Chapter 800 - Scandal
Irina stared at the crimson screen in front of her, her fiery amber eyes narrowing as the glowing letters [Defeat] burned into her vision. She slumped back in her chair, the controller slipping slightly in her hands as her frustration simmered. Her jaw tightened, and a low growl escaped her lips.
"Four losses," she muttered under her breath, the words dripping with disbelