 213: Taunt!

    *Kaboom! *

    The sound of the explosion made Luis'' lips curl up. ''So, it was Sufi who attacked first. I thought Cobert would use his assassination skills to deal with them one by one.''

    As soon as he thought about it, he shook his head. ''That guy must be trying to hide his strength in front of Sufi.''

    ''Hmm�� In that case. It should take them a few minutes to deal with them.''

    Because of his Enhanced Instinct, Luis could judge that among the criminals above, none of them was above C rank. So, even if it''s a little dangerous for Sufi, with Cobert along. It shouldn''t be a problem to deal with them.

    While thinking, Luis had alreadye to the end of the stairs and what appeared in his sight were the surprised expressions of William and Karlos, and the unconscious Bonnie bound to the column.

    ''That''s convenient�� Now I don''t have to worry about hiding my strength in front of Bonnie.''

    An excited smirk appeared on his face, as Luis could feel that Karlos'' strength was above the other criminals. Most probably a B-Rank.

    With a flick of his hand, Luis used his illusion magic to hide the stairway.

    ''Now there won''t be any interruption.''

    ***

    "What was that explosion, brother?" William asked, surprised.

    Karlos frowned. ''Did those idiots do something? Or there''s an enemy attack?'' Doubtful, he turned to William and said, "You stay here. I''ll go check the situation above."

    "Okay, brother." William nodded, as he turned to look at the unconscious Bonnie. His ring eyes observed her body with immense lust and rage inside them.

    ''This bit#h humiliated me before. See how I f@ck you to deathter.''

    Although he felt a little strange sharing her with his brother. The rage inside him made that awkward feeling subside.

    ''No matter, I''ll do her first. Then I''ll give her to brother Karlos to enjoy.''

    When he thoughts of the various torture methods he will useter. William couldn''t help but get excited.

    ''I want to see how her reaction will be once she wakes up. Then, no matter how much she begs. I''ll corrupt her.''

    ''Hehe~'' A disgusting grin appeared on his face. At this moment, he also wondered if he should ask for his brother''s help to deal with his other teammates who didn''t treat him any better, either.

    However, right then, a light pat on his shoulder and a familiar voice snapped him from his thoughts.

    "Hey, William, you arete for the appointment."

    Astonished, William snapped his head to see Luis in front of him.

    "Y-You! H-How did you get here?!"

    William asked, his voice expressing his disbelief. His voice also attracted Karlos'' attention.

    Luis didn''t bother to answer him, nor did he care about the surprised expression on Karlos'' face. He unhurriedly went up to Bonnie and touched her.

    The next moment, under both William and Karlos'' dumbfounded expressions. Bonnie disappeared.

    "W-What?! Where did she go?!" William red at Luis with gritted teeth. "What did you do to her, bastard?"

    Luis was taken aback. ''Why does he sound like I am the bad guy here?'' He felt a little aggrieved, but he didn''t want to waste his breath talking to a retarded person. With a slight wave of his hand. Luis used his spell.

    ''Gravity!''

    The next moment, William, who was standing tall, ring at Luis with hateful eyes, screamed.

    "AAAHHH!"

    *Thud*

    He fell on his knees, then slumped to the ground. As cracks appeared on the floor below him.

    "GRRR! Sa�� ve me!"

    William was immobile, unable to move his body. His lungs felt heavy, and he couldn''t even breathe properly. He felt that if he continued to stay under this pressure. He will die.

    ''It seems the 10 times gravitational pressure is too much for him.''

    Luis pondered and stopped himself from using ''Vacuum'' over ''Gravity'' on William. Otherwise, he might die and that would be such a waste.

    "!"

    rmed by his Enhanced Instinct. Luis immediately used ''Spatial Jump'' to disappear and appear at a 20-meter distance.

    *Boom! *

    In his previous location. A wide sh descended on the ground, creating an explosion, and leaving a huge crescent mark.

    Karlos appeared near William. Under Luis'' control, the ''Gravity'' spell did not affect Karlos. That''s why he didn''t understand William''s situation and caused him to let out even more painful screams when he tried to lift him.

    "Bastard! Let go of my brother and I''ll kill you!"

    Luis gave him a strange look and asked, "I''m confused. Are you asking me to let him go or not?"

    Karlos'' bloodshot eyes red at Luis. He raised his both hands and shed down. A cross-shaped wind sh was thrown at Luis.

    With his amazing reflexes, it was easy for Luis to dodge that attack with a nimble movement.

    "So scary~ Are adults nowadays so short-tempered?"

    Luis'' casual and yful tone made Karlos even more angry.

    "Laugh all you want! After saving my brother from you! I am going to chop you into pieces!"

    ''Again, why are you making me look like the bad guy here?'' Luis became annoyed and decided. ''Fine, since you two started it. I''m going to y it till the end. Let''s show you two my viin style, a performer''s style.''

    "Chop me into pieces? Hahaha~," Luisughed. Then his eyes became cold. "Are you worthy?"

    His question rang in Karlos'' ears like a sword piercing his heart, making him remember his past.

    "Shut up! I''ll kill you with my own hands and prove it you how worthy I am! A brat like you is in no position to question my worth!"

    "Heh~" Luis chuckled. Then said, in his voice containing mockery and sarcasm. "At least save your brother from me before you make those stupid ims."

    Then he shook his head. "Well, it doesn''t matter." With a smirk on his face, he taunted. "Show me what you got. At least make it worth my time. Or else I don''t mind making your brother suffocate to death."

 Chapter 214: Unauthentic!

    After hearing that, Karlos was angry as well as frightened. He didn''t want to lose his brother, especially now that he had epted his criminal identity. He even wanted to make his brother join the same organization as him so that he could help him get stronger and get the same benefits as him.

    ''If only he hadn''t taken William hostage! I would have killed him already!''

    Karlos gritted his teeth in frustration.

    Luis smirked. ''As I expected. He doesn''t dare attack me, but this also ruins the fun.''

    "I''ll give you a chance. If you can defeat me. I''ll let your brother go."

    "Are you serious?" Karlos asked with a deep expression.

    ''Of course not.'' Luis chuckled inwardly but still answered with sincerity. "Yes, I never go back on my words."

    "That''s what you said." Karlos clenched his fists and a maniacal grin appeared on his face. "Don''t regret itter."

    As soon as he said that, his body disappeared from his spot, leaving an afterimage as he dashed towards Luis at an insane speed.

    The speed of a B-rank was indeed too much for Luis, a D-rank. It was only because of his ''Perception'' skill that he could see Karlos. However, his body can''t follow those movements with his current rank.

    Although Luis'' agility was lowpared to Karlos, he didn''t even have a movement technique. He had something way better than all that.

    ''Spatial Jump!''

    Once again, Luis dodged Karlos'' attack, appearing a few meters behind him, and responding to him with a shot of Thunder Javelin at his ass.

    "Ah!"

    Of course, there wasn''t much damage, but it did a good job of pissing off Karlos.

    "What kind of skill is that?!"

    Karlos still hadn''t been able to guess that it was a space-element magic spell. After that guess was too illogical and horrifying, as per hismon sense. So, he concluded that it was an S-rank skill.

    He felt envious, and now he had another reason to kill Luis.

    He took out a w-like weapon and attacked him wearing that.

    ''Lightning Spear!''

    Luis knew his physical strength was worse than Karlos. Hence, upfront confrontation would only keep him at a disadvantage.

    So, Luis kept using his Spatial jump in session to keep up with Karlos'' speed and to do continuous attacks on him.

    *Swish* *Swish* *Swish* *Swish*

    His figure kept appearing and disappearing, besides because of his ''Enhanced Instinct'', Luis was able to dodge all his attacks. Which caused Karlos to get extremely annoyed and frustrated.

    ''How is he able to predict my attacks?''

    "Stop running, you coward! If you have the guts, then face me like a man!" Karlos hoped that with his provocation. Luis might get tricked.

    However, only a lightughter sounded in his ears, which brought him chills.

    "Hehe~ Don''t bother with those silly tricks or else I might not y with you and directly kill your little brother."

    As he said that, Luis also sent a fury of attacks. Along with his Lightning Spear, Luis also attacked him with Thunder Javelins and Thunder Bullets.

    Even if the damage from those attacks wasn''t much. As the damage started umting, it affected Karlos.

    Besides, because of concern for William, his focus was divided. That caused him losses under Luis. Not being able to fight with his full strength.

    A dozen Thunder Javelinsnded on him, exploding with a thunderous explosion.

    *Boom! *

    When the smoke dispersed, Karlos'' figure appeared in sight. His clothes were burned and there were many bruises on his body. His state was very embarrassing.

    Inversely, Luis seemed no different from before. If it wasn''t for the mana he consumed, it wouldn''t have seemed like he had a battle at all.

    Karlos gritted his teeth.

    "I underestimated you��"

    "Yeah, you did," Luis smiled and nodded with a calm expression.

    His calmness irked Karlos. He nced at his brother, who, at some point, had fallen unconscious amidst his screams.

    ''I can''t this continue. Otherwise, I might lose. Then not only William, even I will be in danger of losing my life.''

    As he thought so, Karlos took a deep breath. His expression became solemn, and he made a decision.

    ''It seems I can only use ''that'' for this battle. As for the repercussions, I still have the serum for three uses.''

    This decision was going to cost him a lot. However, another nce at the unconscious William made him firm his heart.

    "Heh~ Now you are going to regret ever messing with me, brat!"

    Karlos'' confident deration did not surprise Luis. Rather, it only made him even more excited. ''Is he going to use his trump card or something?''

    "Keep your eyes open and watch this! Since you will never get to see something this interesting once I kill you."

    "Oh? I''m waiting�� Please start."

    Karlos was relieved, seeing that Luis didn''t intend to interrupt him. As for Luis, he had already prepared for the Spatial Jump escape. So, he wasn''t worried about anything. Besides, he wanted to see what could make Karlos so confident. Especially when William is still at his mercy.

    ''Either he gave up on William and is ready to kill me, or he has something that can turn around the situation. Let''s see what kind of surprise he can give.''

    Under his expectant gaze. Karlos let out a roar.

    "You will regret not stopping me, you brat! Now, before your death, let me, a person you deemed unworthy, show you the power I gained."

    "Bloodline Awakening: Primal Transformation! Begins!!!"

    As Karlos taps into his bloodline ability, a surge of primal energy courses through him. His skin ignites with a fiery glow as feathers burst forth, sharp as daggers and iridescent in shades of midnight blue and blood red.

    Bones crack and reshape, forming wings that stretch out, each feather edged with razor-sharp serrations. His hands twist into talons, gleaming obsidian ws hungry for prey. Golden eyes ze with a predatory intensity while a guttural roar echoes inside the entire floor.

    *GRAAOOOO!!!*

    Transformation Complete!!!

    Luis'' eyes were wide as he became slightly surprised. ''His bloodline ability is to transform into a harpy?''

    He was a little envious of him because he was nowhere close to awakening his bloodline. However, a momentter, he narrowed his eyes and his brows furrowed.

    ''No, there''s something wrong�� but what?''

    {Lily, scan him.}

    {Master, his heart rate has almost doubled, and his blood pressure is way too high evenpared to a normal harpy. This transformation will put his body under substantial burden. If he keeps this transformation for long, he will die.}

    Luis didn''t care about his life and death, but there was a greedy glint in his eyes. {A normal bloodline ability shouldn''t have such effects, right?}

    {Yes, Master. As you guessed, his bloodline transformation is unauthentic.}

    When he heard her statement confirming his guess, a wide smile appeared on Luis. ''Hahaha, what a windfall gain!''

    ''I came here to save Bonnie, but who would have expected that I would see a pseudo bloodline awakener here? No matter what, I must catch him.''

    "Are you scared?" Karlos'' creepy voice sounded as he pped his wings to stay airborne. With a swift gesture, he harnessed the surrounding air, gathering it into a swirling vortex of energy.

    "This is something you brought upon yourself! Now no one can save you!"

    In a seamless motion, he released the pent-up force, unleashing a powerful st of wind towards Luis.

    "Wind st!"

    Upon facing the gust of wind st surging towards him with incredible speed, Luis seemed calm. Even if his ''Enhanced Instinct'' warned him of the dangering from that attack. He remained unfazed.

    Just when the attack was about to reach him. Luis conjured up a portal, swallowing the Wind st.

    "Huh��? What!"

    Karlos was stunned, feeling iprehensible by this sudden change.

    "What did you do?!" He questioned.

    But Luis didn''t answer him. Which made him further angry.

    "Good! Since you won''t tell me, let''s see how you deal with a dozen ''Wind sts''!"

    The next moment, a dozen white orbs appeared, floating around Karlos. Which, after a p of his wings, shot at Luis like air cannons.

    Luis was calm as ever, as he conjured around a dozen portals swallowing all the ''Wind sts''.

    "What the��"

    Karlos became shocked. Then he uttered in doubt.

    "That can''t be a skill�� Is that some kind of secret technique? But no�� your element is ''Lightning'', right?"

    "No way, could it be��" He realized something and his eyes widened in disbelief.

    "Now I get it! Lightning isn''t your element!"

    He raised his voice, and in a confident tone, he pointed at Luis.

    "What you have is a mutated element that also has the power of ''Lightning''! Isn''t that, right?" Karlos didn''t know what exactly Luis'' element was, but it didn''t stop him from feeling smug for some reason.

    "��"

    Luis stared at Karlos in silence. Then, a momentter, he pped his hands and said in a in tone.

    *p! **p! **p! *

    "Wow, you found my secret�� Unfortunately, there''s no prize."

 Chapter 215: Tornado!

    Right after, unbeknownst to Karlos, a portal appeared behind him and all the swallowed-up ''Wind sts'' wereunched at him.

    Karlos sneered. "Let''s see how long you can stay arrogant- AAAHHH! GRAAHH!"

    Mid-sentence, the attacks hit him, and his screams faded out under the sounds of explosions.

    *Boom! * *Bham! * *Kaboom! *

    ��

    After the explosions ended, Karlos'' state was once again embarrassed as he suffered several wounds from his own attacks.

    "I will kill you!" Karlos'' eyes were bloodshot, his wings pped, and he flew towards Luis at the speed of sound.

    Luis teleported and mocked. "Ipetent rage."

    Karlos was furious. He once again flew towards Luis and attacked him with his sharp wings.

    *ng! *

    Luis used ''Lightning Spear'' and shed with Karlos. Of course, because of the difference in strength, he couldn''t be at the advantage.

    However, it didn''t matter to Luis. Because he was confident in dealing with Karlos.

    After several shes. Just when Karlos was happy thinking that he was finally suppressing Luis and was about to use his powerful move to give him a major blow. To his annoyance, Luis disappeared again.

    "Fuck!"

    Luis appeared mid-air, but his figure didn''t fall, and he stayed airborne by reversing the gravity around him.

    *Screech! *

    With a shrill cry, Karlos whipped his wings in a circr motion, stirring up the surrounding air into a whirlwind of fury. The winds howled and whistled, picking up debris and dust from the ground, forming a miniature tornado beneath him.

    "Mind Tornado!"

    This tornado even affected the unconscious William. Some debris grazed upon him, leaving several wounds.

    ''Enhanced Instinct'' was warning him, but Luis remained unfazed. He teleported a few meters behind Karlos.

    "Hahaha! You fell for it!"

    Karlosughed out loud. The next moment, another tornado formed right below Luis.

    He just nced at it and teleported again. Now the power of the two tornadoes continued rising. As more and more debris was now spinning along with it.

    "I don''t believe you can run forever!"

    "If this continues, you might hurt your brother," Luis said in an indifferent tone.

    "Hmph, don''t think you can threaten me by using William anymore!"

    Karlos sneered as if seeing through Luis'' conspiracy.

    "Today, you shall die! It doesn''t matter if William suffers some injuries as long as he is alive!"

    He created another tornado, waiting to see Luis'' anxious face. However, to his surprise. Instead of worrying, Luis had a strange smile on his face.

    "That''s what you said!"

    Karlos had a bad feeling as he witnessed Luis''s strange smile. That feeling intensified as he saw two portals appearing at the eyes of those tornadoes.

    When the portals opened. Two bursting sounds sounded, and a chilling sensation crept over him as if confirming his previous premonition.

    Large volumes of seawater gushed out of the portals in tremendous pressure.

    Luis used his gravity to control the seawater to some extent and make it rotate in the same motion as the tornadoes.

    He also used his gravity to further intensify the rotation of the mini tornadoes and created water tornadoes. The power of water tornadoes was ten times more than the previous mini tornadoes.

    The columns shook, and the ceiling was on the verge of fall. Most of the things on that floor were swept by the water tornadoes. If not for the gravity pressure put on him, the unconscious William would have been swept away, too.

    Karlos had a look of horror on his face, as he couldn''t control the tornadoes, and its current power made his expression grim.

    Besides, he discovered another thing, which made him nervous.

    "Your mutated element also has the power of ''Space''!"

    Luis neither answered nor did he deny. So, he regarded it as acquiescence.

    "Hahaha!" Karlos let out depressedughter. "You monster! I hate people like you!"

    Luis didn''t bother to talk nonsense with Karlos anymore. He used the gravity spell to merge the two tornadoes and swallow up Karlos.

    "No, it can''t end like this!"

    "AAAHHHH!"

    Karlos shouted his unwillingness. However, it was toote for him to do anything. Even if he tried to escape, the tornado didn''t let him. He was different from Luis, who could teleport. He was very helpless.

    When the huge water tornado appeared. The ceiling couldn''t hold on anymore and started crumbling.

    Luis, who was in midair. Ignored everything and used his power of lightning from above the tornado.

    "Thunder Javelin!" (x20)

    "Thunder Snake!" (x20)

    The tornado swallowed up all his attacks and the electric sparks surrounded it. At the center of everything was Karlos, who felt like his body was being torn apart. Lightning zapped his body and the flying debris rotating in his motion smashed on his body again and again.

    His body wasn''t under his control. He couldn''t breathe because of the seawater surrounding him. Soon after, his transformation ended, and repercussions came, followed by severe pain. While he was still conscious, he wanted to take the serum, but he couldn''t. He ended up falling unconscious.

    William''s body was about to be smashed by the fall of the ceiling but in the nick of time. Luis appeared beside him and put him inside his pocket space.

    Then he used his Spatial Jump to teleport again and appeared at a safe distance.

    With his perception, he was able to see that Karlos was knocked out. So, he used his gravity, and the tornado copsed.

    He caught the unconscious Karlos using his lightning whip and sent the seawater back to the ocean using portals.

    After doing all that, his deep eyes fell on Karlos'' body and a frown appeared on his face. Apart from his wounds and broken limbs. He could also see blue bulging veins appear on Karlos'' body.

    {Lily, is this because of that unauthentic transformation?}

    {Yes, Master. However, you needn''t worry. Though, he will be in a lot of pain. In his current state, he can still survive for another 3 days. If there are no tranquillizers for the repercussions.}

    {That''s good. As for the tranquillizers...}

 Chapter 216: One Hides! Another Pretends!

    {That''s good. As for the tranquillizers. He probably has them inside his mana bracelet. Let''s check themter.}

    Luis tied Karlos up and put him inside his pocket space. As he did that, he also brought out Bonnie and held her in his hands. Then, he leapt towards the half-broken stairs, while muttering.

    "Well, the rescue isplete�� Now it''s time to meet up with Sufi and Cobert�� They must have been done by now."

    ***

    On the other side, Sufi and Cobert''s battle had also been quite bloody and intense. Though only for Sufi.

    Since Cobert paddled most of the time and hid his strength. The fight took longer than it should have been. However, he cooperated with Sufi well and because of that; they took out the enemies without Cobert showing off his actual strength.

    Cobert''s dagger shed through at the enemy''s neck, the blood sttered, and he ended up copsing. His body was having a seizure.

    "That''s thest one, right?" Sufi''s indifferent voice sounded.

    To which Cobert turned back and nodded. "Should we now go help Luis?"

    "Yes, the ground has been trembling for some time and there have been many sounds of explosions." Speaking of which, Sufi''s eyes couldn''t help but be solemn.

    Cobert had sensed that the enemy Luis was facing was very strong, most probably a B rank just like him. However, he didn''t tell her about that. Rather, even earlier when she attacked the criminals, he would finish or knock them right after, making it look like the opponents were only E-rank.

    Which caused Sufi to misunderstand the true strength of their enemies.

    "Let''s hurry!"

    The two of them rushed towards the direction Luis had left earlier. However, after looking around, Sufi''s brows furrowed in confusion.

    "How do we reach him?"

    Cobert also nced around for a few seconds. Then he realized something, as he had experienced a simr situation in the past.

    ''Could it be�� Luis hid the way, using illusions?''

    Although, he wasn''t certain. But thinking of Luis'' mysteriousness. He felt that it was very likely. He had seen a lot of illusions. When he did the assassination tasks in the past.

    So, now, facing a simr situation. He came directly to such a conclusion.

    He released his mist, thinking of trying to break the illusion. However, by then, the soundsing from the underground floor stopped.

    "Huh? Did his fight end?" Sufi also noticed this, as a frown appeared on his face. "Did he win?"

    Cobert tried to sense it and noticed the presence of two people: one D-rank and an F-rank. ''Seems like he won.''

    Right then, he heard a sound in his mind.

    {Owl, use your mist to block Sufi''s vision for a few seconds.}

    Cobert was surprised for a second but reacted, and he did what Luis requested.

    "What are you doing?!"

    "Calm down. I think the enemy has set up an illusion here. I''m trying to break it." He said in a calm tone. Since he was helping him, anyway. Cobert helped him to the end.

    After hearing this, Sufi calmed down. "I see."

    The sound of footsteps alerted them. Then, under Cobert''s listless gaze Luis, who appeared in front of him holding an unconscious Bonnie. Luis also lifted the illusion as the stairs appeared in their sight.

    ''Sure enough, he used an illusion.''

    After his spection was confirmed, Cobert dispersed the mist. So, Sufi was also able to see them.

    "So, you won," Sufi said in a neutral tone. She wasn''t very surprised as she didn''t know the strength of Luis'' opponent. Otherwise, her reaction wouldn''t have been so nd, and she would surely be dumbfounded.

    Unfortunately for her, no one here was going to reveal it to her.

    "Is Bonnie alright?" she asked as he looked at Bonnie. Her brows furrowed with concern.

    "Yes, she is just unconscious. I think they have used some kind of drug on her." Luis answered and asked. "What about your side? Are you guys done?"

    "Yes, all the opponents have been defeated," Cobert said, his deep eyes staring at Luis, signalling him something.

    "I see," Luis said, and understood what Cobert was trying to express, so he nced at Sufi and added. "Miss Sufi, would you mind taking Bonnie to Professor Cyndy right now? I think it is better to get her checked as soon as possible. In case the drug they gave her ends up being harmful."

    Of course, he was lying. He had already let Lily scan her and was certain that the drug wouldn''t harm her. She would just be unconscious for another 3 to 6 hours if no antidote was given. That''s all.

    He said such things because he wanted to send Sufi away.

    "I see. I''ll take her right now." Sufi''s expression became serious when she heard her words.

    She came up to him and took Bonnie off his hands. While she did that, she also asked. "What about you two?"

    Luis spread his empty hands and spoke. "We will clean up here and check if any enemy is alive whom we can take for interrogation."

    Sufi didn''t doubt them and nodded. She also wanted to help, but Bonnie''s safety was more important.

    So, she left in a hurry.

    ---

    After her figure disappeared, Cobert turned to Luis, as he couldn''t hold back his curiosity.

    "I didn''t expect you to be so powerful. You defeated a B-rank even though you are a D-rank. How?"

    Even if Luis had power beyond his rank. It shouldn''t be so exaggerated, right?

    Luis looked at him from the corner of his eyes and said in a neutral tone.

    "What can I do? Some powerful people hide their strength even at the time of emergency. *Sigh* I can only force myself to work hard."

    Cobert knew Luis was talking about him. So, he rolled his eyes andined.

    "Don''t pretend in front of me. You wanted to solo their leader. Otherwise, you wouldn''t have set up an illusion to stop us from going down."

 Chapter 217: Awe!

    Luis pretended to be confused. "What do you mean? Didn''t you say the enemy set up the illusion?"

    Cobert gave him a nk look and didn''t continue asking. Although, he was curious, but only a little. Besides, he wasn''t sure if Luis would tell him. So, he didn''t bother to waste his breath asking. Instead, he asked another question.

    "What do you want to do with these criminals?"

    Luis raised one of his brows and asked. "You didn''t kill them?"

    "Only six of them have been knocked unconscious. Others are all dead." Cobert said with an expressionless face.

    However, after hearing his statement, Luis gave him a strange look.

    "What''s with that expression?" Cobert asked, wondering if he said something wrong.

    "No, I''m just surprised." Luis shook his head and answered truthfully. "I thought you would kill all of them to hide your secrets. Since, looking at Sufi earlier, I can tell that she doesn''t know the strength of the enemies. You must have tricked her. So, if these criminals are caught by the academy and are interrogatedter. They might find out that you are hiding your strength."

    Cobert nodded, not denying Luis'' words. "Yes, I have thought of the same. That''s why I asked you. If you have any ns for them or not. If not, I''ll just kill them before we hand over their bodies to the academy."

    His expression was calm, and his tone was quite serious when he said those words.

    Who knew after hearing him, a surprised smile appeared on Luis'' face.

    "Wow! Cobert, I didn''t expect you to think so much about the benefit of your employer. I''m so touched."

    ck lines appeared on Cobert''s forehead as his listless eyes gave him a nk stare. He wondered if he should give a few dagger stabs to this annoying bastard in front of him.

    ''No, I must calm down. I need to control my murderous heart.''

    After taking deep breaths, he once again became calm.

    "You haven''t answered my question yet."

    "Tch! Boring." Luis clicked his tongue, dissatisfied by his reaction. However, he still gave Cobert an assuring response.

    "No need to kill them. I do have some use for them. As for your secrets, no need to worry. They won''t be able to tell anybody."

    "Hm, I''ll trust you."

    Cobert nodded. He didn''t probe Luis about his purposes or other things. Because he knew Luis had many mysteries and it wasn''t wise of him to ask him directly. Especially given their transactional rtionship. Where there''s no bond involved.

    "What about William and his brother?" Cobert asked, while ncing in the direction of the stairs.

    Luis exhaled a heavy sigh and said in a serious tone, "When fighting with me, William''s brother used some kind of forbidden drug, and then he did a suicide st along with William. Both their bodies exploded. Not even ashes were left."

    "What the��?" Cobert''s lips twitched. He could see that Luis didn''t even bother to give it a deep thought before making up that nonsense excuse.

    Luis shrugged and raised his head towards the ceiling of the warehouse. Then said in a deep voice full of emotion.

    "Brothers'' Love�� How can we understand?"

    Cobert stared at him with a t gaze. As he let out a weary breath. ''Seriously, why the hell did I get teamed up with him?'' He felt it was all the academy''s fault, otherwise he wouldn''t get tangled with such a guy. ''It must be the curses of all the people I have killed that I''m suffering now.'' As he thought so, he couldn''t help but feel depressed.

    However, Cobert didn''t know that meeting Luis wasn''t a curse. Rather, it was his greatest blessing. Because of this, he had stepped on a different path in this life. Instead of walking in the path of chaos and regret.

    "Is there anything else you want me to do? I can help you carry them." Cobert was talking about living criminals. Since he had already done so much, he didn''t mind helping him further. After all, he didn''t want the academy to get them.

    Luis shook his head and assured. "Don''t worry about it. There will be someone doing that work. Let''s go see Bonnie for now."

    Cobert wondered if the someone in Luis'' mouth was a person from the Suarez family.

    While Cobert was thinking, Luis used his ''Perception'' to ascertain which of the criminals were alive, and then he started walking toward the exit.

    Cobert gave ast nce towards the criminals, then deciding to believe in Luis this time. He followed after him.

    Right after they left, six purple vortexes appeared inside the warehouse, right below the unconscious criminals, sucking their bodies in.

    A satisfied smile appeared on Luis'' face, who was outside the warehouse. Of course, Cobert had no clue about this.

    "Should we get a hover car this time? Or just go on foot?"

    Luis was about to answer him. However, he sensed something and turned his head in a certain direction. Cobert did the same. It was also at that moment he regretted his previous decision. ''I should have killed them. Now, there''s no opportunity.''

    Because the person approaching their direction was none other than Professor Olivia. Upon seeing the two of them notice her, Olivia used her movement technique. Then, within the blink of an eye. She stood in front of them.

    Luis'' eyes lit up. "You have such an amazing speed! Professor!"

    Olivia was stunned when she heard his unexpected praise. She had a gentle smile on her face as she asked, "Are you interested? It''s my movement technique. If you want, I can teach you."

    Luis kept smiling and waved his hand in rejection.

    "No need. What''s the use of having such an amazing technique if you can''t even arrive on time? Isn''t that right, Professor?"

    When she heard this. Olivia didn''t get annoyed or angry. She understood Luis had no interest in her technique. He was just ming her for arrivingte. After their previous experience, she still had somewhat of an understanding of him.

    Which is why she knows Luis is once again disappointed in her.

    She sighed and directly rified her reasons.

    "I was called for an urgent meeting. So, I didn''t see the messages. Some time ago I came across Sufi and helped her get to Professor Cyndy, then I came here."

    Although, she gave an exnation. She still felt bad because she was irresponsible.

    ''I know you are an irresponsible woman.'' Alicia''s angry voice once again rang inside her mind, making her depressed.

    "I see." Luis didn''t care. He was just pretending to be dissatisfied. Rather, he was thankful that she didn''te sooner. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have obtained such interesting research materials.

    "Since you are already here. We shall leave, Professor. We are very tired after the fight."

    Cobert''s expression didn''t change, but he still gave a deep stare at Luis. As if asking, what is he trying to do?

    Olivia nodded in understanding. "Okay, go take a good rest and I hope you can report to me what happened in detailter."

    "Yeah, sure. Cobert will exin everythingter." Luis said, leaving all the bothersome matters to Cobert.

    The light in Olivia''s eyes became a little dull, thinking that Luis probably didn''t want to see her. ''Is this what I deserve? Being hated by my student?''

    "Hmm." She sighed and went inside the warehouse.

    Luis also started leaving, but Cobert, who was frowning, stopped him.

    "Wait, Luis, do you intend to leave like this?"

    "Don''t worry, everything''s fine. I promised you, right? If you want to, you can go help the Professor."

    After saying that, Luis turned around and left.

    Cobert kept looking at his back for a few seconds, then rxed his frown. He went back to the warehouse.

    Then, as soon as he entered, he saw Olivia inspecting the bodies, which almost took his breath away. Fortunately, the one she was checking was already dead.

    He was thinking of how to kill the living criminals under Olivia''s nose. However, just when he was about to look around. Olivia called out to him.

    "Oh? Cobert, you are back?"

    "I''m not that tired. So, I thought of helping you, Professor."

    "Hm, is that so? Well, that''s good." Olivia nodded, then said. "But seriously, you guys�� *Sigh* You should have at least left one of the criminals alive for interrogation."

    "The situation didn''t allow it, Professor." Cobert didn''t change his expression and gave a wless answer.

    However, inwardly, he couldn''t help but be shocked.

    ''Not a single one alive? How so?''

    It took him one nce to find out that all the six unconscious criminals had disappeared.

    ''How did Luis do it? Did someone take them away in such a short time?'' As he thought so, a chill ran down Cobert''s spine. Because he didn''t even notice anyone entering oring out of the warehouse.

    ''Does he have such proficient and powerful subordinates?''

    In Cobert''s heart, he was in awe of his mysterious employer.

    ''Maybe it''s not a bad idea to work for him�� It''s just that he is so annoying that I feel like killing him.''

 Chapter 218: Olivias Investigation!

    "No, I said the wrong thing." Olivia shook her head, realizing her mistake. "You all are safe. That''s already enough."

    Cobert nodded with a listless face. Not caring too much about this matter. Besides, he was already happy that his secret wouldn''t be revealed.

    If Luis and Alicia were here. The changes in Olivia would surprise them very much. After all, the experiences in the Temar Kingdom mission didn''t let them have a favorable opinion of her.

    Olivia checked the other bodies too and observed the battle marks.

    "Did Luis not take part in this battle?"

    She asked a question, which made him feel unexpected.

    "Why do you say that, Professor?" He asked, curious to gain her insight.

    Olivia pointed at the bodies and exined.

    "Luis is a lightning element user, but these bodies don''t have the marks of being electrocuted by lightning attacks. So, either he didn''t fight, or he didn''t use his element."

    "Does it leave unique marks?" This new knowledge he gained surprised Cobert.

    It''s not surprising that he doesn''t know about it. Although he has been an assassin for quite a while and has done several tasks. Lightning is a rare element, after all. So, it''s difficult toe across an opponent with lightning affinity.

    ''Just in case, I should learn to determine and erase the traces left by Lightning Element. I have a feeling that it is going toe in handy in the future.''

    "You haven''t answered my question yet?" Olivia reminded, while feeling a little proud, thinking that she regained her dignity as a teacher. ''I just have to keep it up and make Luis and Alicia change their opinion about me.'' Especially motivated, her thoughts became even firmer.

    To be honest, even she didn''t know about these things before. She got to know about it from Cyndy when she examined the captives'' bodies, whom Luis defeated. Now she used that knowledge to pretend in front of her student.

    "Yes, Professor, it was me and Miss Sufi who fought on this floor."

    Olivia tapped her chin with a thoughtful expression and asked.

    "Hmm, Cobert. Is it convenient for you to exin everything to me in detail now?"

    "I don''t mind, Professor." Cobert nodded with a neutral face. While, inwardly, he cursed. ''Of course, I must do it. That shameless bastard left all these boring things for me to deal with. Well, putting my dissatisfaction aside. Since he is my employer. I can''t say no to such a simple work, now, can I?''

    As he thought so, Cobert calmed down and started exining everything from the start.

    "We were going to meet up��"

    While she listened, Olivia had also turned on her recording. Most of these things, she had already known from the recording Sufi sent, but she didn''t interrupt him.

    ��

    "�� We took a hover car ready to look for them. At that time, Luis said that William was seen going to the dockyard. However, he didn''t tell us the source of that information."

    Since Luis hadn''t refrained him from talking about these things, Cobert also exined it smoothly. Besides, he didn''t know how much or what Sufi had told her. He didn''t want their statements to be inconsistent and arouse suspicion.

    Olivia wasn''t surprised when she heard this. She guessed Luis must have asked for professional help from his family, just like what he didst time when he called the person named Lily.

    "You continue."

    Cobert nodded. "Sometimeter. He asked the driver to change the location to this warehouse."

    ''Hm? Did he use his button drones to track William?'' Olivia pondered, and Cobert''s next words confirmed her thoughts.

    "�� He showed us the live video feed of William." To be honest, Cobert still didn''t know what method Luis used, but he was very curious in his heart. He felt that if he had that method.

    The intelligence-gathering ability of the Night Hawkers will take a big leap forward and the assassination tasks will be a lot easier.

    Thinking of all this, he became a little excited, but it didn''t take long for him to calm down.

    ''I need to think about it before I talk to him about this. Besides, it''s up to him if he wants to share such a method or not. I don''t think the price he will demand would be any less.''

    Cobert then continued speaking, and the more he spoke. The deeper Olivia''s expression became.

    "William''s brother was the criminals'' leader!"

    "William asked his brother''s subordinates to kidnap Bonnie!"

    "The two of them wanted to rape her!"

    When she heard this, Olivia couldn''t hold back her anger and erupted. "HOW DARE THEY!!!"

    She clenched her fists and stared at the corpses of those criminals with fury. Her eyes were zing as if she wanted to resurrect them and kill them again.

    "That''s not all, Professor."

    "What else?!" Olivia turned to him.

    Cobert remained unaffected by her furious gaze and stated calmly.

    "William''s brother seems to be a graduate of the Oracle Academy."

    "What��?"

    After hearing this, Olivia''s eyes widened in shock. Some memories of her past resurfaced in her mind, but she immediately shook it aside and asked.

    "Do you know his name?"

    Cobert nodded and stated. "Karlos... from their conversation, it seemed like he graduated three years ago and had faked his death to be a criminal."

    Olivia frowned, not having an impression of such a person.

    "So, what happened? In the end, where are Karlos and William?"

    "Well, Luis had a tough battle with Karlos and in the end, Karlos exploded,mitting suicide with his brother," Cobert exined the same way how Luis told him.

    "Seriously?" Olivia was dumbfounded.

    "Brothers'' Love, Luis said."

    Olivia''s lips twitched as she asked. "Where did they fight?"

    "Underground floor, Professor."

    "I see."

    Olivia had already noticed the stairs, so she started walking towards it. Cobert also followed her.

    Halfway through, they found out that the rest of the stairway had been destroyed and there was a lot of copsed rubble and debris everywhere.

    "Is this the result of Karlos'' suicide explosion?" Olivia muttered as she took a leap andnded on the ground gracefully.

    Cobert jumped after her andnded beside her smoothly. This set of action from him, made her surprised.

    ''Can an F rank jump from such height with such ease?'' Doubts filled her heart as she decided to observe him more in the future.

    Cobert didn''t know that he had made such a low level mistake and attracted Olivia''s attention. At present, his mind was more focused on the amazing sight in front of him.

    ''Wow! What kind of battle did they have here?''

    ''Did he tell the truth? Looking at the state of this floor. It does seem like the result of a powerful explosion. But why didn''t I hear its sound?''

    Olivia, at this moment, was already observing everything around them. In some ces, she found that the ground was wet.

    ''Hm, water?''

    She turned to Cobert and asked, "Was Karlos a water element user?"

    "I don''t know, but William is a water elemental, at least."

    "Hmm, I see."

    Olivia nodded, thinking William must have fought with Luis, too. So, it wasn''t weird for water to be here.

    She looked around for a moment and didn''t find any more bodies.

    ''It seems the only corpses are there on the upper floor. *Sigh* In the end, we couldn''t find their purpose foring here.'' She didn''t believe it was for Bonnie. Especially after the meeting she just came from some time ago. ''I have to talk about this with Professor Darrin.''

    However, just when she was about to turn around, she noticed something from the corner of her eye and her steps halted.

    Cobert just observed her actions with a curious expression as Olivia moved towards the rubble. She took out something that even made him feel strange.

    "What''s a fish doing here?" Olivia mumbled in a weird tone as she held the dead yellow fish covered in dust.

    "Could it be this warehouse was used to store fish?" Cobert pondered.

    "No, it''s very fresh. Like it was just caught." Olivia, a part-time fishing expert, said with keen insight.

    She thought of something and examined the water on the ground even more carefully.

    "No wonder I thought something was strange earlier. This isn''t normal water, it''s Seawater!"

    "How could that be?" Cobert raised his doubt.

    "Are you doubting the judgement of a fishing connoisseur like me?" Olivia gave him a deadly stare.

    Cobert gulped. "No, Professor, how could I? I was just wondering why there could be seawater and fish here."

    "Hmm," Olivia kept staring at him, then nodded. "I am wondering the same."

    Cobert sighed in relief. Then thought of something and asked. "Professor, is there any mutated element such as Salt Water?"

    "I don''t know. At least, I haven''t heard of it."

    Never in her life, she had heard of someone having salt water as mutated element, but she didn''t dare to be absolute. After all, there are many secrets in this world.

    "Are you suggesting Karlos is a mutated element user?"

    "Yes."

    "Hmm, but this doesn''t exin what''s this fish corpse doing here," Olivia said in a grave tone.

    "��" Cobert opened his mouth to say something but then closed it, thinking it was not worth it.

 Chapter 219: Cyndy Hernes!

    "Hehe, Cobert did a good job." Luis chuckled as he turned off the hologram to stop observing Cobert and Olivia. Yes, he had left a button drone hidden in the rubble.

    "Lily, send the video of Karlos and William inside the cabin to Professor Olivia."

    {Yes, Master.}

    ''With this evidence about William''s crime. Now, the academy probably won''t make his death a big issue.''

    Luis was thoughtful.

    ''But still�� What a mistake�� How could I let a fish slip out?''

    Normally, he wouldn''t have cared about a minor mistake. However, Olivia, being a fishing connoisseur, caught him off guard.

    ''From next time, I shouldn''t let such an ident happen.''

    While he was deep in his thoughts, the hovercar had already brought him back to the academy.

    "Sir, we have arrived at the destination."

    "I see." He snapped out of his thoughts and got out of the hovercar.

    ''Hmm, I''ve recovered a quarter of my mana. Guess, their no need to use a mana potion now.'' Luis entered the academy gate, while he also activated the gravity spell on himself.

    As his body felt the familiar pressure again, his nerves and muscles tensed up, and a drop of sweat appeared on his forehead.

    ''It seems like I''m still tired because of the fight earlier.''

    With no intention of removing that spell from himself, the sweaty Luis walked towards Professor Cyndy''sb.

    ---

    A few minutester, he arrived in front of an enormous building with a vast dome-like ss structure on top.

    "Lily, is this the ce?"

    {Yes, Master.}

    Luis kept staring at the building while thinking in his mind, ''Wow, it looks so much different in reality. In the game, it didn''t look like much.''

    Although, a little amazed, that was it. After being in this world for thest few months, he had already adapted to many things. So, the beauty of such architecture doesn''t surprise him much anymore.

    Luis pushed open the door to enter the building and as soon as he did, he heard a surprised voice.

    "Huh, Luis? Howe you are here?"

    He turned to see a red pony-tailed beauty wearing sses staring at him with a surprised expression.

    "Oh! It''s Miss Rura." Luis saw her and greeted her with a polite smile.

    Rura walked towards him. "I told you already, you don''t have to use honorifics with me. Didn''t Alicia agree the same on ourst dinner?"

    "No way!"

    "Quite blunt with your answer, huh?" She stared at him with narrow eyes.

    Luis shook his head with a helpless smile and answered. "Of course, I must maintain some distance. Otherwise, I''m afraid you might fall for me."

    Rura''s lips twitched, and she stared at him speechlessly.

    Luis straightened his back and stood upright. "Although I know I''m handsome, please don''t stare at me with such intensity. I''m already engaged. This is unbing of a youngdy like you to be interested in an engaged man."

    Rura deadpanned. "I''m not interested in narcissists."

    "You shouldn''t be, either." Luis nodded.

    Rura''s brows twitched. ''Why is he talking like he isn''t one? Seriously, I need to talk to Aliciater. Maybe her fianc�� needs a psychologist.''

    "Luis, can you stop messing with me? Otherwise, I don''t mind inviting Alicia to my t for a one-week-long sleepover."

    They were the second most threatening words Luis had heard in this new life. ''One week?! Hell no!''

    "Am I invited or not?"

    "Nope."

    Horrified, Luis immediately said in a pleasing tone.

    "No, sister-inw, I was wrong. Please, don''t be so cruel to me. Do you want me to call you without honorifics? No problem. Just don''t invite Alicia to any such sleepover."

    Rura didn''t expect her threat to work, but regardless, she was satisfied. "Good, remember your promise."

    Luis nodded and asked. "By the way, why are you here, Rura?" Even though he already knew about it. He still pretended to be oblivious.

    "I have chosen Professor Cyndy as my mentor for direct guidance."

    "Oh?" Luis showed a surprised look. Then his eyes fell on the box of potions she was holding. "Where are you carrying these potions?"

    "Oops! Because of your arrival, I almost forgot. There''s a patient Professor Cyndy is administering. She asked me to bring these potions to her." She said and wanted to leave in a hurry, but she still stopped and asked. "Though you haven''t told me your purpose foring here?"

    Luis smiled and said, "It''s for the same patient you are talking about."

    "Is that so?" Rura wasn''t quite clear about the situation yet. She only knew that the patient''s case had something to do with being drugged. ''Luis must know something about it.'' She thought. However, she didn''t ask. Right now, delivering the potions was the priority.

    "Since that''s the case. Then follow me. I''ll take you there."

    "Thanks!" Luis smiled and spoke. "Let me hold it for you." He took the box from her hand and helped her carry it. Although she didn''t need his help, the box''s weight was nothing to her. She didn''t mind seeing her brother-inw work hard to please her.

    ***

    As Rura lead Luis towards the operating room. They came across an elven girl with a cold face sitting in the waiting area.

    "Miss Sufi."

    Luis'' voice brought her attention to the two of them. Her frown rxed a bit after seeing him.

    "You are here. Where''s Mr. Cobert?"

    "He is with Professor Olivia, helping her with the investigation."

    "Um," Sufi nodded and stopped talking further.

    Rura nced at the two of them with some curiosity after listening to the contents of their discussion, but it wasn''t time to talk about it. So, she took the potions off Luis'' hands and entered the operating room.

    The two sat there in silence, but neither felt awkward about it. Rather, they were morefortable this way. Luis used this time to recover his mana. While thinking of the captured criminals.

    ''Maybe it''s time to focus on that project soon. Besides, because of the pseudo bloodline awakener, I may need to change some of my ns.''

    Sometimeter, Rura, along with a busty pink-haired woman wearing a researcher''s coat, came out of the operating room.

    She looked at Luis and Sufi as the two of them walked towards them.

    Sufi immediately stood up and asked, "Professor, is Bonnie alright?"

    "Don''t worry, she is safe. The drugs they gave her only made her unconscious; it didn''t harm her body." Cyndy assured.

    "Phew~ Thank Yggdrasil." Sufi''s frown rxed as he let out a relieved sigh.

    "However, I would keep her under observation after she regains her consciousness. Although I hope not, but just in case she is traumatized."

    Sufi nodded. Even though she believed Bonnie wouldn''t be traumatized as nothing traumatizing happened, since they saved her in time, and she waspletely unconscious. She still felt it was better to leave it to the professional.

    Cyndy, after observing Luis for a few seconds in silence, turned to Sufi and asked. "Student Sufi, is this student?"

    Facing her doubts, Sufi didn''t let her continue the question and answered with a nod. "Yes, Professor, he is my teammate, and he also took part in the rescue."

    "I see." Upon hearing that, Luis also helped to save Bonnie. A kind smile appeared on her face.

    "Hello, student. I''m Cyndy Hernes. You can call me Professor Cyndy."

    Luis stood up and said in a polite tone. "Nice to meet you, Professor. I''m Luis Suarez. I''ve heard a lot about you."

    For his praise, Cyndy felt like Luis was only being polite. Unexpectedly, Rura on the side, asked with a teasing smile.

    "Oh? What have you heard, Luis? I am interested to know what kind of things you have heard about my mentor."

    "Rura," Cyndy wanted to stop Rura. To not make Luis embarrassed. Although she was quite popr in the field of medicine and alchemy. She didn''t believe everyone would know about her. At most, he might have heard her name. That''s it.

    Unexpectedly, before she could resolve the situation. Luis had already spoken.

    "Of course, I don''t mind."

    "Eh?" Rura didn''t expect such a response. Sufi stared at them in silence and Cyndy wondered, did Luis truly know?

    Luis gestured towards Cyndy and started speaking in a tone full of admiration.

    "Professor Cyndy a.k.a. Cyndy Hernes. From the Hernes family in the southern region of the Aiverson Empire. She is the second daughter of Conness Hernes, the legendary cook. Popr with the nickname ''Cuisine Hunter''."

    Cyndy eyes brightened when she heard his words. However, Luis didn''t stop. He continued speaking as he pointed at Cyndy.

    "Because of your father''s love for cooking and his passion for exploring the ingredients from all over the world. You havee across a lot of herbs and monsters'' parts in your childhood."

    "As you started learning under your father at an early age. This also led to you having an interest in exploring the uses and benefits of those ingredients. You were determined to be a superb cook, just like your father. When an incident happened."

    "STOP!!!" Cyndy interrupted him.

    ***

    Q): Why does Luis know so much about Cyndy, when she was just a supporting character in the game?

    a) There were a lot of details regarding her background.

    b) Cyndy was one of his favourite supporting characters.

    c) He didn''t know about her. He just asked Lily.

    d) Other answers.

 Chapter 220: Sad Past.

    "Don''t speak any further!" Cyndy raised her voice, then hung her head low and said a little weakly. "I don''t want to talk about it!"

    Although Cyndy had no clue how Luis knew about her past in so much detail. When she heard him mention that incident. Sad memories of that day flooded her mind, and she couldn''t help but stop him from speaking further.

    Luis also nodded and stopped speaking. There was no need to poke at her past wounds anymore. He just did that to see her reaction.

    He showed a regretful expression, and with a slight bow, he uttered.

    "If my words hurt you. I apologize Professor."

    After hearing his sincere apology, Cyndy pressed her lips and turned back to hide her distress.

    "It''s okay. I must monitor Bonnie''s state until she regains consciousness. So, I won''t apany you further."

    Everyone understood she was just giving an excuse, but they didn''t expose her.

    Without turning back, she continued.

    "Rura, you can tour them around theb first. When Student Bonnie regains her consciousness. I''ll send you a message."

    Rura nodded and replied. "Yes, Professor." She kept looking at her until she saw her enter the operating room.

    She sighed and turned back to look at Luis while rubbing her forehead.

    "You guy. Why did you have to cause trouble here?"

    Luis shrugged. "Don''t me me. It was you who started it. If you hadn''t tried to embarrass me, it wouldn''t have happened."

    Rura gave him an annoyed look. "I just wanted to tease you a little, but why did you have to make the Professor sad?"

    "I didn''t know talking about her past would make her depressed."

    "Really?"

    "Do I have any reason to lie?"

    "I guess not, but what happened in that incident which made Professor so depressed?"

    "I won''t say. You also saw she doesn''t want others to know about it. So, if you are curious. It''s better to wait for her to tell you everything on her own initiative."

    "��" Rura became silent as she nced towards the operating room and nodded. "I guess you are right."

    Even if she wanted to know about the troubles of her mentor. It was not right for her to probe into it by going against her wishes.

    "Let''s go. I''ll show you around the facility."

    Luis and Sufi nodded and followed her after. Sufi had been silent for the entire time, indifferent to the previous conversation.

    ---

    {Good Job, Lily.}

    {No problem, Master. I''ve already searched and recorded all her data. But the information about that incident you are talking about is not very clear. I just know that her mother died in that incident. I''m afraid only Conness, Cyndy and her elder sister know the exact details.}

    {Hmm.} Luis nodded. He knew about it. To be honest, other than that incident, he had no impression of her background.

    ***

    Inside the operating room.

    Cyndy crouched in a corner, leaning on the wall, as she covered her face with her hands. Luis and Rura''s conversation was within her range of hearing. So, she heard everything. Even though depressed, she was d that Luis didn''t tell others about that incident.

    ---

    Cyndy''s mother, Brenne Hernes, was a herbologist. Under her strict teaching, Cyndy gained a lot of knowledge about herbs. However, she was never interested in making potions and medicines using herbs.

    What she wanted was to make delicious food, just like her father. Which is why she used to quarrel with her mother a lot. Brenne never cared about her dissatisfaction and continued to teach all her knowledge to Cyndy.

    Little Cyndy thought that her mother didn''t care about her dreams and wishes, which made her very resentful towards Brenne. Still, she learned everything that Brenne taught, as she was afraid of getting spanked by her mother.

    Around the year 1274th of the ''Zolotian Calendar'', that is 16 years ago, from the current year, 1290.

    In the southern region of the Aiverson Empire, a pandemic spread out. Even the awakened individuals, who should have been immune to most diseases, were affected by it. Only the people above C rank were safe. The disease was new and the medicine for it hadn''t been found yet.

    Because of that, the royal family issued an order to wipe out several viges to prevent the pandemic from spreading any further.

    Brenne, a renowned herbologist, along with the medical team, went to those key affected areas to help those patients. However, in the process, she herself couldn''t escape the fate of getting affected.

    Cyndy and the rest of the family were heartbroken when they got the news. Because of the restrictions set up by the royal family, they weren''t allowed to meet her.

    Weeks passed by before the news came out that researchers from the Esperia Kingdom had found the cure. The entire empire was in a jovial mood. The family members of those patients who were suffering from the pandemic were relieved, hoping for the recovery of their loved ones.

    Cyndy and her family were also d, thinking that Brenne would be able to recover. However, they were happy too early. Before the Aiverson Empire could receive the cure. The news of Brenne''s death came first.

    Devastated by the news, Cyndy couldn''t bear the loss of her mother and fell unconscious. When she woke up, she became withdrawn, and her bright eyes became dull. Nothing interested her anymore, and she started speaking less.

    A weekter, when the surviving members of the medical team returned, they also brought Brenne''sst letter to her family.

    In that letter, she wrote a lot of things she wanted to do and mentioned her regrets. Among those words, there was onest message that Brenne wanted to send to her daughter, Cyndy.

    The contents were:

    [Dear Cyndy, don''t hate Mom, okay? I know you want to be a chef, like your father. However, I believe that the cuisine you pursue shouldn''t only be tasty but also nutritious. I am sure you could be a far better chef than your father, who makes the best healthy and tasty food.

    My only regret is that I couldn''t be with you to witness your growth with my own eyes. So, forgive Mom, okay?

    Mom loves you~]

    ---

    Tears welled up in Cyndy''s eyes as she reminisced about her past.

    ''I miss you�� Mom.''

 Chapter 221: Bonnie Is Awake!

    "This is where we store the herbs."

    "This is where we process them."

    "That''s the room for refining."

    ��

    Rura took them to tour around the entire facility, of course, except for some areas where Cyndy had prohibited entry.

    "What''s this ce for Rura?" Luis asked as they passed by a room from where a fragrant smell wasing out.

    "You can''t enter there!" Rura raised her voice. Then, afraid that they might misunderstand, she tried to exin. "There is some research data inside which can''t be stolen or damaged, otherwise there will be an enormous loss."

    "It''s okay, we understand, Rura," Luis assured her with a gentle smile. "If it''s not okay to go inside, it''s fine. You can take us to other ces."

    Sufi also nodded beside him, expressing her agreement.

    After she heard this, Rura calmed down and showed a sweet smile. "Thanks for your understanding. Let''s go."

    The two followed her without change in expressions and the girls didn''t notice that a few button drones fell from Luis'' sleeve.

    {Lily, let the drones monitor what''s inside that room.}

    {Yes, Master.}

    From Rura''s reaction, he felt that was the room where she was working on the form of Multiplier Potion.

    Although he didn''t want to steal her hard work, he still nned to see what her current progress was.

    ---

    "This is where Professor has nted some rare herbs that are not avable in the botanical park."

    "Does the stock of herbs used by Professor Cyndye from the botanical park?" Sufi asked.

    "Yes, plus because of her privileges, she doesn''t even need to pay for it," Rura said in a low but excited voice.

    From her words, Luis caught onto something as he asked. "Rura, don''t tell me the reason you became Professor Cyndy''s disciple is to gain ess to those expensive, rare herbs for free."

    A blush appeared on Rura''s face as she dodged Luis'' inquisitive gaze. "Of course not. I just want to learn from her."

    ''You can''t be more obvious.'' Luis rolled his eyes, understanding her purpose. ''She must be anxious. It''s not a surprise after the stimtion I gave her.''

    Rura felt that if she continued speaking. She might say something she shouldn''t. So, she decisively changed the topic.

    "By the way, you haven''t told me yet. How did Miss Bonnis end up in such a state?"

    Sufi and Luis looked at each other for a moment. As Luis gestured for her to speak. Sufi didn''t care as she started recounting everything from the start. Even the beginning of William and Bonnie''s feud.

    The more Rura listened, the more shocked and disgusted she became.

    When she heard how they saved her, Rura went silent. In her eyes, Luis'' impression became even better.

    "So, what happened to those disgusting brothers?"

    Sufi didn''t know about it, so turned her head towards Luis.

    "They are dead." Luis answered calmly.

    They both epted the answer calmly, quite indifferent about their deaths. Rather, they felt it was what they deserved.

    *Beep*

    Rura looked at her mana bracelet.

    "It''s a message from the Professor. She said, Bonnie has woken up."

    "Then let''s go," Sufi said.

    The three of them made their way back towards the operation room.

    ---

    After Bonnie woke up, Professor Cyndy took her to the room adjacent to the operation room.

    "Huh? Are you a professor?"

    "You can call me Professor Cyndy."

    "What am I doing here, Professor?"

    "Do you remember what happened to you before you fainted?"

    "Uh-huh, I was called out by William. He said he wanted to apologize. Then a hand wrapped around my mouth, and I was forced to swallow something. I don''t remember what happened after that."

    When she remembered that, a frown appeared on Bonnie''s face.

    "You alright, Bonnie?"

    Bonnie heard a familiar male voice as she turned to see Luis, Sufi, and Rura enter the room.

    "Luis? Sufi? What are we doing here? What about the appointment?"

    Luis nced at Cyndy and saw her shaking her head. He understood she hadn''t told her. He sighed and turned to Sufi.

    "Miss Sufi, if you please?"

    Sufi nodded and stepped forward. As she met Bonnie''s confused eyes, she gave a blunt answer.

    "You were kidnapped, Bonnie."

    "Huh��?"

    "William and his brother wanted to rape you."

    "What?!!!"

    Bonnie stood up in shock. Her expression mixed with confusion, worry, and a hint of fear. Which Luis felt was normal, considering her situation.

    "I think it would be better for you to exin everything slowly from the start." Rura on the side stated.

    Sufi nodded and started retelling the story once again.

    For the entire story, Bonnie had been in a state of shock and disbelief. After the story ended. Extreme anger surged inside her.

    "That bastard William! I knew he wasn''t a good thing, but I didn''t know he was so disgusting! I should have gone there in the first ce!"

    Bonnie murmured with gritted teeth, then she asked.

    "Where is he?!"

    "Dead," Luis said in a calm tone.

    When she heard this, although dissatisfied that she couldn''t kill him with his own hands, her anger still calmed down.

    "Did you kill him, Luis?"

    "No��" Luis repeated the same excuse he had given before.

    "I see." Bonnie stood up and bowed towards Luis and Sufi.

    "Thank you, Luis! Thank you, Sufi! If it weren''t for you, I don''t know what state I would have been in. Maybe, by now, I would have be a corpse."

    "No, Bonnie, you shouldn''t say such things," Sufi said.

    "But that''s the truth, Sufi," Bonnie said in a firm tone.

    Luis on the side sighed and said, "You are a member of Team 3, Bonnie. It should be obvious that we would save you."

    "Team, huh��" Bonnie raised her head as she looked at Luis with a grateful smile. "Even if that''s the case, since you three have saved me. I will surely repay this gratitude in the future. I, Bonnie Brown, make this vow."

    Luis gave a helpless smile and spoke. "Do what you see fit."

 Chapter 222: Reformers!

    After returning to the dorm, Luis found Alicia inside the meditation room, upon seeing her deep in practice. He didn''t disturb her and went inside his pocket space.

    When he caught those criminals. Luis separated a small section inside the pocket space into a prison. Six criminals were in one chamber and the two brothers were in a separate chamber each.

    He also enclosed the chambers, so they couldn''t get out or see anything outside their chamber.

    Luis sensed that all the criminals and William were still unconscious. Only Karlos was showing signs of waking up.

    ''As expected, of a B-rank. Though the repercussions of using the pseudo bloodline won''t make it easy for him.''

    When he thought of a pseudo-bloodline, Luis licked his lips and teleported inside Karlos'' chamber.

    As soon as his figure appeared again, Luis greeted Karlos.

    "Yo! William''s chicken brother! You awake yet?"

    In response, Luis only received some painful groaning sounds. He observed the state of Karlos'' body andmented with some mockery and disgust.

    "You are quite tenacious, huh? After thest attack. I had expected you would have turned into a stir-fried-roasted chicken. Guess I underestimated the body of a B-rank."

    Luis lied without batting an eye. Lily had already calcted the expected damage from that attack, and everything was under his control. There''s no way he would let such a precious experimental subject die in vain, right?

    *Grr�� rr*

    "Can''t you speak, Karlos?" Luis asked like a curious kid.

    *Grrrr*

    Karlos was angry. He could hear everything clearly, but he was in no state to scold Luis back. The pain was too much, and his body''s condition was worsening every second. If he doesn''t take the serum, his body won''t be able to recover.

    Luis also felt like it was enough messing around, so he stopped the nonsense.

    "Your state doesn''t look good. Don''t you need some medicine? I don''t know what kind of medicine is needed looking at your state. Did you keep some in your mana bracelet?"

    Karlos, who was groaning, became shocked. He heard footstepsing closer as Luis got close to him and grabbed hold of his left hand. He knew Luis was going to get his hands on the serum, but he was helpless to do anything.

    Luis used Karlos'' other hand to tap on the mana bracelet and activate it. Then brought out all the items from the storage.

    ''Hmm, a curved sword, metal wires, a set of five falcon masks, a dozen low-grade elixirs, two small knives, some clothes, and two mystery boxes.''

    Luis put aside the other things and brought his focus to the wooden mystery boxes. He was certain that one of them contained the tranquilizing serum he was interested in.

    When he opened the first box, Luis saw three small jars containing red liquid, which were ced carefully in between the foam.

    "Lily, is this it?"

    {Master, I am 93.567% sure that this potion may have a tranquillizing effect.}

    "Well, we can just test, but before that."

    Luis put the box aside and crouched near Karlos, then said in a gentle voice.

    "Just don''t resist, okay? Otherwise, you may turn into a birdbrain. You knock off harpy."

    Luis'' words horrified Karlos, but he wasn''t in any condition to put up any resistance.

    Helpless, he could only hope that whatever Luis did, it didn''t kill him. Luis raised his hands towards him and used his illusion magic.

    "Hypnosis!"

    After practicing the Ancient Spiritual Meditation, Luis'' mental strength has increased several times. Besides, Karlos had no willpower to resist the illusion spell in his body''s current painful state. So, it only took Luis around a few minutes to gain temporary control over Karlos.

    "Stand up," Luismanded.

    Karlos, who was groaning in pain a few minutes ago, suddenly stood up on his feet. Luis could see Karlos'' body was under a heavy burden and it must have been very painful, but no sound came out of his mouth. Which made Luis certain that his illusion magic was in effect.

    Luis took out one jar of tranquilizing serum and put the rest, along with the box, inside his own mana bracelet.

    "Take this serum and use it how you would normally use it."

    Karlos took the serum from his hands and drank it.

    "Lily, scan and analyze all the changes."

    {Yes, Master.}

    For the first few minutes, nothing happened, but Luis calmly stood there and watched him. Right when the 15-minute mark passed. Luis noticed that the protruding purple veins on his face and neck had started calming down.

    {Master, it''s estimated that it would take around 2 hours for the serum to have theplete effect.}

    "I see." Luis nodded, then asked Karlos. "Can you at least speak properly now?"

    "Yes," Karlos sounded somewhat dazed.

    "In that case, answer some of my questions."

    Luis knew that in the current situation, he could keep Karlos under hypnosis for 3 hours, and that was enough.

    "Are you a pseudo-bloodline awakener?"

    "Yes."

    "Who gave you that power?"

    "The organization."

    "What are they called?"

    "�� Reformers."

    ''As expected, it is them.'' This news didn''t surprise Luis. In the game''s story, they sessfully created an army of pseudo-bloodline awakeners, whom they called Reformers.

    "Since you are still taking these serums, are you an imperfect reformer?"

    "Yes, but as far as I know. There are no other perfect reformers in the organization yet."

    "What exactly are reformers and what is the purpose of your organization?"

    Although Luis already had a general grasp of it from his knowledge of the game. He still wanted to hear the information from Karlos'' perspective.

    "Their purpose is to let the untalented people in this world have a ce to live and, by gaining power, also stand on equal footing to those self-centred prodigies who were blessed by luck."

    Luis'' gaze became t.

    "What bullshit! Are the Reformers also experts at brainwashing? Besides, I am not a self-centred person, okay? Think before you speak!"

    Karlos, who was in a dazed state, nodded.

    "Yes, you are not a self-centred person. You are the most handsome man alive in Alnaur."

    Luis closed his eyes and nodded. "At least you are aware."

    {Master, why are you making him praise yourself?} Lily asked in confusion.

    "What are you talking about? I did no such thing." Luis denied it with a straight face.

    {Huh, but obviously-}

    Lily was about to say something, but Luis cut her off.

    "Lily." He called out her name in a deep voice.

    {Yes, Master?}

    "Do you want me to reset you?"

    His voice was calm, but hearing his words, Lily was horrified.

    {No, please don''t Master! I apologize!}

    Because of her low EQ level, she didn''t expect that Luis would get offended by her question.

    Luis ignored Lily and brought his attention back to Karlos.

    "Do you know who turned you into a Reformer?"

    "It''s the genius scientist named Morbo Vulmuske."

    Luis nodded, seeing that Karlos'' answer was consistent with his knowledge. "What do you know about him?"

    "He is the person with the most knowledge about genes and bloodline factors in this world. It is said that in the field of gic study, he is decades ahead of dwarves and the other species."

    Luis stared at him with no change in expression. He also agreed with Karlos'' words that Morbo Vulmuske was a rare talent.

    Unfortunately, such a talent was in the hands of the Aiverson Royal Family.

    Yes, from the game''s knowledge, Luis knew the ''Reformers'' was an organization supported and funded by the King himself. It''s just that he didn''t dare to legalize that organization for fear of angering other species.

    If the other races knew that the King of the Aiverson Empire allowed the kidnapping of people from other races to create an army of ''Reformers''. There will certainly be another Great War.

    Morbo Vulmuske hasn''t perfected the Reformers yet and the King''s goal is far frompletion. That is why he let the Reformers work as a criminal organization that is deeply hidden.

    Even if they are caught conducting illegal experiments on other races. He could escape the me while also supporting the organization from the dark.

    Then once the Reformer project is sessful. He would have a powerful army of awakeners with the ability to transform into other races in his hands. After transforming, the awakeners would also gain the innate racial abilities of other races, increasing their power by several levels.

    Although Luis knew the goals and the future of the Reformers, he didn''t n to act now. At present, the Reformers are far from perfect. He still has a lot of time to get what he wants.

    If he tries to take over the Reformers, then not only the king would be angry but also, it will be difficult for the Suarez Family to get along with the other races.

    In that case, most of his ns regarding other races would plummet. Loss outweighs the gains for acting early. That''s why, even if he was greedy, he wasn''t in a hurry.

    ''Besides, it''s not even certain yet. If the King would be alive by the time Reformers are inpletion.''

 Chapter 223: Racial Traits!

    In this world, every creature contains mana energy inside their body since birth. However, only after forming a Mana core can they control that energy and start breaking through their body limits to be stronger.

    Every living creature has the possibility of forming Mana Core either by Natural or Artificial Awakening. Regardless of their ''Talent''.

    Contrary to this, Bloodline Awakening is a power that only a minority of people among the awakeners can awaken. Which involves inheriting or unlocking specific abilities or traits passed down through lineages, blessings of the ancestors or Sacred Beasts, a mutation of the parents'' bloodline, and many more.

    It''s often seen as a rare and prestigious urrence, and the awakening may have a range of effects, from enhanced physical prowess to improved elemental maniption or unique magical powers.

    Even the mutation of elements, like the White me of the Aiverson Royal Family. Which is their bloodline ability as their ancestors received the blessings of the Sacred Beast ''White Tiger''. Thus, having a special bloodline.

    In conclusion, even a simple Bloodline Awakening can lead to a vast difference in power between the awakeners of the same rank.

    Because of this reason, bloodline awakeners are often a target of jealousy and envy of the non-bloodline awakeners.

    However, there''s nothing they could do other than try to marry a bloodline awakener so that their children could be bloodline awakeners and pass on the ability in their lineage.

    Now, breaking through thismon sense. The genius scientist Morbo Vulmuske thought of a method that could help normal awakeners get powers simr to a bloodline awakening, which is called a pseudo-bloodline.

    What is a pseudo bloodline and how exactly is it any different from a normal bloodline awakening?

    Unlike normal bloodline abilities, which are hereditary, pseudo bloodline is an artificial way of obtaining bloodline-like powers through gic reformation.

    Different from humans, other humanoid races in this world have racial traits and innate abilities, which gives them an enormous advantage over an average awakener of their same level.

    For example:

    Fairies have a vast amount of manapared to the other races.

    Giants, with their huge and powerful physique, can easily crush opponents of the same rank from other species with their overwhelming strength.

    Harpies have an advantage over their opponents because of their ability to fly.

    Mer-folks can breathe underwater and have an advantage over other races for the resources from sea dungeons.

    Whether Dwarves, Elves, or Beast-Kin, they all have some kind of racial advantage.

    Humans also have racial traits. However, different from other races, it''s not so obvious. The racial ability they have is called ''Adaptability''. The human body has the power to slowly adapt to the environment it''s in.

    With this concept in mind, scientist Morbo Vulmuske tried to convert the gic traits of the other species into bloodline factors and infuse them into the human body, awakening a pseudo-bloodline. Thus, creating the so-called Reformers.

    In his years of research, there have been several experimental results, such as Karlos Park, who had been infused with the bloodline factor of the ability to transform into a harpy. However, the gic infusion is still unstable, making the results a failure every time.

    ***

    "Do you remember the entire process, when you went through gic reformation?" Luis asked.

    Karlos, in a dazed state, shook his head and answered. "I was unconscious for an entire week at that time."

    "Hmm, I see." Luis nodded with a thoughtful expression. ''I guess it won''t be easy after all. Whatever, I would still try. If there''s nothing in the end, then I can try to steal his research or just wait for the right time to abduct him.''

    He shook his head to stop thinking about it.

    "So, what was your specific purpose ining here?" Luis asked, then with a hint of sarcasm, he added. "I don''t think it would have been to help get revenge for your brother, right?"

    To be honest, Luis had a guess in his mind, but he still wanted to confirm it from Karlos'' mouth.

    "Of course not." Karlos shook his head without hesitation. "Reunion with William was just my personal matter. We were called here to support the other team in tomorrow''s mission."

    "Who and what mission?" Luis asked, with a knowing expression.

    "Their code names are Frank and Rover. The mission is to recruit or kidnap a student of the Oracle Academy. The target''s name is Alex Stain."

    "I see," Luis mumbled while thinking. ''It seems the coded message was to ask for support after all. Unfortunately, because of William''s interference, they kidnapped my team member. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have involved myself.''

    ''Will Frank and Rover know that I have eliminated their support team and will make trouble for me? Maybe I should deal with them, too.'' He was displeased when he thought of this. ''*sigh* I wanted them to beat that protagonist a little.''

    Somewhat reluctant to deal with them. Luis asked Karlos another question to decide.

    "Are Frank and Rover aware of your arrival here?"

    To Luis'' surprise. Karlos shook his head.

    "No, they are hiding undercover. So, even the exchange of information and such is secretive and very limited. We were supposed to contact them tomorrow at the time of taking action. So, they don''t know yet who was sent here as support."

    "Well, that''s convenient." A smile appeared on Luis'' face. "That means as long as they don''t know about the support team''s elimination, they will proceed as nned?"

    "Yes." Karlos nodded in affirmation.

    ''Phew~ Guess, I won''t have to deal with them.'' Not that he was afraid, but he didn''t want to be Alex''s guardian. Besides, someone who would have hurt Alicia in the future deserves to be beaten.

    Very satisfied with the result. Luis thought of something and asked.

    "Why did your organization send only B-rank and below members for this mission? Can you truly kidnap someone from the Oracle Academy?"

    "Our purpose is just to kidnap an F-rank, not to start a war with the academy. If we are sneaky enough, everything should be fine. Besides, if someone above B rank tries to infiltrate the barrier. It will alert the Academy Guards. We can''t risk that."

    "Hmm," Luis was thoughtful. Then he asked, "Why exactly is your organization interested in Alex Stain?"

 Chapter 224: Discovery?!

    "I don''t know," Karlos shook his head.

    Luis wasn''t very surprised by his answer. ''Maybe they know Alex''s origin and want to verify the truth about his bloodline.''

    After that, Luis tried to get some more information from Karlos. However, the result wasn''t satisfying. Karlos wasn''t a core member. He was kept in the dark about many things, like Morbo Vulmuske''s location. The only time the two of them came in contact was when he went through the reformation process.

    ---

    Time passed, and the effect of hypnosis had already started fading.

    Luis wasn''t worried about Karlos'' retaliation. After all, his wounded body hasn''t been recovered yet. Besides, even if Karlos wanted to try something. There''s no chance at all.

    The effects of the hypnosis spell disappeared, and Karlos'' body fell with a thud.

    *Thud*

    "Ugh!" Karlos groaned and red at Luis with a look of horror and anger. He didn''t expect himself to fall under an illusion and reveal all the information.

    "I''ll�� kill you!" He said in a low but deep voice.

    "You still haven''t learned your lesson, huh?"

    "Tsk!"

    Karlos'' ipetent rage did not affect Luis. However, the horrified look on his face made Luis click his tongue in annoyance. ''As expected, he still has his memory.''

    ''Hypnosis'' wasn''t a spell from the Ancient Magic Book. He learned it from another spell book for Illusions. So, although it was quite useful for Luis, it didn''t have the amazing effects plus outstanding growth like the other spells from the Ancient Magic Book and had quite a few limitations.

    He can''t erase their memory, so the target will remember everything. He can''t even control them to fight or work for him. Otherwise, the illusion may break. The only thing this spell is useful for now is extracting information. Which disappoints Luis.

    ''If only this spell was a little better, I would have already used it on Sera and rified my suspicions by now.''

    *Sigh*

    "Where�� is my brother?!" Although weak, Karlos'' voice was still firm,ced with hostility.

    Luis, who was already annoyed, heard Karlos'' question and said in a disgusted tone.

    "Your good brother is lustful after the girls from other races, right? To satisfy his desires, I locked him with a female orc."

    "��"

    How could Karlos not understand the implication behind Luis'' words? His gaze at Luis turned fearful and gritting his teeth. He begged.

    "Please let my brother go��"

    "You are in no position to plead or negotiate with me," Luis said in a dismissive tone. Then took out some sedative drugs from his mana bracelet and forcefully fed Karlos.

    "N-No!" Karlos tried to resist.

    "Shut up! Otherwise, I send a female orc to service you too!"

    Luis'' threat was like pouring cold water on Karlos, as he immediately stopped resisting and swallowed the drugs.

    ''Even if I am poisoned to death�� It''s far better than being defiled by a female orc.''

    Luis didn''t know about Karlos''plicated thoughts as he watched him falling asleep within a few seconds.

    "Lily, how long the sedatives will be effective?"

    {Master, he should be unconscious for another 12 to 13 hours.}

    Luis nodded. "Well, that''s fine."

    ''Once he wakes up, let''s just give him enough food to survive and feed him with another dose of sedatives.''

    He used Spatial Jump to teleport out of the chamber and then went towards his worktable. He turned on the hologram and started making a list. For the research equipment and materials that he needs, to work on the new projects.

    "Lily, check the list and see if there is anything that should be added?"

    {Master, I suggest it''s better to add a few more ss containers.}

    "Hmm, add it." Luis nodded. Then after confirming that everything he needed was present. He spoke.

    "Lily, call Dad."

    *Beep*

    A few secondster, Lily''s voice sounded, and her words made Luis frown.

    {Master, there''s no response.}

    "Call Jack."

    *Beep*

    A secondter, the hologram of a blue-haired man appeared in front of him.

    [Young master.] Jack greeted him in a deep voice.

    From his background, Luis could see that Jack was at the guild.

    "Jack, why isn''t Dad picking up my call?"

    [Young master. At present, Master and My Lady are on a dungeon expedition. So, they aren''t avable to receive your call.]

    "Huh? Dungeon Expedition? Both of them went together?" Luis was surprised by this news. A dungeon that needs the involvement of two S-ranks to be cleared up should be of a superior rank.

    [It''s the same S-rank dungeon that Sir David cleared one and a half months ago. I don''t know the exact details, but it seems there is a discovery for which Sir David requested help from Master and My Lady.]

    "A discovery?" Luis'' brows tensed for a moment. He couldn''t recall what this discovery was, as there were no such details given in the game story.

    From what he remembers, around this time Raven guild was very upied with something and they requested a lot of outside helpers. The Aiverson Royal Family also used this chance to pressure the Raven guild and steal a lot of resources from them.

    It irritated Alicia, and she had some conflicts with Urs and Thomas. In a duel, she crushed the siblings one by one and her distrust in others increased further.

    ''Now, with the support of the Suarez family. I guess the Raven guild''s situation is good and the Aiverson Royal Family can''t make any small moves.''

    Although the future has changed, and these things seem irrelevant given the current situation. For Luis,paring their actions from the game knowledge and the reality, it will be easier to guess their ns and make a judgement based on them. That is to avoid unexpected situations.

    "How long has it been since they entered the dungeon?"

    [It''s been nine days and from the message sent by the support team, they should be back within a week.]

    "Is that so?" Luis mumbled. ''I should talk with Dad and Uncle David. After they return.'' Thinking so, he ordered. "Jack, I''ll let Lily send you a list of items. Purchase them all."

    [Should I deliver them to the academy?]

    "No, I''lle back to Tryston City in a few days and receive them in person." After saying that, Luis hung up the call.

 Chapter 225: Sad News!

    "Tsk! No wonder he wanted to rape Bonnie along with his brother." Luis snorted with disgust.

    Just now he was sorting out the things he had collected from Karlos'' mana bracelet when he found the mystery box from before and opened it.

    What came into his sight was a book titled ''My Treasured Collection''. Curious, he opened it and regretted his actions the next moment.

    It contained hundreds of photos of little girls from different species in swimsuits and loose dresses.

    On Luis'' fingers, lightning flickered, and, with a t expression, he burned that book.

    *Sigh*

    ''Ruined my entire mood. Maybe I should go to Alicia and ask for somefort.''

    Then, without hesitation, Luis put his thoughts into action and left the pocket space.

    ***

    The night went by in a sh, and it was already the day of the ''Dungeon Rush'' test for the first-year students.

    Olivia had asked the students of her ss to gather in the ssroom 2 hours before the test.

    "It seems you all are well prepared for the exam."

    "YES PROFESSOR!" The crowd replied in unison.

    Olivia nodded in satisfaction when she saw the students in battle suits and the aura of confidence they were emitting.

    However, when she remembered what happened yesterday and the deeds of one of her students. She couldn''t help but feel sad. Taking a deep breath, she started speaking.

    "You may all feel confused as to why I have called you all here before the exam."

    The students were silent, obviously curious about the reason for being summoned here. They didn''t believe Olivia would call them here right before the test if it wasn''t for an important matter.

    "Yesterday, one of your ssmates met with an unfortunate ident and died."

    As soon as her words fell, the ssroom fell into an eerie silence for a few seconds before there was an uproar.

    "What? How?"

    "Are you serious, Professor?"

    "Guys, William seems to be absent. Could it be him?" Someone among the students reminded and sure enough, they heard Olivia continue.

    "Yes, it''s the student William Park."

    Her voice was deep. She was a little disgusted when she mentioned his name, but no one seemed to have noticed it.

    "How did this happen, Professor?"

    "Yeah, what kind of ident was it?"

    Many students were familiar with William, and the sad news of his sudden death affected them a bit.

    "Renting a boat, he left the waters of the Oracle Academy. However, his boat was capsized because of a sea monster and even his body was not found." Olivia gave a nonsense excuse she thought of on the way here.

    This answer stunned the students.

    "Where was he going?" One of the students asked what was in the mind of several students.

    "We are still investigating." Olivia gave a vague response and didn''t intend to talk about it further.

    As she was standing on the podium, facing the students. She could see all their reactions. Shock, surprise, fear, disbelief, sad, indifferent. Only the reaction of the members of Team 3 was different.

    Bonnie and Sufi were disgusted. Cobert was listless, as always. Luis wasn''t even paying attention to her words; he was busy flirting with Alicia.

    ''Sigh, this guy.'' Olivia was annoyed and sighed helplessly. ''Can you please stop ignoring my words so tantly?''

    Luis seemed to have noticed her piercing gaze, as he turned to look at her and gave a sarcastic smile.

    A wry expression appeared on Olivia''s face as she understood the implication behind his sarcastic smile. She knew it was because the academy was trying to cover up this matter, but she was also helpless.

    At least, she already had a talk with the victim (Bonnie), who agreed to not publicize this matter in exchange for extra resources from the academy. So, there was not much feeling of guilt when she lied.

    "Let''s talk about the exam. Since William is not with us anymore and everyone already has a team, they were assigned to. Team 3 nowcks a member."

    When she said that, her eyes were on the members of Team 3, who were also looking back at her.

    "Professor, is there a problem if we participate with just the four of us?" It was Luis, who asked. As per the rules, there will be a deduction of points for having fewer members, but an ident happened. So, he wondered if the rules could be bent a little.

    "I was getting to that point. Although it''s unfortunate, the points would still be deducted for theck of members."

    "Pity." Luis sighed while wondering. ''I''m curious what kind of expression everyone will have if I bring out William now?''

    ''Hehe, Professor Olivia will be embarrassed for sure.''

    But of course, he didn''t n to release him. It was just a momentary thought. He

    "What about the points for the role he nned to do?"

    "That I wanted to discuss with Team 3. The only advice and help I can give you is to let one person y two roles in the team. If Team 3 doesn''t find it eptable, then there''s no need to do it. You can just forget about those points."

    "No, it''s fine Professor. We ept." Luis said while giving the other members a look. They also nodded and agreed. "We also agree!"

    "Alright! Since that''s over! Then I want everyone toe here and collect these badges from me."

    Olivia took out a box full of yellow round badges and started distributing them.

    "These badges are the protective measures prepared by the academy."

    "As long as it''s yellow, there''s no problem. Orange means you are at risk of elimination, but you can continue with the exam. Red means direct elimination. It will mostly happen when your life is at risk. Once you are eliminated, a protective shield will appear around you and notify us. Then you will be escorted out by the examiners."

    Everyone was already aware of the importance of these badges, as the members of Maki''s faction had found this information from the seniors and shared it with everyone. However, Olivia''s reminder still assured them.

 Chapter 226: Wood Element!

    After distributing the badges and giving a few more reminders. Olivia led the students towards the training ground where all the 600 first-year students were going to assemble before they were taken for the exam.

    When they arrived at the venue, hundreds of students were standing in an organized manner. Luis noticed the students of Behemoth ss were standing in the front, and the students from normal sses had assembled in the back.

    ''So, the elite sses will stand in front.''

    As he thought, Olivia also led them towards the front and told them to stand as per their team''s numerical order. Then she stood facing them 4 meters away from the front row, near Professor Hardy, the instructor of Behemoth ss.

    When the students of Leviathan ss stood in order, Professor Hardy also gave them a curious look. However, soon he noticed there was one less member in the third row. A strange look shed on his face, and then, pondering something, he turned to Olivia to confirm his thought.

    "Professor Olivia, was the victim yesterday a student from your ss?"

    Upon seeing her nod, a heavy sigh escaped his mouth. Although he didn''t know theplete matter. He also received the news that a student from their academy had an ident and died yesterday. Now finding that it was Olivia''s student. He couldn''t think of anyforting words.

    "Um, are you all right?"

    "I''m fine, Professor," Olivia responded, her tone expressing her indifference to the matter.

    However, Professor Hardy misunderstood. He felt Olivia was faking her indifference to mask her sadness. Thought so, he shook his head and sighed.

    ''What a pity.''

    If Olivia knew his thoughts, she would certainly be speechless. Forget sadness. The only feeling she had was disgust when she found out what William tried to do with Bonnie.

    ---

    Luis, who was standing in the third row, turned to his left, and found Cobert yawning.

    "Cobert, you didn''t forget to bring anything, right?"

    Cobert''s listless eyes turned to Luis.

    "No, Lu *yawn* is. I''ve prepared everything you asked of me."

    ''Why is this guy so infuriating?'' Luis'' brows couldn''t help twitching.

    Their conversation also attracted the attention of Bonnie and Sufi.

    "Are you sleepy again, Cobert?" Bonnie asked.

    "Yes, I couldn''t get a proper sleepst night. So, I am feeling a little drowsy right now."

    Luis and Sufi rolled their eyes andined inwardly. ''When are you not sleepy?!''

    "Hehe, then did you bring a pillow along with you? The exam is 12 hours long. Maybe you can take a small nap somewhere." Bonnie yfully suggested.

    However, Cobert''s response was beyond everyone''s expectations. His eyes narrowed, and he said in a serious tone.

    "Please Bonnie, do you take me for a fool? How can I use a pillow inside a dungeon?"

    Not only Luis and the girls, but even the students in the front and back rows looked at Cobert strangely. They all wondered if something was wrong with Cobert. However, Cobert''s following words made them understand it was all their misunderstanding.

    "Don''t worry. I have prepared the best quality sleeping bags and insect repellent." His confident tone made Bonnie and Sufi speechless.

    "You are so thoughtful, Cobert," Luis praised, as his lips kept twitching.

    "Of course, I want to work hard for the team." Cobert patted his chest.

    Luis rolled his eyes and ignored his nonsense. He turned to look at the students of Behemoth ss on his right.

    He saw two familiar faces among them. One was a purple-haired beauty, Seraphina Evansville, the youngdy of the Evansville family. She is one of the core characters of the game that he hasn''t contacted yet.

    ''The user of rare ''Wood'' element.'' Luis remembered how she did a sneak attack on him at the time of the entrance exam. ''I''ll make her payback for thatter.'' He thought so, but didn''t intend to contact her in haste.

    Seraphina is different from Rura and so is her ambition. While Rura seeks to break free from her family''s control, Seraphina desires to have control over everything, including the Evansville family.

    That is why, although Luis was greedy for those dungeons from the Evansville family. He didn''t intend to rush; he was waiting for an opportunity. Besides, the deadline to get those dungeons from the Evansville and the Wayne family was before the end of his first semester. So, there was still time.

    Seraphina felt someone''s gaze on her. However, by the time she could find out who it was. Luis had already stopped looking at her.

    ''Strange�� was I mistaken?'' She frowned.

    Luis shifted his focus to another familiar face in the Behemoth ss. This person was none other than Princess Urs.

    Urs also felt someone gaze at her as she raised her head and noticed Luis looking at her. Luis didn''t avoid her gaze and gave her a polite smile.

    She just ''humphed'' and averted her eyes. How could she give a good face to the person who humiliated her brother?

    Luis kept smiling and didn''t care about her reaction. Soon he sensed something and turned his head.

    ''Finally, here.''

    He noticed the arrival of Fenrir and Jormundgar ss. However, what he looked forward to most was. Whether Frank and Rover would be sessful in Alex''s kidnapping or not?

    ''Well, there are a lot of variable factors this time, and my intervention also helped him indirectly. So, I guess he may have an easier timepared to the game.''

    *Sigh*

    Luis shook his head with regret.

    Both sses arrived and assembled the same as the other sses.

    ''Huh? Rura and Alex are on the same team. Well, that''s a surprise. I thought the top 20 students would be divided separately.'' He thought for a moment, then stopped caring. ''Well, it doesn''t matter.''

    Luis turned his head back towards the normal sses and, after looking around for a bit, he finally found the figure he was searching for. ''There he is!''

    He saw Thomas staring at Alex with a gloomy expression on his face. A wide grin appeared on Luis'' face, and his heart was full of expectations.

    ''Hehe~ This is going to be interesting.''

 Chapter 227: Dungeon Rush Begins!

    Not only Luis. Two other people also noticed these details. Emily''s lips curled up in amusement as she wondered how to get the most fun out of this three-way drama.

    On the other side, Sera was irritated upon seeing Alex on the same team as Rura. However, her concern for Alex''s safety suppressed the irritation in her heart.

    ''No! I need to calm down! I''ve made enough preparations! Even if there are unexpected variables this time around�� Alex will be fine.''

    Before, Sera wasn''t as worried as she was now. The reason for her current nervousness was that this morning, her subordinates reported to her that a first-year student died yesterday.

    Despite the news iming it to be an idental death, she remained unconvinced that it was a mere coincidence. She guessed that Alex''s enemies not only targeted him but also other students.

    ''If my memory serves me right. No student should have died around this time.'' Sera bit her lip in frustration.

    ''Is this another butterfly effect of my regression?!''

    ''Why are things getting out of hand?!''

    Since she couldn''t think of an answer for these changes, Sera''s confused mind was going through tough mental stress. While the person responsible for all this was listening to Professor Hardy''s speech with a nk expression.

    ''If it weren''t for their powerful strength. I would have already created an illusion and skipped this boring speech.''

    When he thought so, it once again recurred to Luis. Just how weak his current strength was.

    ''My foundation after entering D-Rank is already very good, but it''s not enough.'' He sighed.

    If other D-Rank humans knew his thoughts, they would have cursed him for being too greedy. Whether it was his mana core or physique. He was already way strongerpared to the humans of the same rank.

    However, Luis wouldn''t have cared much about their thoughts. Until his physique isn''tparable to that of the Giants and the mana energy to that of Fairies. He would always be unsatisfied with his foundation.

    ''After this exam, I must include a brief trip to the Esperia kingdom on the agenda.''

    After Professor Hardy''s speech was over. All the students were taken to a huge ship, which soon departed for the East Ind.

    ---

    Shortly after the ship started sailing, Alicia separated from her team and came to find Luis.

    "So, why were you looking for me? The test is about to start!" Luis asked in confusion.

    To his question, Alicia remained silent and continued staring at him.

    "Um�� Alicia?" Luis called out her name once again, but she didn''t respond.

    ''Wait! This atmosphere seems a little weird��''

    Something clicked in his mind. ''Could it be?'' He narrowed his eyes as he started assessing the situation.

    ''The sound of waves hitting the hull of the ship and the seagulls flying around, looking for prey. Just the two of us alone in this deck area, as if it were our own little private space. Away from the prying eyes of unwanted passersby�� Where�� we could have our exciting romantic tryst!''

    The more he thought about it, the more outrageous his thoughts became. His eyes widened in excitement and just when he was about to open his mouth to confirm his thoughts.

    Alicia clenched her fists and spoke with determination. "Last time, you won. However, this time I''ll defeat you!"

    Luis felt his brain being short-circuited for a moment. Alicia''s words poured cold water on his excitement and his beating heart calmed down.

    ''Sigh, what was I expecting? Alicia wouldn''t have been so active about it. I should have thought of it.''

    Though disappointed, he still showed a provocative smile and replied.

    "Oh, you are so confident! Why don''t we make a bet?"

    Upon hearing the word ''bet'', Alicia flustered. She wouldn''t say she was absolutely sure of defeating Luis. If it weren''t for him hiding his strength, she knew she wasn''t his opponent yet.

    ''Hmph! This time, there isn''t a direct fight between us. We arepeting for points. Just having powerful strength is not enough. Besides, now that I have the ''Flying'' Skill, I am certain that I can obtain a lot of points.''

    After thinking this through, Alicia nodded with surety.

    "Alright, what are we betting on?"

    "Let''s see��" Luis hummed. "The winner can ask for a favour from the loser."

    When she heard the word favour, Alicia was struck with a sense of d��j�� vu. She hastily said. "Nothing outrageous!"

    "You can count my word." Luis nodded with a sincere smile, which made her relieved, but Alicia didn''t notice the cunning look he gave her afterwards.

    ***

    At the entrance of the Vernos Dungeon, there are six routes. Five of them lead to each zone and thest one leads to the altar. All the students have received this information in advance and have made ns in line with their team.

    That''s why the professors, who were also the examiners for this test, didn''t waste any time exining and let the test begin. Of course, Professor Hardy wanted to say some encouraging words to the students, but Professor Darrin rejected his idea. That made him disappointed.

    As soon as the 12-hour timer for the Dungeon Rush exam started. The students, along with their team members, rushed inside the dungeon, choosing the routes they nned to enter, as if dying any second would be a loss of points.

    Fortunately, they were sensible enough not to start fighting at the dungeon entrance. Otherwise, the examiners would have acted already, disqualifying them from the test.

    After the students, many rescue staff members also followed them in silence. While maintaining enough distance from the students.

    Luis also found the figures of Frank and Rover among the rescue staff. Who followed behind Alex''s team and entered the route leading to the Tech Mech zone. Sera''s team and Thomas'' team also entered the same route.

    Emily''s team and Seraphina''s team went to Evergreen Paradise. As for Alicia, she along with her team went to the raging desert.

    "Let''s get going, guys!"

 Chapter 228: The Poisonous Swamp!

    A shadowy, foreboding forest, its very presence shrouded in mystery and danger. The air is heavy with a highly toxic, noxious stench��making it very difficult for humans below A-Rank to survive without assisting tools or some insurance.

    Tall, gnarled trees with twisted roots loom overhead, their branches intertwined like skeletal fingers reaching out from the murky depths below. A strange purple lizard slithers along the twisted roots, its scales glistening with toxic residue.

    On the surface of the swamp, which is covered with a thick greenish mire. Ominous bubbles intermittently rise to the surface, releasing a noxious gas. The waters themselves are a sickly shade of ck, reflecting the dim light filtering through the dense canopy above.

    Strange, mutated flora cling to the swamp''s edge, their twisted forms appearing to wither and decay even as they continue to thrive in this hostile environment. Vines hang like serpents from the trees, dripping with a viscous, venomous sap that oozes slowly down to the ground below.

    The purple lizard seemed to sense danger from the swamp. However, it was toote for him to escape. Its predator had already arrived.

    *Hiss! *

    In a sudden ambush, the venom alligator lunges, snapping its jaws around the purple lizard.

    *Swish*

    Reacting swiftly, the lizard unleashes its tail,unching a venomous projectile towards the alligator.

    *Spew*

    *Crash! *

    Undeterred, the alligator retaliates, spewing a toxic sludge to defend itself, ultimately swallowing the purple lizard whole. The next second, the venom alligator dived back into the waters, ready to hunt for another prey.

    ***

    Dozens of meters away from there. Four people wearing poison gas masks, poison-resistant gloves and boots had just arrived and witnessed the Arrow Lizard''s death scene.

    "Oh, what a pity. We missed five points."

    Although the words were regretful, the speaker''s tone was unbothered and even listless.

    "No, counting the Arrow Lizard. We missed seven points."

    Another indifferent but feminine voice sounded beside him.

    "Guys, I want to try smashing a Toxigator with my hammer."

    A lively but childish voice sounded, barely suppressing her excitement.

    *Sigh*

    A helpless sigh sounded, attracting the trio''s attention as they all turned to look at the fourth person in unison.

    "What are you sighing for, Luis?" Bonnie asked.

    Luis gave her a look, then shook his head. "Nothing, let''s go start hunting for points. I''ll find you a Toxigatorter. You can try smashing it."

    "Oh, yeah!" Bonnie nodded like an excited child. Although, she knew that she alone wasn''t a match for Toxigator, a D-Rank monster. However, with her team alongside her. She was very confident.

    "Although I have said this many times before in the practice, I''ll remind everyone again. Under no circumstances will anyone get close to the waters. For the monsters such as Toxigators, we will drag or bait them to thend and then fight them. Is that clear?"

    For Luis'' warning, they all nodded with solemn expressions. As for why? There was no need to ask. Luis has repeated this sentence every time he spoke about the poisonous swamp zone.

    ''Those who dare to brave the treacherous waters of the poisonous swamp do so at their own peril, for its depths hold secrets best left undisturbed.''

    Besides, they were also clear about the dangers of poison-type dungeons without being told.

    "Let''s continue walking in the formation. I don''t want to extend the time for this zone."

    The three had no opinion and followed hismands.

    ording to their n, they nned to spend a maximum of two hours in each zone looking for the golden tes and harvesting points. In case they failed to find all the tes. They would join up with other teams from the Leviathan ss and try to snatch the tes from other sses in the remaining time.

    They have already discussed this n with the other teams of the Leviathan ss, and they had no qualms regarding it. Rather, who dares to object to the top student?

    The students of Leviathan ss are very clear. Luis talking about his ns with them is not asking for their opinions but giving them a sense of participation, to not hurt their feelings. They aren''t stupid enough to not be aware of it. Alicia''s situation is simr.

    Some people are resentful because of this. Regardless, does Luis care? No, he doesn''t. In his opinion, it''s just some teenagers'' jealousy. The beatings of society will teach them a lesson in the future. He doesn''t need to bother with this.

    "Cobert!"

    By the time Luis called out his name. Cobert had already acted. Without waiting for any instructions, Cobert''s figure disappeared in a mist and a few metal shing sounds sounded.

    *ng*

    *ng*

    ...

    With his perception, it wasn''t difficult for Luis to follow Cobert''s movements. He saw him waving his hands and shing his daggers to block the iing projectiles.

    "Bonnie, block their exit!"

    Without even looking, Luis already knew who their enemies were from the projectile attack.

    "Leave it to me!"

    Bonnie assured, then took a leap and smashed her huge hammer on the ground.

    "Rock Wall!"

    With her move, huge rocks protruded out of the ground, blocking the three tail-less arrow lizards from escaping.

    "Miss Sufi," Luis called out in a calm voice.

    "I know."

    With an indifferent response. Sufi shot three fireballs, roasting the Arrow Lizards to death.

    Luis scanned the surroundings with his perception and confirmed there weren''t any monsters around them before he stopped rying anymands.

    "Good job everyone! The cooperation is still very good! Let''s keep the heat going!"

    ***

    Monster Information:

    Arrow Lizards (also known as Purple Lizards)

    Power - E-Rank (2 points each)

    Their entire body is very poisonous, and they shoot their tails as projectiles. The attack is very powerful and deadly. But, there''s one major w. They can only shoot their tail once. It takes more than an hour for them to regenerate another tail and, in that process; they are vulnerable. However, it''s better not to touch them as their scales and skin can poison their opponent through contact.

 Chapter 229: Swarm!

    A minuteter, Luis, who was using his perception to scan the surroundings, uttered.

    "On guard, everyone! Arrow Lizards! 40 meters at 1 O''clock and 55 meters at 11! Bonnie will block the ones at 11, while Cobert and Sufi will deal with the rest first!"

    As soon as hismand sounded, the three of them acted instantly.

    Even without Luis'' guidance, Cobert had already found the location of the Arrow Lizards. It''s just that he couldn''t reveal his true strength. So,hehad to act as such. With light steps, he avoided the soil damp in poison and rushed forward.

    *Bam! *

    Bonnie leaped on a tree trunkandafter finding an area with solid ground, she smashed herhugehammerattractingthe attention of Arrow Lizards. Atthe same timeblockingtheir escape by trapping them using the rock wall.

    The Arrow Lizardswhocouldn''t find their enemiesshottheir tails at thehugerock walls.

    *Swish!* (x4)

    The sharp projectiles managed to punch holes through thehugerocks. Cracks appeared, and therockscrumbled. By the time those Arrow Lizards could escape climbing the rubbles. Bonnie had already arrived.

    "Don''t run! Take my hammer!"

    With that said, she swung herhugehammer and smashed at them one by one in a fluid motion until they were all turned into a meat paste.

    *Bang! *

    *Squelch*

    *Bang! *

    *Squelch*

    ��

    "That should be all."

    She looked around to see if there were any more monsters left nearby. Not finding anything, her attention returned to her hammer, whose surface was covered in a slimy greenish liquid.

    "Uh... Disgusting!"

    With a frown, she adjusted her grip on the handleanda clicking sound sounded.

    *Click*

    The next second, the hammer head started vibratingandall the dirty substances slid off the hammer without any resistance.

    "Now that''s better!"

    The frown on her face eased, andshe left in the direction of Luis and the others.

    By the time she arrived there, the battle had already ended. Once again, there was no need for Luis to act, and everything went over smoothly.

    ***

    "Keep moving north as nned. We should arrive at the territory of Poison Moths within a few minutes." Luis said with assurance as he confirmed their location through the map projected in his mana bracelet.

    Although,the academy also provided rough maps of all zones to each team. However, the ones in Luis'' hands were much more detailed. He had purchased them from the exchange centre for 100 merit pointsandter markedmore details manually, ording to the information he bought from the second-year students.

    The three of them nodded and followed his directions, moving in formation like a well-disciplined team. Their speed was neither slow nor fast because their every step wasfullof caution.

    Everyone was very well aware that searching for the golden te in this poisonous swamp zone was an arduous task.Especiallywhentheirmovements were restricted due to the difficulty of the terrain.

    Here, even a single misstep could lead to their death. Eitherby being poisoned or having their flesh and bones corroded by falling into the poison swamp. No matter the chances of obtaining the golden te, they didn''t feel the need to take such a risk.

    So, instead of mindlessly searching for the te, which was hidden, who knows where? Their goal in this 2-hour expedition for this zone was to hunt for monsters that live in swarms. Suchas the Poison Moths, Sting Bees, and Veno bats.

    Although,hunting a swarm is a more efficient method for collecting points. The high-risk factor is also present.

    Once swarmed by monsters, there''s almost no chance of escaping. Unless you have the strength to survive against hundreds of poisonous monsters.

    After poisoning, the monsters will keep attacking without letting any chance to take an antidoteand willevenmit suicide attacks until all their enemies are eliminated.

    For these reasons, attacking a swarm without enough strength is generally not advised. However, Luis and the others still nned to do so.

    It''s not that they were irrational, but they had taken this decision after careful consideration and made an attack n after thoroughly investigating the information they had collected.

    Of course, their actions represented a different meaning in the eyes of the rescue staff following their team. Shocked by their death-seeking behaviour. He urgently contacted the control room.

    ***

    Outside the Vernos Dungeon.

    Inside, the control room connected to the professors'' lounge.All the professors sat acrossfromeach otherwatchingthe students'' performance through the screen. While also discussing the promising teams in this exam.

    "Professor Hardy, your students are good!"

    "Haha! Just a bit! They still have a lot to learn, Professor Vindsmokwe." Professor Hardy saidmodestlywhile showing a hearty smile. However, the pride in his tone couldn''t be hidden.

    The other professors all showed a knowing smile and didn''t say anything. They were also looking forward to the performances of students from their respective sses.So,that they could show offter.

    Among the professors, only Darrin, Hena, and Olivia had different expressions.

    Professor Darrin maintained his ssic cold face, while Hena and Olivia had neutral expressionsobservingthe screen intently.

    ''Is Sera''s information true? Will there be another attack today?''

    Yesterday, Professor Darrin called for Olivia and Hena to discuss an important matter. The content of the meeting was that student Sera Dennis had received information that there might be an attack on students on exam day.

    Eventhoughthey had doubts because of theck of evidence.They didn''t dare neglect this matter, asthis concerned the safety of the students.

    Right when they were discussing the preemptivemeasures,in case of such attacks. They received the news of Bonnie''s kidnapping and then William''s ''death''.

    Like a p on their faces, Sera''s information was confirmed, anda student died right under their noses. Even if that dead student was a disgusting rapist, the kidnapping of Bonnie was a big humiliation for them, the S-Rank-Powerhouses, who guarantee the security of the Oracle Academy.

    Now thatthere was a possibility of another attacktoday, they decided to redeem themselves and capture the attackers.Otherwise, this matter would be a big shame for their entire lives.

    At this time, the control room received a message signal.

    *Beep!*

    [Team 3 is advancing towards the territory of Poison Moths! Within 5minutes,they will face a swarm of hundreds of Poison Moths! Whether to stop them or not? Instruction requested!]

    "So courageous?! They dare to face an entire swarm!"

    It should be known that in the previous sses, all the students have been repeatedly warned about several dangerous situations as well as some of the most life-threatening locations inside Vernos Dungeon. One of those situations is facing a swarm in the poisonous zone.

    Now, a team is taking such drastic action, going against their repeated warnings to challenge a swarm. How could the Professors not be shocked?

    "Team 3? It should be from the Leviathan ss!"

    "It seems so... Professor Olivia! Make a decision! Who are members of Team 3?"

    All the professors'' attention was now on Professor Olivia as they waited for her to speak. From some of their looks, they were obliviously waiting for her to call that team back and let them retire early.

    "Team 3? Is it Luis'' team?" Hena asked in doubt.

    "Yes," Olivia nodded, then thoughtfor a momentand responded. "Don''t stop them! Stay on standby! Wait until you find them in a life-threatening danger before you step up for the rescue!"

    Her response not only shocked the rescue staff but also some of the Professors who stared at her in disbelief.

    [... Y-yes.]

    Olivia heard the hesitation in his voice, so she continued. "I will send another staff to assist you."

    [Much obliged, Professor! I shall continue watching them!]

    *Beep!*

    "Professor Olivia, aren''t you too confident in them?"

    They all naturally heard Olivia''s response to Hena''s question and now understood who was behind this neurotic behaviour.

    Luis Suarez! The Rank-1 student of the first year! Got the hidden achievement in the entrance exam!

    "Even if there''s rank one student in the team. What about other members?"

    "Yes! In case of danger, Luis might be able to escape, but the other members of the team can''t be as strong as him, right?"

    "As amander, he disregarded the lives of his team members! He should be disqualified!"

    They all felt that, although Luis himself was strong. He was too ambitious and overconfident, as he was risking the lives of his team members because of his decision. So, they wanted Olivia to call them back and teach him a lesson.

 Chapter 230: Curiosity!

    "Whether they are capable or not, we will know that soon!"

    Olivia''s nonchnt response surprised the professors, and they all quieted down for a moment.

    Luis,as the top student, must have some brushes. So, it was understandable for them that Professor Olivia was confident in him.

    However, what about the rest of the team? This was not a solopetition! No matter how outstanding he is! The team''s performance must not becking, otherwise it would still be considered a failure!

    Just now, they had read the data of the other members of Team 3.Although their student rankings were not low in the entrance exam, their performance wasn''t particrly eye-catching.

    Hence, they couldn''t understand where Olivia''s confidence wasing from. At least they don''t dare to speak so arrogantly on behalf of their students yet.

    With obvious curiosity, they all nced at Olivia, having simr thoughts in their minds.''Is there something special about the other members of ''Team 3''?''

    Since arriving at the academy, Luis'' performance has always been crushing, which all the professors were well aware of. Now that it seems there are more outstanding students hidden in Leviathan ss. Many professors felt deep envy for her.

    Why don''t they have such talented students?!

    Professor Hardy noticed that the atmosphere inside the lounge had be a little strange, so he immediately smoothed things over.

    "Haha! That''s great! So many talented future pirs of Alnaurhave joined our Oracle Academy this year! We should all do our best to provide a suitable training environment for them to develop faster!"

    Professor Vindsmokwe also nodded his head in support and uttered with bright eyes.

    "This year, geniuses from all over the world are flooding over one after another! Is this the so-called ''Monster generation'' mentioned by the ''Headmaster''?!"

    Thinking of ''Headmaster'', Professor Vindsmokwe sighed and stopped speaking. Some of the other professors also sighed upon hearing his words and nodded in approval. Most of them agreed with his statement.

    However, a few had different views regarding this, but didn''t speak out. So as not to arouse others'' dissatisfaction.

    By now, the mood inside the lounge has eased up a bit and the professors, who were a little unhappy before, also calmed down. They were all now interested to see how ''Team 3'' would solve the disgusting swarm of poisonous monsters.

    Or whether Olivia would lose face? If so, the professors who envy her would gloat for sure!

    No matter the result!They were all looking forward to the uing battle! Even Professor Darrin''s stiff and indifferent face showed interest.

    ---

    [Olivia, are you sure about this?] Hena beside her asked, using her mind technique so that only Olivia could hear.

    "Just watch." With those words, Olivia used her mental strength to cut the mental link and stopped paying attention to her. Upon seeing this, Hena let out a helpless sigh.

    Olivia understood Hena''s concern, but there was no need for this. She was unaffected by the professors'' thoughts. She spoke what she believed in, so it didn''t matter if others disagreed with her.

    She also observed the screen. However, unlike others, her attention was not on Luis but on a figure holding twin daggers in his hands, acting the role of ''Striker'' on this team.

    An inconspicuous student in ss, whose only impression in her mind was that of an extremelyzy and unmotivated person. Sometimes, she even wondered how such a person would even pass the entrance exam for the prestigious Oracle Academy and enter an elite ss.

    However, just yesterday, she had her conception of him shattered. She discovered that this listless student of hers appeared to be deeply hidden. His strength was way more than he showed on the surface. This realization made her surprised and interested.

    ''Cobert Ruse, let me see how much you are hiding!''

    Olivia thought inwardly, with a sharp scrutinizing glint in her eyes.

    ***

    Inner area of the Poisonous Swamp Zone.

    Luis and the others were unaware that all the professors outside had their attention on them.

    Right now, they were slowly entering the territory of Poison Moths and were observing their surroundings on high alert.

    Suddenly! They all stopped.

    Thirty meters away from them, they found two Poison Moths sitting on a tree branch.

    Right then! Lily''s voice also sounded inside Luis'' mind.

    [Poison Moths (F and E-Rank)

    Size: 0.48 meters

    Description: They release poisonous powder, which paralyses their target''s nerves and also acts as a slow poison, which makes themsuffer excruciating pain until death.]

    Luis had already learned about these monsters in ss, but he didn''t stop Lily''s behaviour.

    One reason is that he might not always remember the detailed information about all the monsters he encounters.

    Another reason is by letting Lily analyse the monster''s strengths and weaknesses. She could better assist him in battle.

    In a way, this can be considered a good habit.

    Cobert nced at Luis, as if asking whether to take action. Luis shook his head in denial and spoke in a low voice.

    "Before reaching the nned battle site, we will avoid all confrontations with the Poison Moths unless necessary."

    "But Luis, isn''t it better to reduce their numbers before attacking the swarm?" Bonnie expressed her suggestion.

    Sufi nodded. "I agree! Why do we have to avoid them? It''s just two insects! I alone am enough to deal with them!"

    She was confident that her two shots of fireball would be enough to roast those two Poison Moths to death.

    Cobert didn''t say anything, he just yawned and nodded along with them. However, Luis also noticed that Cobert gave a sideway nce in a certain direction. Which made him sure that he had already found out, but was still pretending to be oblivious.

    Luis curled his lips and gave him a disdainful look, which Cobertpletely ignored.

    ''This bastard! Just wait and see how I make you work to death for me!''

    Holding back his annoyance, Luis pointed towards the tree at a further distance and spoke.

    "There are at least twenty more Poison Moths on that tree."

    Sufi and Bonnie''s eyes turned sharply as they looked at the tree Luis was pointing at in unison.

    Cobert imitated Bonnie''s surprised reaction and also stared at that ''tree'', which he had ''just'' found out, showing how ''surprised'' he was.

    Luis rolled his eyes, not bothering to disclose his poor acting, and continued speaking.

    "The soil here is damp because of the poisonous liquid. So, if we start fighting now, the noise will attract more monsters and this terrain will restrict our movements, putting us in an unfavourable situation."

    "If we are swarmed in ce, even if we may not die. It would be a battle with our lives on the line. There''s no need to take such a risk. When we can perfectly avoid it, just by changing the location and have an easier way out to deal with them, right?"

    Upon hearing this, everyone nodded in understanding, and they continued moving towards the nned battle site without alerting the monsters on their way.

 Chapter 231: Sand Element!

    Northeast, in the territory of the Poison Moths, there is a deep canyon.

    Which, on the opposite side, connects to the periphery of Sting Bees'' territory. There''s also a poisonous river flowing in the middle of the canyon that connects to the various swamps of this zone.

    Luis and the others n to use this location as a battle site against the swarm of Poison Moths.

    By attracting the swarm to the canyon and taking advantage of the terrain, they can use gueri tactics to obtain maximum gains with minimal effort.

    However, this strategy also risks attracting Sting Bees'' Swarm and getting besieged from both sides. For this reason, they require enough preparation before the battle begins.

    ***

    "Three of us will set up the traps! One of us will guard against monsters!"

    Just as they arrived at the canyon, Luis started assigning tasks to everyone. Scanning his eyes on the three, he stopped at Sufi and spoke: "Sufi! Be on vigil! Shoot down all the monsters in sight!"

    "Leave it to me!" Sufi assured in a confident tone.

    Shooting monsters or something!? That''s her forte!

    Upon seeing her agreement, Luis nodded affirmatively, but still reminded seriously. "Try to be as conservative as possible. Don''t waste too much mana on them."

    "I know." Sufi nodded understandingly and left to find a better shooting location.

    Not only Sufi, but Cobert and Sufi also understood Luis'' concerns. This wouldn''t be their only battle. After this, there will be many more fights, maybe more difficult than the uing one.

    They may even encounter a hidden boss if they are ''lucky''. At that time, theck of mana would be detrimental to them.

    Yes, they have prepared mana potions, but saving more for theter battles is better. Especially when they can deal with this uing battle more efficiently.

    While looking at Cobert and Bonnie, Luis said, "As for the rest, it''s up to us to set up the traps."

    Then he took out the gadgets for the traps he had purchased from the exchange centre. Bonnie stepped forward without waiting for him to speak and picked up the ck cylindrical gadgets.

    "I''ll go set up the electrics." After saying that, she left to install them at the ces specified by Luis beforehand.

    As the daughter of one of the famous technicians of the Grandas Kingdom, she is very familiar with the instation process of these gadgets and doesn''t require Luis to assist.

    She only needs to know how and where Luis wants her to set them up. The rest, she can do it on her own.

    Because he knew this well, Luis was also assured of leaving it to her.

    He turned to Cobert and said while pointing towards the other side of the canyon.

    "Go set up these electromaic bombs there... You should have used them before, right?"

    Cobert stared at the miniature finger-sized bombs and asked, pretending to be confused.

    "Are these things used to deal with Sting Bees?"

    Luis just gave a faint smile and didn''t answer.

    Cobert rolled his eyes and muttered listlessly. "So troublesome..."

    He now understood Luis'' n well. His targets were both Poison Moths and Sting Bees at the same time.

    As for why he didn''t exin these things to Sufi and Bonnie, he could pretty much guess.

    It was most probably to make him work hard and deal with it.

    ''What a hassle...''

    Although he thought so, his movements were honest. He took a high leap and jumped towards the other side of the canyon.

    ''As expected of Twilight Owl, hended without making a sound.''

    Luis thought with amazement.

    ''However, did he forget that he was pretending to be weak?''

    He nced in the direction of Sufi, who was staring at Cobert in surprise.

    ''As expected, she noticed it too~''

    Luis let out a soft chuckle as he gave a short nce in the direction of rescue staff members.

    ''I wonder if the professors will notice him.''

    ''Oh brother, you truly are a poor actor.''

    Shaking his head in amusement, Luis started setting up the rest of the traps left in his hands.

    As for the professors finding out Cobert''s true strength. It was none of his business. Rather, he was even looking forward to it.

    ***

    Inside the professors'' lounge.

    Just as Luis suspected, there were indeed some professors who noticed these details. However, most of them didn''t take it too seriously.

    "Interesting... Was that a skill? Or some movement technique?" Professor Darrin mumbled.

    Not only him, but the rest of the professors also had simr guesses.

    Professor Olivia''s eyes glinted when she noticed Cobert''s movements.

    ''Hmm, as expected! I wasn''t mistaken at that time. Cobert does have strength beyond what he shows!''

    "The battle here will probably take some time to start. Let''s watch other students by then." One of the professors, who was bored watching them set up traps, suggested.

    The one who spoke just now was Traven Lyster. He is a beast man from the leopard branch, an A-Rank powerhouse��the master of physical arts.

    "Do you have someone specific you want to see, Professor Traven?" The staff member asked.

    "No one, just show me a battle full of vigour!"

    His words did not surprise the other professors. They all knew what kind of personality he was.

    "I see," the staff member nodded. A few secondster, the picture on the hologram screen changed, presenting an ongoing battle.

    "It''s the Raging Desert zone!"

    "Which team is it?"

    "That''s Team 67. They are students from ss (1-2)."

    After the staff member''s words fell, everyone''s attention turned towards the professor, who was the ss instructor of ss (1-2).

    "Professor Mori, is there anyone among them worthy of attention?" The professor sitting beside Professor Mori asked.

    Professor Mori rubbed his beard and showed a confident smirk. "Does a mutated element count?"

    "What?! A mutated element! Who is it?" The professor''s exmation made even the people who were not interested before, interested.

    Upon seeing everyone''s reaction, Professor Mori showed a proud expression and replied.

    "Her name is ''Sandra Grace''! The user of ''Sand'' Element!"

 Chapter 232: Desert Centipede!

    Raging Desert Zone!

    A team of five surrounded a Sand Hippo, unleashing attacks one after another. The most conspicuous among them was a brown-skinned girl who stood some distance from the other four without making a move. As if waiting for an opportunity.

    She had a distinctive ancient rune that ran across her face, from her left eye, over her nose and upper lip, and down to her neck, highlighting her striking features. The rune seems to glow faintly every time she maniptes the surrounding sand.

    Her body adorned with intricate tattoos that wind around her arms and torso added an exotic beauty to her already enigmatic appearance.

    Suddenly, her eyes lit up, and she shouted to her teammates while raising her left hand towards the Sand Hippo.

    "Move aside!"

    At her signal, her teammates, who were unleashing pincer attacks on the Sand Hippo and keeping it busy, took immediate action and made space for Sandra tounch her attack.

    *Growl*

    The Sand Hippo, covered in several wounds and bruises, growled at the annoying humans around him with bloodshot eyes full of hatred. Taking advantage of this time when these pesky humans weren''t interrupting his moves, he was ready tounch his attacks.

    However, the Sand Hippo soon noticed that the sand around him started swirling around him, but it wasn''t under his control. This discovery made him panic. Just when he was trying to regain control of the sand, he heard a human girl speak in an icy voice, full of murderous intent.

    "Sand Coffin!"

    A coffin made of sand appeared above Sand Hippo and mmed hard, crushing half of its body.

    *Roar*

    "Sandra! One more time!" Sandra''s teammate shouted while closely observing the Sand Hippo''s situation.

    "Sand Coffin!"

    *GARR!* (Painful growls)

    Sandra could see that the Sand Hippo was at its wits'' end. However, just in case so as not to make it struggle more and trouble them by erupting with greater power at itsst breath. She used another one of her attacks.

    *Sand Burst!*

    A ball of sand condensed near Sand Hippo''s stomach. His bestial instinct warned him of the extreme dangering from the sand ball. However, no matter how much he urged his body to move, his limbs were as if stuck in ce unable to move.

    He felt his death approaching. Not surprisingly, the next moment, the ball exploded.

    *Boom!*

    The grains of sand pierced through the Sand Hippo''s body, turning him into a g. He let out onest whimper and died of unwillingness.

    Sandra''s teammates were still on guard. Only after confirming that the Sand Hippo was really dead did they breathe a sigh of relief.

    "Whew�� Finally dead��"

    "That was exhausting. If not for Sandra, we would be eliminated by now." The vanguard said while rxing his tensed nerves.

    "That monster was D-Rank, right?"

    "Yeah." The supporter girl nodded, then said with an excited smile. "We gained 5 points, guys!"

    The muscr guy named Jhon, who had themander''s position in the team, said with a ttering smile. "It''s all thanks to Sandra''s strong attack power."

    Anyone who sees this look can tell at a nce that he has feelings for Sandra and is trying to pursue her.

    However, to Jhon''s disappointment, Sandra didn''t pay attention to him. Instead, her focus was towards the desert as a deep frown etched on her face.

    Soon, the rest of her teammates also noticed her abnormality. Before they could ask what was going on? Sandra''s pupils contracted and she shouted hastily.

    "Evacuate with me! Fast!"

    Although they were confused by Sandra''s words. Upon seeing her rush out with a solemn expression. They didn''t stop to question their doubts and followed.

    ��

    "What an amazing student!"

    The rescue staff member, who was observing them from a distance, couldn''t help but praise Sandra for her great sensing abilities and fast decision-making.

    "It seems I won''t have to take action yet."

    ��

    Only after making enough distance from their previous spot, when Sandra felt the location was safe enough, did she slow down.

    "Sandra, what''s going on?"

    John asked on behalf of everyone. No one understood why they escaped in such haste.

    Instead of answering their doubts, Sandra pointed her finger towards their previous location and uttered.

    "Just watch!"

    John wanted to continue speaking, but seeing that Sandra''s attention wasn''t on him. He quietly stood beside her and waited. He wanted to see what it was that made Sandra panic so much.

    Then silence ensued. Even a few secondster, there was no sight of anything unusual. Only the remains of Sand Hippo, soaking the sand around that area with blood.

    Just when her teammates started wondering if Sandra was imagining things, a sand vortex with a of diameter about 5 meters appeared around the Sand Hippo, swallowing his remains.

    "No way!" The striker eximed. Cold sweat broke down his forehead.

    "Do you know what it is?" John asked.

    The striker nodded dumbly and spoke. "Such a big sand vortex. It can only mean that thing ising��"

    "What thing?!" John questioned impatiently.

    Just when the striker was about to answer his question.

    *Boom*

    With a boom!

    A massive figure dozens of meters tall and four meters wide gushed out of the sand. Its body was encased in a dense, armor-like exoskeleton adorned with vibrant red scales exuding a terrifying pressure. Which made everyone''s legs go numb.

    Even though the distance between them was far enough, the intense pressure still made them breathless.

    "It''s a Desert Centipede!" Not waiting for the striker to speak. The others already knew the answer by now.

    John''s eyes were horrified, but he swallowed hard and tried to calm himself down.

    "I-I think the distance is still not enough. So, while we haven''t attracted its attention, let''s leave immediately."

    His suggestion received everyone''s heartfelt approval and, without wasting a second, they all left that ce without alerting the monster.

    ��

    Inside the lounge.

    Professor Mori shook his head with a wry smile.

    "Should I say they are lucky or unlucky to encounter a C-Rank monster this early?"

    His words caused an abruptughter in the lounge.

    "Don''t overthink, Professor Mori. Their performance was already excellent."

    "Yeah! Especially facing a C-Rank monster. Their decision to withdraw was a right choice."

    "Most students overestimate themselves and get blinded by points, getting eliminated in the end."

    They weren''t kidding him. That is what they indeed thought so. Only some professors paid attention to something different.

    Among them was Professor Darrin, who looked over at Professor Mori with interest.

    "That student named Sandra�� Did she just sense the Desert Centipede''s presence underground through elemental fluctuations?"

    ****

    Monster Information:

    Desert Centipede (C-Rank)

    Size: 14 m

    Description: Covered in red scales and aligned with the Earth element, its armor-like exoskeleton makes defense strong. Agile despite its size, it moves swiftly with numerous legs ending in sharp ws for burrowing orbat.

    ****

 Chapter 233: Facing The Swarm!

    "That student named Sandra�� Did she just sense the Desert Centipede''s presence underground through elemental fluctuations?"

    Professor Darrin''s statement caused the others to look over at Professor Mori in surprise, waiting for his answer.

    "As expected of your sharp eyes, Professor Darrin." Professor Mori''s praising words, which also meant an affirmation of his statement, caused everyone inside the lounge to get excited.

    "Is that really the case?! Amazing!"

    "I thought it was just a skill!"

    "She should have just entered E-rank and she can already sense elemental fluctuations. Which can normally be learned by B-rank and above."

    Professor Hardy uttered with bright eyes, then turned to look at Professor Mori andined.

    "You are being unfair to us, Professor Mori. How can you keep such a gem hidden from us?"

    Although his tone soundedining, anyone could see that he was truly happy and didn''t me him much.

    Professor Mori understood that. However, he still exined with an apologetic smile. "You misunderstood, Professor Hardy. I also found out about this recently."

    "Is that so? Then I can only reluctantly forgive you." Professor Hardy said with an amused smirk.

    "Hahaha~"

    Everyone burst out in jovialughter.

    Professor Mori was very satisfied with everyone''s reaction. After all, it was his own student that was being praised. How could he not be happy?

    In a corner, although Hina was smiling along with them. Her attention was more on the mark on Sandra''s face.

    ''Why does that tattoo look familiar? Where have I seen it?''

    This inexplicable familiarity concerned her. However, this wasn''t the time to investigate it. So, she could only push her thoughts forter.

    "It seems Team 3''s swarm raid is about to begin."

    This sentence attracted everyone''s attention, and they all turned to look at the screen. Where the picture has changed from the desert to a deep canyon.

    In the picture, Luis lets Bonnie create a small, fixed rocky tform at the centre of all traps. Then incensed an Aromansi Lotus Wood, that he had purchased from the exchange centre, and ced it on top of the rocky tform.

    "So, that''s what he ns to use as bait to attract the swarm." Professor Cyndy realized and nodded in affirmation of her own guess.

    "What''s that wood, Professor Cyndy?" Professor Traven asked.

    "That''s Aromansi Lotus Wood, it''s a special incense. After burning, it releases a unique aroma that is very attractive to insect-type monsters. It spreads in the air at an intense speed, covering a wide area that goes up to several kilometers even without the assistance of wind elemental spells."

    After Professor Cyndy''s exnation, some professors who didn''t know about it nodded in understanding.

    "What a clever trick��"

    Professor Darrin mumbled as the corner of his mouth raised a bit. He was looking forward to how many surprises Luis and his team will bring.

    "Look, the Poison Moths are approaching!"

    Because of this sudden exmation, everyone''s attention was once again back to the screen.

    ***

    At the canyon.

    Luis and the others also found the swarm of Poison Moths approaching their direction.

    "Everyone! At your position!"

    "Cobert! Hide the traps using mist!"

    "Yes! Captain!"

    The Poison Moths, tempted by the enchanting scent, became crazy and rushed in the direction of the origin of this amazing aroma.

    Because numerous Poison Moths werepeting to enter the canyon at the same time.

    The scene was in chaos.

    Which is exactly what Luis wanted!

    Just when the Poison Moths were a little away from the electrics, Luis sent a signal through the wireless earpiece.

    "Now! Cobert! Start entrapping the monsters!"

    "On it!"

    Cobert jumped between the cracks of the canyon and moved closer to the Poison Moths. Even with his B-Rank strength, the sight of hundreds of Poison Moths in front of him made him shudder.

    ''Sigh�� Fortunately, I am not fighting them upfront.''

    Not wasting any more time, Cobert used his mist to direct the movements of Poison Moths, blocking all their escapes.

    "Great Job! Cobert!"

    "It''s nothing. Start the next step. I won''t be able to keep them for long."

    "I know. Bonnie! Activate the electrics!"

    "It''s ready!"

    As soon as Bonnie''s voice sounded through themunicator. Many strong electric currents shed inside the canyon. The cover of mist couldn''t hide some of the golden shes.

    However, the Poison Moths, enchanted by the aroma, couldn''t care less about the likely threat hidden under the mist and rushed forward.

    *Sizzle! *

    Soon, they paid the price for their irrational behaviour.

    *Screech! *

    The terrifying electric current roasted the Poison Moths at the forefront as their charred bodies kept falling, one after another. Some fell into the poisonous river and the rest towards the ground.

    The Poison Moths following behind didn''t stop, even after witnessing such a sight. Aroused by the scent of aromansi lotus wood, they have long lost their minds.

    Many of them suffered the same fate as the previous ones and a few lucky ones who were protected by the bodies of other Poison Moths didn''t die on the spot, but got paralysed instead.

    "Bonnie, smash those who survived on the ground! Pay attention to the poison!"

    Luis issued the order when he found quite a few surviving Poison Moths, who were paralysed by the electrics.

    "Hahaha! Leave it to me! I''ll whack ''em all!"

    Bonnie''s excitedughter sounded through the earpiece, which made everyone''s brows twitch.

    Luis simply ignored her and continued.

    "Sufi, shoot the ones who escape from the mist!"

    "I know��"

    Sufi was quite silent. She had already taken a higher position to snipe the monsters. After receiving the signal, she started sniping at the monsters, one after another.

    "Fire Bullet!"

    A small cylindrical shaped fire ball, rotating in fast motion, formed at the tip of Sufi''s finger that the aiming at the Poison Moth. The next second, the fire bullet shot through the air at an intense speed.

    Simr to Luis'' ''Thunder Bullet'', Sufi''s ''Fire Bullet'' uses a simr principle, where she concentrates the fire energy at the tip of her finger and shoots while increasing the pressure to increase the speed of the ''Fire Bullet''.

    However, the ''Fire Bullet'' can''t achieve a simr prating effect to that of ''Thunder Bullet''. Rather, it explodes aftering in contact with the target, causing an extra burning effect.

    The same thing happened to the Poison Moth that was being targeted by Sufi. In the end, it got roasted to death.

    ...

    As Bonnie and Sufi started killing the monsters, the speed at which the number of points obtained also increased. The situation changed from a passive increase because of traps to an active increase.

    Cobert was constantly using mist to prevent the poison moths from escaping and pushing them towards the traps.

    Luis, on the other hand, took out his Magic Gun to shoot the monsters and worked as support. He assisted them whenever they needed rest or were required to take mana potions.

    It was mainly the case for Sufi and Bonnie, who needed his support. Cobert, on the contrary, was just pretending to be tired, so Luis ignored him.

    Of course, he still paid attention to Cobert''s condition. In case he gets surrounded. He didn''t want his future subordinate to die, even before his job appointment.

    Cobert was a little frustrated because Luis didn''t act together with him. Which made him a little resentful.

    ''Sigh, can''t you just amodate with my act? I''m trying to keep a low profile! Okay?!''

    No matter how dissatisfied Cobert was, he could only hide all his dissatisfaction deep inside his heart and keep fighting.

    If he gets really careless now, then he may have to pay the price with his life. That is something he doesn''t want to experience.

    Ordinary E or F-rank monsters aren''t a trouble to him, even if there are hundreds of them. He dares say he could still handle them alone. However, the case is different when those monsters canunch poison attacks.

    Even if he is somewhat resistant to poison because of his B-Rank physique. He is notpletely immune. If the poison is strong enough, he may still die.

    Because of these reasons, even if he hid his true strength, he was very cautious.

    Just like now!

    In a rage, some Poison Moths attacked Cobert with poisonous powder. However, he wasn''t worried about identally inhaling them.

    ''Without this suit and mask, I might have been in a very dangerous situation right now.''

    As he continued fighting, Cobert also became thoughtful.

    ''What if I encounter such poisonous monsters or enemies with a poison affinity in the future?''

    ''This time, we were prepared beforehand. But what about next time?''

    While thinking, Cobert''s attention was attracted by the surrounding mist.

    ''I wonder�� Is it possible��?''

    Just when his eyes brightened with a look of enlightenment, he sensed something approaching, and a frown appeared on his face.

    ''Sigh��Trouble.''

    He immediately used themunicator.

    "Luis, they are here!"

    "How many?"

    "Around fifty, if they join in the fray. Then we may be in big trouble."

    Luis was disying his unparalleled marksmanship, paused and nced towards the opposite side of the canyon.

    "They made us wait."

    Then a wide grin appeared on his face. He continued.

    "Let''s send them away with the gifts we''ve prepared!"

 Chapter 234: Wipe Out!

    The opposite side of the canyon that Luis was looking at is exactly where the territory of Sting Bees lies.

    Sure enough, within a few sounds, many green dots appeared in everyone''s sight,ing towards them while generating arge amount of buzzing sounds.

    ***

    Monster Information:

    [Sting Bees (E-Rank)

    Size: 0.32 meters

    Description: As their name suggests, their principal method of attack is by using poisonous stings on their body. Their flight speed can be as fast as 200 miles/hour, but their physique is very crispy. With the buzzing of their wings, they can unleash powerful sound waves that can cause severe damage to their enemies'' hearing sensory organs and brain nerves.]

    ***

    Sufi and Bonnie were busy killing Poison Moth, but their movements slowed down a little and they appeared visibly nervous at the news of Sting Bees'' arrival. After all, Sting Bees are quite differentpared to Poison Moths. Not only are they extremely fast, but their sound attacks are enough to damage their brains and make them mentally handicapped.

    Unlike them, Luis and Cobert didn''t have such concerns. With their strength of D and B-rank, respectively, the Sting Bees'' sound attacks at most would only irritate them. It''s not enough to cause them any serious damage.

    However, they still weren''t nning to waste too much time on them. After all, they have nned to go to other zones too.

    Luis stopped shooting the poison moths and put his gun down.

    "Cobert, cover me for a bit!"

    Cobert was having an ''intense battle'' with a dozen poison moths. After hearing Luis'' words, he stopped getting entangled with them and used mist as a cover to retreat.

    "Hurry! Then! The Sting Bees are almost here!"

    "Yeah, I can see."

    Luis responded calmly. Then jumped towards a better position, waiting to activate the electromaic bombs at the right time.

    *Buzz*

    *Buzz*

    ''There they are!''

    With his perception, he could see them even from so far, very clearly. The green dot-like figures at least two miles away wereing closer every passing second and within half a minute, they might arrive here.

    After witnessing the scene before him, Luis became somewhat nervous as well as excited. Now there were only two scenarios in front of him, either sess or failure.

    If he seeds, then it would be an easy battle where they would be able to gain the maximum number of points with the minimum effort.

    On the contrary, in case of failure, they might have to face thebined siege of both poison moths and sting bees. Which will be an arduous battle unless he and Cobert fight with their full strength, revealing most of their trump cards and secrets. That is very unlikely for them to do so for just an exam.

    So, in such a situation, they may either have to give up, end up being eliminated or run away, losing their face in front of the professors. He knew Cobert wouldn''t care about losing face, but he wasn''t sure about Sufi and Bonnie''s choice.

    All in all, Team 3''s result in this Dungeon Rush exam depends on the sess and failure of the traps set by them for the Sting Bees.

    At the same time when he observed the approaching Sting Bees, Luis was also amazed by their flying speed. Even though he had learned their information in ss, witnessing such a sight still left a deep impact on him.

    He sighed.

    ''What an amazing speed.''

    ''Although I can teleport, it can''t increase my agility and reaction speed. Compared to them, I amcking a lot.''

    This thought made Luis want to reach the C-rank even faster so that he could practice that lightning element movement spell written in the ancient magic book.

    Soon, Luis shook those unnecessary thoughts out of his mind and brought his attention back to the battle because the Sting Bees were already there.

    Luis used his telepathy tomunicate with Lily.

    {Lily, analyze their movements and speed! Match the timing with their potential escape routes and prepare the most suitable sequence order forunching the electromaic bombs!}

    {It''s done, Master! ording to my predictions, if the bombs are activated in the following sequence, we can eliminate at least 89% of them and cause severe injuries to the rest.

    No.3 in 10 seconds

    No.7 in 11.6 seconds

    �� }

    {Okay, stop! I''ll give you the ess! Kill them for me!}

    Luis knew his calction ability was far inferior to Lily''s. It''s better to let her do it to avoid mistakes.

    {Yes, Master!}

    Lily took immediate action because time was running out.

    Luis killed the Poison Moths close to him and was ready to watch the show.

    The professors sitting inside the lounge were also watching with anticipating gazes. They were all interested to see how many Sting Bees could Luis eliminate using those traps.

    After all, Sting Bees are very agile. To kill them using traps and bombs is a very difficult task. Now that Luis is trying to do so, his execution timing needs to be wless.

    Otherwise, only the first bomb may be able to kill some with surprise attacks. But the surviving Sting Bees will be cautious and escape immediately. By then, it will be even more difficult to kill them using those bombs.

    It didn''t take long. Within a few seconds, the first electromaic bomb was activated.

    Arge amount of maic energy exploded, sending waves of maic attacks that made a dozen of Sting Bees'' heads explode in a mush.

    (Note: The electromaic bombs here are different from the ones we have in our world. However, some simr bombs do exist, which are used to blockmunication devices and magi-tech products.)

    It only took less than half a second for the rest of the Sting Bees to react after the death of their kin. However, as if already predicting their actions. Right, 1.6 seconds after the first bomb, another bomb exploded, causing several more deaths of Sting Bees.

    Then, one after another, the electromaic bombs keep exploding. However, the strange thing was that the bombs exploded at the best possible time and ce every time. Whichpletely blocked the Sting Bees'' escape routes. Hence, achieving maximum efficiency in eliminating them.

    No matter which direction they tried to leave from, what awaited them was only death. By the time the explosions were over, only a few Sting Bees on the verge of death were left.

    Whether the professors inside the lounge, his team members or another team that was observing them from a distance. His magical operation stunned everyone.

    ...

    Inside the lounge. The professors were shocked and discussed with excited voices.

    "Great! wless execution!"

    "For real! I thought he might be able to eliminate around 20 or 30 sting bees with those bombs, but who knew it was a direct wipeout? Haha, I underestimated him!"

    "How many points did he gain from those Sting Bees?!" Professor Hardy asked.

    A staff member replied.

    "He eliminated 92 Sting Bees. So, Team 3 gained 184 points from them. Professor."

    "Is that so?" Professor Hardy nodded in response and mumbled. "After clearing the poison moth swarm, they should gain hundreds of points, right?"

    A bright look appeared on his middle-aged face. Then he turned to Olivia and praised her teasingly.

    "Your students are amazing, Professor Olivia! After clearing the swarm, Team 3 will be in a lead with a vast number of points."

    Olivia was obviously happy with Professor Hardy''s praise, but she still waved her hands modestly.

    "Professor Hardy is joking! There are many other powerful teams. Nothing is certain yet."

    "You don''t have to be so modest, Professor Olivia! Your students'' amazing performance is indeed worthy of praise! Even whilecking a member, they can achieve such amazing coordination! It is no minor achievement!"

    Professor Darrin, who was listening to their conversation, also nodded after hearing Professor Hardy''s words.

    Somewhat thoughtful, he also expressed the doubts in his mind and asked.

    "Professor Olivia, have the students of Team 3 known each other for a long time?"

    Olivia was a little surprised by Professor Darrin''s sudden question, but she still answered truthfully.

    "No, Professor Darrin. If I am not wrong, they should only know each other after the formation of teams."

    "Oh! Not even by the start of the semester?"

    Upon seeing her nod, Professor Darrin was surprised and became even more interested in Team 3. From his observation, he could see the members of Team 3 have a lot of trust in each other. Which is not something that can be formed by just the virtue of taking the initiative to do so.

    It requires going through life-and-death fighting experiences together or years ofpanionship. Sometimes even that may not be able to guarantee this kind of trust.

    Because they trusted in each other and theirmander, they all left their back to each other and agreed to face the swarm together. Even for Luis'' reckless n to fight the Poison Moths and Sting Bees together. They didn''t hesitate.

    Is this because they all believe in him?

    No, there''s another possibility when such a high level of trust can be formed between a team.

    It''s when they have enough confidence in each other''s strength.

    ''No matter the reason, I have the feeling that if they keep fighting side by side like this they can be a very powerful elite team in the future.''

 Chapter 235: Golden Slate!

    Luis was oblivious to the thoughts of Professor Darrin. After the explosions were over, he once again raised his Magic Gun and started shooting the few surviving Sting Bees, until they werepletely wiped out.

    "Guys, I''m done on this side."

    "Then, hurry here! Because of those explosions, the Poison Moths are flying amok. I can''t keep them here for long."

    Cobertined. Sufi and Bonnie were also a little tired because of constant mana consumption.

    Upon hearing Cobert''s words, Luis turned around and, sure enough, the Poison Moths wereing back to their senses and they were trying to run away.

    ''It seems the effect of aromansi lotus wood will end soon. We have to harvest as many points as possible before the wood is burned out.''

    Not wasting any time, after Luis joined them again. He startedunching attacks on Poison Moths without reserve. He wanted to kill as many as he could in the shortest time.

    "Thunder Bullet!"

    "Thunder Snake!"

    ��

    After a few minutes, the sound of constant bombardment finally stopped, and the canyon once again ensued in silence. The canyon, which was densely packed by Poison Moth swarm in the air, has now be empty. Only a disgusting bloody smell lingered in the air. As for the ground, it had be a vast expanse covered with monster corpses.

    Therge number of Poison Moth corpses in the poisonous river also attracted the nearby Toxigators. Some had already started feasting.

    When Luis and his team regrouped, Cobert pointed towards those Toxigators and asked.

    "Are we going to fight them, too?"

    Luis rolled his eyes and spoke.

    "If you want to, I won''t stop you. It''s just a few D-rank monsters."

    Sufi and Bonnie gave Luis a nk stare.

    What does he mean by just a few D-rank? The two of them don''t even know how many more months they would need to enter D-rank.

    Can you stop taking it as an understatement?

    Unaware of the girls'' innerints, Cobert and Luis continued their conversation.

    "Can''t you solve them with just a few Thunder Javelins?"

    "No mana."

    "��"

    Luis'' answer left Cobert speechless.

    ''At leaste up with a better lie. Do you think I didn''t see drinking those mana potions earlier?''

    Heined inwardly, but hisziness made him unwilling to continue. So, he didn''t bother.

    "Fine, let''s leave them alone, then."

    While talking, they have also moved farther from the canyon, where they can have some rest before continuing to move.

    "By the way, how many points have we harvested by now?"

    His question also attracted Sufi and Bonnie''s attention. They all turned to look at Luis in unison, waiting for his answer.

    Luis didn''t keep them in suspense and answered directly.

    "It''s 1019 points."

    "Hm, that''s more than I expected. After all, quite a few of them escaped." Sufi uttered, then she nced at Cobert, who was staring back at her with dead fish eyes. "I''m not ming you, so don''t stare at me like that."

    Bonnie also chipped in. "Yes, Cobert, don''t mind her. You did your best to keep them here. It''s already more than enough."

    *Snort*

    A soft snort sounded, followed by Luis'' sneer.

    "Did I say something wrong, Luis? Sufi?"

    "No, what you said was absolutely right, Bonnie. After all, this guy did his best."

    Bonnie nodded naively. She didn''t quite understand Luis'' sarcasm, but Sufi and Cobert obviously understood.

    "I promise you, Bonnie, I''ll work hard to be stronger so that there won''t be a next time."

    Cobert assured her in an emotional tone.

    "I believe you can do it."

    Bonnie gave him an encouraging smile.

    Cobert also smiled back, pretending to be thick-skinned and acting ignorant towards Luis and Sufi''s piercing gazes.

    ''Why didn''t I find out before? This guy is so shameless!''

    Sufi gave Bonnie a sympathetic look, seeing her being lied to by Cobert.

    Before, she had also noticed that Cobert was hiding his strength and pretending to be in the same rank as them. But she still didn''t speak about it or reveal anything. She knew everyone had their secrets, and it was not her turn to pry on them or expose them.

    Since Cobert wanted to hide his strength, then he must have his reasons. She won''t speak about something unnecessary and create trouble for him.

    ''But still, what is his actual strength? Is he stronger than Luis?''

    For some reason, this sudden mysterious side of Cobert attracted her a little. It''s just the dark circles under his eyes that made her stop those thoughts.

    ''Forget it. I''ll find out sooner orter.''

    Luis looked at the time and it was one hour and twenty minutes since the start of the test.

    ''A five-minute rest should be enough.'' He thought, then mumbled. "If there aren''t any surprises, we should be currently ranking first."

    They couldn''t see other teams'' points, so Luis was unsure about the ranking, but he didn''t believe anyone could have higher points than their team in such a short time.

    Unless the other teams also raided a swarm or were lucky enough to encounter special incidents.

    "Anyway, has everyone checked? Is the suit torn somewhere, or is anyone poisoned?"

    "No, we are fine."

    The three of them assured, but Luis still asked the girls to take an antidote just in case. As for Cobert, Luis knew he didn''t need his reminder. As an assassin, he has better awareness than him.

    ��

    A few minutester.

    "Okay, now that everyone has rested. Let''s get going."

    After Luis'' words, Sufi and Bonnie nodded and stood up from the rock.

    Cobert also stood up and patted his butt to clear the dust away. However, he sensed some people approaching and nced in their direction.

    ''They haven''t left? I thought they would leave after watching us for so long. What are they here for now?''

    Cobert wondered, but he just stood there in silence, without asking the doubts in his mind. He knew Luis should have also sensed them earlier, so let him find out their purpose. He was toozy to bother with them.

    Luis stared at the five peopleing towards them with an expressionless face. As Cobert expected, he had already sensed them before, but ignored them, thinking they would leave soon.

    However, to his surprise, they didn''t leave. Instead, approach them. Now, even he was a little curious about their purpose.

    "Hello, MR. Luis!"

    The beast-man boy from the husky branch leading their team greeted Luis first.

    "Hello!"

    Luis also responded with a smile, which he believed should be handsome, and said with squinting eyes.

    "If I am not wrong, you should be from Jormundgar ss. Kress Bucknum, right?"

    Kress was surprised by Luis'' words.

    "I didn''t expect Mr. Luis to know me. What an honour."

    Luis just smiled at him, nomittal. He wouldn''t admit he had just learned his information from Lily.

    "I have heard about you from a friend. Anyway, enough with the pleasantries. What are you here for? You have been observing us since the battle."

    Luis still kept the smile on his face, but his sharp gaze and the pressure made Kress somewhat nervous. He didn''t expect Luis to find out and confront them about this.

    Worried that Luis may misunderstand, Kress exined in haste.

    "Please don''t misunderstand. We were just waiting for you to finish the battle to discuss a deal with you."

    "Oh? interesting, what kind of deal?"

    Luis showed an intrigued look, waiting for his answer.

    "It''s the golden te."

    "Golden te?!"

    Kress'' words made Luis and the others surprised. They didn''t expect Kress and his team would be lucky enough to find the golden te this early on the test.

    "Do you want to exchange the golden te with us?" Luis asked somewhat eagerly.

    Kress scratched the back of his head in embarrassment and spoke.

    "I''ll tell you the location of the golden te in this zone. How about you help my team harvest some points in exchange?"

    After hearing that it wasn''t the golden te, just its location, Luis and his team calmed down instantly. They all understood since Kress wasing to them after finding the golden te, instead of taking it for himself. That means they won''t be able to get it so smoothly. Either the location is extremely difficult to approach or there''s danger.

    Cobert and the girls nced at each other. Then turned to Luis in unison. Whatever decision he makes, they were ready to ept it.

    Luis understood their thoughts. So, he looked at Kress and asked.

    "How many points do you want in exchange?"

    "50!" Kress answered without thinking.

    "You are just going to give us the information. Not the golden te. Besides, we can only gain 30 -points from the golden te at most. In no way, this deal is beneficial to us."

    Luis said, with an uninterested look.

    Kress and his team members looked at each other, thinking what Luis said made sense.

    Upon seeing them hesitate, Luis smiled inwardly and spoke.

    "How about this? Your team will take us to the Golden te''s location, and we will help you fight some monsters on the way."

 Chapter 236: Kress Conspiracy?!

    "Did they really find the golden te?" Professor Mori asked in surprise.

    "Yes, Professor! Kress and his team found the golden te but had to escape because of danger." The staff member in charge of monitoring replied affirmatively.

    "Is that Professor Darrin''s student? I didn''t expect someone to find the location of Golden te so early. But why didn''t he go find the other teams from his ss instead of making a deal with Luis?"

    Professor Mori expressed his iprehension about Kress'' choice. The other professors also nced toward Professor Darrin, waiting to hear what he had to say about this. They all felt Kress'' approach to Luis wasn''t as simple as it appears to be.

    Professor Darrin continued staring at the screen in silence and a momentter, he shook his head with a t expression.

    "I have told them before. Instead of ying tricks, they should focus on improving their strength. Even if they seed once, can they be sessful every time? There is bound to be a dead end."

    As he said that, the others could feel the disappointment in his tone. However, none of them were surprised. They have been professors for many years and have taught all kinds of students. Someone like Kress, they have seen a lot.

    People who only rely on deception without improving their strength don''t have a high upper limit. In the end, they could only be mediocre and regarded as clowns in front of the true powerhouses.

    "Luis agreed with their deal. Didn''t he see through Kress'' tricks?"

    "No, he probably knows. But Kress at least didn''t lie about the location of the golden te. Maybe Luis is confident because of his strength and isn''t worried about being conspired."

    "What a proud guy! However, he should learn to be cautious too. Most of the time, overconfidence is the reason behind one''s downfall."

    Olivia and Hina listened to the professors talking amongst themselves. Both of them couldn''t help twitching the corners of their mouths.

    Restrain himself? Try to be cautious?

    That guy is the most cautious person among all the people they have seen, okay?

    Olivia, whose majesty as a teacher was deeply insulted and lost the chance to have such talented disciples, has the most say about this. To this day, she is still regretting and trying to redeem herself.

    Hina and Olivia looked into each other eyes for a moment and nodded with a sigh. They both had simr thoughts in their minds.

    ''Calcte Luis? Someone is going to be miserable!''

    ***

    Back inside the dungeon.

    Luis'' team and Kress'' team finally came to an agreement. Kress'' team will lead them towards the golden te''s location and Luis''s team will help them harvest the points on the way.

    Soon, they all started walking in a direction led by Kress and his team.

    "So, now can you tell me where exactly is the Golden te?"

    Luis asked, still maintaining the warm and friendly smile on his face.

    Kress, who was happy that negotiating the deal with Luis was sessful, nodded and answered.

    "That''s what we promised! It''s in the territory of Veno Bats."

    Of course, the answer he gave was equivalent to no answer at all. Veno Bats'' territory is in the core area of the Poisonous Swamp Zone. It is also the densest and has a bigger area than thebined territory of Poison Moths and Sting Bees. Finding the golden te in such a sizeable area will take a lot of time.

    Besides, that area is also the most dangerous area in this zone,paratively.

    "Wow! So, you guys came back here from the core area? Amazing!"

    Luis first praised them, then sighed in admiration.

    His praise had a wonderful effect, even if Kress wasn''tpletely affected, but his team members became proud and their arrogance increased. Being praised by the currently ranked one student, their mentality became a little inted, and they showed off one by one.

    "It''s nothing. I even killed a few Veno Bats with just a flick of my sword."

    "Heh, if themander hadn''t stooped us. I would have shot down all the Veno Bats with my arrows."

    "You don''t know, I just sneezed and those Veno Bats were��"

    "SHUT UP!"

    Kress'' loud scolding interrupted their boastings. His face was red in shame and anger, some veins were bulging on his forehead and he cursed his pig teammates for countless times in his heart.

    "If you can only talk nonsense, then stop talking!"

    Kress'' teammates became embarrassed, but they still shut their mouths honestly. Although they were a little resentful because Kress'' made them embarrassed, but they also felt that they had talked too much. If their n fails because of them, there might be severe consequences once they are caught.

    After stopping them, Kress, who was sweating, turned to look at Luis a little nervously. Worried that his team members'' boasting may arouse suspicion.

    However, to his surprise, when he turned back, Luis was still looking at them warmly and said with a slight smile.

    "Your team members are interesting."

    "Haha, they are talking nonsense. We barely escaped from that ce. How could we be their match?"

    Kress scratched the back of his head andughed dryly. He didn''t know why Luis was fooled so easily. Fortunately, Luis didn''t doubt them and the n could still move forward smoothly.

    ''I just hope that adult didn''t lie to us. As long as I can seed, I can gain that amazing power.''

    When he thought of his previous encounter with that man, and the rewards promised to him. Kress couldn''t help fantasizing about his unlimited future.

    Cobert was staring at Kress with listless eyes, but underneath thatzy appearance, he was sneering.

    ''Who sent this idiot to us? Do they think me and Luis are blind?''

    On the surface, Cobert didn''t show any change. However, he was constantly sensing their surroundings and his body was always in a vignt state.

    ''I wonder�� are the people behind Kress, Luis'' enemies, or mine?''

    Curious, Cobert wanted to know what Luis was nning to do. So, he walked near Luis and yawned as a signal.

    *Yawn*

    Luis'' smile solidified and his brows twitched.

    "What''s wrong Mr. Luis?"

    "No, it''s nothing. You were talking about that different-coloured Toxigator you met."

    Finding nothing abnormal through Luis'' expression, Kress calmed down his nervous heart and continued speaking about his experience to gain Luis'' trust.

    After yawning, Cobert slowed down a little and kept his pace five steps behind Luis and Kress.

    He kept walking listlessly while waiting for something, and sure enough. Within a few seconds, he felt someone trying to invade his mind.

    ''I knew it! This guy must have a powerful mind technique! Yesterday, I wasn''t mistaken."

    He could feel that it wasn''t a forceful invasion, but the one that needed his permission. This made him much morefortable. Then, without much hesitation, he allowed Luis to enter his mind.

    {What''s up?}

    Cobert''s lips twitched when he heard Luis'' words. He instinctively knew that since a mental link was formed between them, there should be no problemmunicating with him through his mind.

    {Can I�� What kind of technique is this?}

    He wanted to ask whether he could learn this technique too, but changed his words in thest second. Because he felt it was inappropriate to make such a request, without thinking about anything suitable aspensation.

    While he was still thinking of what could be used as a price in exchange for this technique, Luis'' next words poured cold water into his thoughts.

    {Don''t think about it. It''s not a technique, just an S-Rank Skill called ''Telepathy''.}

    When Cobert was disappointed that he couldn''t learn it, Luis''tter words made him speechless.

    {What do you mean by ''just an S-Rank skill''? Do you think everyone can get it as easily as you? It must be nice to be rich, huh!}

    For Cobert''s envious words, Luis was nomittal and told the truth.

    {Not really, it was free.}

    {Free?!}

    Cobert eximed in disbelief.

    {Yeah��}

    After that, Luis told Cobert a little about the battle arena. The consecutive wins and the reward system.

    {Can I really get an S-Rank skill?!}

    Cobert asked again for confirmation.

    {Of course, both me and Alicia got one each.}

    {Damn, I must try itter!}

    Although, Cobert is usuallyzy and didn''t care about the battle arena before, but who doesn''t like a free S-Rank skill book?

    It''s something that doesn''t easilye by, even in the ck market! Okay? As for Oracle Academy''s treasury, having a few S-Rank skills doesn''t sound abnormal.

    {Anyway, did you just want to chat?}

    ****

    Monster Information:

    Veno Bats (E - C Rank)

    Size: 0.5 meters (E and D-Rank), 0.25 meters (C-Rank)

    Description: They shoot poisonous liquid from their mouth and they release poisonous mist by pping their wings. By using ultrasonic waves, they can affect the sound frequency, deafening their opponent and destroying the brain nerves.

    Appearance:

    1) The bodies of E-Rank Veno Bats are ckish-purple, and their wings are velvet-shaded.

    2) D-Rank Veno Bats look almost no different from E-Rank Veno Bats except for being pure ck.

    3) As for the C-Rank Veno Bats, they are grey in colour and have half the body size of a D-Rank Veno Bat.

 Chapter 237: Aggrieved!

    {No! I''m just curious. What do you n to do now? It''s obvious there''s something wrong with him.}

    Luis wasn''t surprised that Cobert would ask this question. On the surface, he continued chatting with Kress like a good old friend and answered Cobert via telepathy.

    {Well, let''s follow them for now. Everyone knows professors are monitoring us, but Kress is still up to something. This means he is not afraid of being caught. He alone shouldn''t have the courage to make trouble here. There must be someone behind him.}

    Cobert agreed with Luis'' guess. He had the same thought. Although he knew it was going to be troublesome. He didn''t want to keep an enemy close to them, hidden in the dark, which might bring unnecessary trouble in the future. So, it was better to bring them down as early as possible.

    {Do you know who it might be?}

    {No idea.} Luis shook his head in denial. {But, we should be able to get the answer pretty soon.}

    {Hmm, as long as I am not the target, everything''s fine... I don''t want my peaceful academic life to be ruined any further.} Cobert''s indirect words made Luis very dissatisfied.

    {Tsk, are you ming me now? It''s not like you were enjoying your so-called academic life any better.}

    {Before getting entangled with you, I was happy.}

    Luis didn''t care about Cobert''s rebuttal. Instead, he asked. {Why don''t you find a girlfriend?}

    This sudden change of topic caught Cobert off guard. {Why should I?}

    Luis started preaching like an experienced old sage. {An academic life without romance always feels iplete�� How about Sufi? She should be able to bear with your sloppiness.} As if pondering about the suggestion he gave, he continued. {''An Elf and a lousy assassin''. Hmm~ It sounds like an interesting matchup!}

    The nk expression on Cobert''s face turned dark for a moment. At this time, he really wished he could give Luis a knife stab. Unfortunately, no matter how ruthless or unafraid he was in the past, he didn''t dare provoke Luis'' background with his current meagre ability.

    Besides, he wasn''t sure if his attack would even be sessful. Who knows how many trump cards this guy Luis is hiding?

    For Cobert, the mystery surrounding Luis and theck of information made him unwilling to cause trouble.

    Because of such circumstances, a well-known assassin like him has to bear with these ridicules.

    ''Sigh, howe I have fallen so low?''

    As if afraid of getting further annoyed, Cobert steered the topic back on track.

    {Should I control them right after they show ws?}

    {Do as you please~} Luis shrugged.

    {Got it!}

    At Cobert''s words, Luis cut off the mind link.

    ��

    The Veno Bats territory or the central area of the Poisonous Swamp Zone has the most concentrated number of monsters. Thus, increasing the difficulty and danger level for the students entering this area. For these reasons, even the rescue staff following them had to call for support. Prepared to deal with any emergencies the students may encounter.

    It didn''t take long for their team to enter the territory of Veno Bats.

    Luis sensed the approaching Veno Bats with his ''Perception'' and warned everyone.

    "On guard! Five monsters at front! 60 meters!"

    Regardless of the reaction of Kress'' team, Luis and the others had already taken action.

    Cobert leapt forward, closing the distance with the Veno Bats and then controlled them with mist after they were within 40 meters'' range from them.

    "Sufi, quick!"

    Sufi gave him a thoughtful nce, but her actions didn''t slow down in the least bit. Aiming towards the monster, she shot a Fire Bullet rotating at high speed. The Fire Bullet flew past the first Veno Bat''s wings, puncturing a big hole, and prating the head of the second Veno Bat, which was at the back. Then the second shot and the next. In this way, she shot all five monsters to death.

    "Wow! Nice shots, Sufi~"

    The enthusiastic Bonnie praised her. Which made a soft smile appear on Sufi''s cold face as she responded indifferently.

    "It''s nothing. After fighting the swarm, my aim has improved a lot."

    "Even so, it was amazing."

    Kress and his team also agreed with Bonnie''s words in their heart. After all, just some time ago, they had seen her shoot hundreds of monsters in the canyon.

    To be honest, if it weren''t for the things prepared by ''that adult'', Kress wouldn''t have the confidence to go against them.

    ''I just hope everything works out well.''

    Just imagining that amazing ability shown by that adult and thinking that he might also have such power in the future, he couldn''t help but get excited.

    He became so lost in thought that he didn''t notice someone talking next to him.

    "��ess�� Kress!"

    Kress'' teammate yelled out loud next to his ear.

    "What?!"

    Kress snarled at his teammate, which made him tremble timidly. But he still spoke the words he wanted to say.

    "Mr. Luis was going to ask something."

    "Huh? Mr. Luis!" Kress realized his gaffe and immediately apologized. "Forgive me for being dazed. What were you going to ask?"

    Luis stared at Kress with a calm expression and asked with a smile.

    "How long before we get to the Golden te''s location? Mr. Kress?"

    "It''s not far, just a few hundred meters more."

    "Hmm, is that so?" Luis gave him a sideways nce and nodded in understanding.

    Sufi beside him frowned and confirmed the location with the map. Suppose they keep walking on this route. They will soon enter their of a high-ranking Veno Bat, which should most probably be a C-Rank monster. There might also be many D and E-Rank Veno Bats gathered there.

    Just when she wanted to remind Luis. She saw Cobert''s signal and instantly realized what was going on. Kress was leading them into a trap! Luis and Cobert are already aware and have ns regarding it!

    Thinking that she was kept in the dark, she pouted in grievance. However, looking at Bonnie, her heart soothed a little.

    With the support of Luis'' team. Kress and his team didn''t have to exert much effort on their way, as they easily bypassed many Veno Bats. Of course, Luis kept his word and helped Kress'' team acquire some points as agreed.

    Finally, when they entered their of C-Rank Veno Bat, Kress spoke.

    "We are here."

 Chapter 238: Common Sense!

    With his perception, Luis easily located all the monsters in the area. He also found a grey smaller-sized Veno Bat, which was probably the said C-Rank monster of this Zone. However, he could feel it. That monster''s strength was not enough to threaten him. He was certain that he and Cobert could deal with it just fine by revealing a little more strength than usual.

    Rather, he was much more interested in the trap prepared by Kress and the person behind him. Unfortunately, he couldn''t find anything out of the ordinary through his perception. So, he could only wait for the right time.

    By doing so, he was by no means being reckless. Instead, he had ample countermeasures to deal with most difficulties. If worsees to worst, he could just reveal his Space element and hide inside the Pocket Space.

    Of course, if possible, he preferred the easier method. That is to avoid the trouble. But his instinct was telling him that this so-called trouble might be of benefit to him.

    This is one of the reasons why he didn''t let Kress and his team get eliminated and yed along for a while.

    "We are here!"

    With Kress'' words, all the footsteps stopped and the members of Kress'' team crouched down.

    "Where is the Golden te, Mr. Kress?" Bonnie asked.

    "It''s inside that cave. On top of that nest." Kress solemnly pointed at the dark cave, whose entrance had purple twisted vines surrounding it, giving off an eerie feeling. The cave was full of purple haze, which seemed highly toxic. If not for the gas masks they were wearing. They might die before they could even approach the cave.

    Luis and Cobert had already confirmed that Kress hadn''t lied to them. There really was a Golden te ced on top of a huge nest along with a couple of purple eggs. However, the cave had hundreds of Veno Bats guarding it. The difficulty level for obtaining the Golden te was too high.

    ''Hmm, so they will sneak attack us after we enter that cave, right?''

    Cobert''s nk eyes passed over Kress and his team. Then fell on Luis. He noticed Luis had a thoughtful expression as stared at the nest with scrutiny.

    ''I wonder what he has in mind.''

    Contrary to Cobert''s imagination, Luis'' attention wasn''t on the golden te. Rather, he was speechless, looking at the Veno Bats'' eggs.

    {Lily! Aren''t Bats'' mammals? Why can theyy eggs?}

    {What are you talking about, Master? Veno Bats are monsters! Of course, they willy eggs! It''s basicmon sense.}

    {No, it''s not!}

    {Um, Master. Should I conduct a full-body scan for you? Maybe someone has cast a de-buff magic on you that decreases intelligence.} Lily suggested hesitatingly, her voice full of concern for him.

    The corner of Luis'' mouth twitched, and he sighed helplessly.

    {Forget it, I''m fine.}

    {You sure?} She asked again.

    {100%!!!)

    What else can he say? His previous world logic doesn''t work here. Even foxes cany eggs. Why not bats? Right? Finding a reason for himself, Luis gave up thinking.

    Cobert came close to him and asked in a low voice that only he could hear.

    "Connect the link."

    Luis gave a slight nod and used his skill.

    {Speak.}

    {Now what, Luis? Are we going to follow along? The golden te is right in our sight. There''s no need to keep ying this charade.}

    {Can you sense if there are any traps here?}

    {No, maybe they used something to hide the traps.}

    {A concealment array?}

    {Perhaps��}

    {Hmm, wait I''ll connect Sufi and Bonnie too�� Guys, can you hear me?}

    Sufi''s eyes widened for a moment, but her stiff face hid her surprise. She nced at Luis with inquiring eyes, only to see him nod. Which made her tense nerves rx.

    {Huh�� this is�� Luis'' Voice?!!!}

    Bonnie was shocked and almost shouted out loud subconsciously.

    "How- *Umph*"

    At the right time, Sufi covered her mouth with her hands and restrained her from speaking. Then, facing the doubtful eyes of Kress and his team. She spoke in a cold tone. "Girls'' talk. Got a problem?"

    Scared, they all shook their heads in denial.

    {Bonnie, don''t show it on your face. Try to talk inside your mind.}

    Upon seeing her nod in understanding, Sufi released her mouth and gave Luis an annoyed look. To which he reciprocated with an innocent shrug.

    {How can you talk inside my mind?!}

    {Skill. I''ll exin itter. For now, listen to what I have to say�� Cobert, use your Mist Phantom Skill to create a phantom clone to follow us, while you hide outside.}

    Cobert''s eyes contracted in shock. He never expected Luis to be familiar with his moves, even though he hadn''t shown it before him.

    ''How far has he investigated me?''

    This realisation made his back shiver, and he broke out in a cold sweat.

    {Can you?}

    Cobert came back to his senses and gave a stern nod.

    No matter what, since he is already working for Luis as a part-time mercenary. There''s no need to worry too much. At most, he would be exploited a little more.

    Luis wasn''t aware of Cobert''s restlessness. He exined his n and everyone''s roles. Then started acting.

    "Mr. Kress, will you and your team follow us inside?" He asked with a faint smile.

    "No, Mr. Luis. Our deal was just to bring you here. We don''t have the strength to follow you further," Kress said, trying his best to express his sincerity. Only he knew how tense he was inside. Worried if Luis would ask his team to follow them. If so, then their n might fail.

    However, nothing he was worried about happened. Luis agreed with his proposal without much hesitation.

    "Well, fair enough." Luis rubbed his chin in thought, then nodded. "Since that''s the case, we''ll go inside first. Let''s meet again if we have a chance."

    As he watched them leave, Kress was surprised, and a momentter, a mocking sneer appeared on his face.

    ''Ha! What an idiot! What top-ranking student? No matter how strong he is. Wasn''t he easily fooled by me, the great Kress?! Once they get inside, even if they don''t die. They are going to be crippled for life!''

    Kress took out a purple stone from his pocket and crushed it.

    "Let''s go, guys, our work here is done!"

 Chapter 239: Discussion In Lounge!

    Inside the lounge, when the Professors saw Kress take out the purple stone and crush it. All their expressions became solemn.

    "A signal stone�� It seems the one who tricked Kress has some big conspiracy behind all this," Professor Vindsmokwe expressed with a subtle look. Which made all the other professors thoughtful.

    "Professor Darrin, do you think��" Olivia turned to Professor Darrin and saw him nod in affirmation. "It seems she was right." When he said this, Olivia could feel the boiling anger behind his calm words.

    She sighed heavily and turned to her friend beside her.

    "Hena, please��"

    Hena knew the situation, so she nodded in understanding. Then said while standing up. "I''ll go capture them back first. If there are changes. Send me a message."

    "Sure."

    After seeing Olivia nod, she disappeared in a sh.

    Their interaction fell into the eyes of the professors. Which made them interested. Professor Mori was the first to raise his doubts on behalf of all the professors.

    "Professor Olivia, forgive me if I''m wrong. But I want to ask. Do you know something about this?"

    He wanted to ask Professor Darrin, but sensing his agitated mood, he looked at Olivia instead.

    "Well��" Olivia nced sideways at Professor Darrin. Then spoke out. "Yesterday, a student from Professor Darrin''s ss came to ask him for help. ording to her, a friend of hers was being targeted inside the academy and his life might be in danger. So, she wanted the academy to focus on protecting him."

    As soon as her words fell, the expressions of several professors changed.

    "Is this rted to the yesterday''s incident?" One of the professors asked.

    "Probably," Olivia answered, then continued speaking. "Since she didn''t have any evidence to support her im, Professor Darrin wasn''t sure if it was her misconception. However, out of caution, he called out, me, Professor Hena, and Professor Hardy for a meeting. To discuss what measures we should take. It was during that meeting when yesterday''s incident happened. Which was solved by my students."

    When she said thest sentence, a hint of pride crept into her tone. However, none of the Professors cared about this. After all, if it were them, they would show off even more.

    "Did you find out the identity of the culprits and their purpose?" Professor Vindsmokwe asked with a frown.

    "They are criminals from the Aiverson Empire. The inspection team missed out because they were wearing human masks." Olivia answered.

    "How could they be fooled by human masks? Are they not doing their job properly?" Professor Vindsmokwe uttered in displeasure.

    "That''s not the case, Professor Vindsmokwe," Professor Hardy exined in a grave tone. "They weren''t using the ordinary human mask. Rather, it was very high-tech stuff. Without a top-quality scanner or mastery in physiognomy. It''s almost impossible for the inspection team to see through their disguise with their strength."

    "How could ordinary criminals have such things?" Professor Mori became surprised.

    Professor Vindsmokwe looked at Professor Hardy and asked. "Are you saying they have some powerful organization as their backer?"

    "That''s our guess. We can''t be sure without a thorough investigation." Professor Hardy said in a helpless tone. "It just�� Can we do that?"

    Everyone understood what Professor Hardy implied with his words. If they wanted to further investigate, they would need to send a lot of manpower to the Aiverson Empire. However, the king may not agree with Oracle Academy conducting such arge-scale investigation within his empire.

    Professor Vindsmokwe also sighed after hearing this. "If it was any other kingdom, it shouldn''t be difficult to convince them. But the Aiverson Empire�� Forget it. With his temper, he will never agree. Unless we can offer him good enough conditions."

    The lounge fell into silence for a moment. Stay tuned to m v l e m p y r

    Professor Mori looked at Professor Olivia and asked. "Didn''t your students keep any criminal alive for interrogation?"

    Olivia spread her hands, expressing her helplessness about this matter. "By the time I got there. Only the charred corpses were left."

    "It''s okay, Professor Olivia." Professor Hardy firstforted Olivia. Then his calm eyes fell on all the professors, stopping at Professor Mori as he spoke. "There''s no need to me those children. After all, it was their friend who was in danger. It''s understandable that they couldn''t control their emotions andnded a heavy blow to their enemies."

    Professor Mori showed a speechless expression, then defended himself with a wry smile. "I''m not ming them, Professor Hardy. Given Luis'' usualposure, it''s difficult to believe he wouldn''t keep an enemy alive for interrogation."

    "Okay, let''s stop talking about this." Professor Vindsmokwe stopped them before this matter could escte. "It doesn''t matter if the enemy is alive or not. With little Hena''s ability, she should be able to extract the memories from their corpses. Right?"

    When he said this, everyone''s eyes fell on Olivia, who nodded in affirmation. "ording to Hena, there should be results within a few days. It''s just that their brains were a little damaged, so it''s taking a little more time."

    "So that''s it." Professor Mori nodded. "Now, we just have to wait for the results toe out."

    Upon hearing this, the other professors also nodded without much worry. Professor Mori noticed the tentative look on Olivia''s face, so he asked with doubt. "Do you have something else to say, Professor Olivia?"

    Olivia hesitated for a moment, then shook her head firmly. "It''s nothing."

    There was something she hid from the professors just now. After the investigation, the number of criminals that entered the academy city and the number of corpses didn''t match. In the warehouse, the traces left also showed that there were more criminals.

    Now, whether someone disposed of the missing bodies or took them alive. She was sure Luis was behind this. Don''t ask why, it''s her intuition. It''s just that she didn''t know how he did it in such a little time. So, after hesitating, she kept this matter to herself first and nned to ask him about itter.

    Since she doesn''t want to say it, Professor Mori didn''t probe further. Instead, he turned to Professor Hardy and asked with a serious expression.

    "Professor Hardy, what''s the name of the student who asked for aid and the one who needed protection?"

    Professor Hardy nced at Professor Darrin, then answered under all the professors'' curious eyes.

    "It''s Sera Dennis from Aiverson Empire and the one who needs our protection is called Alex Stain."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!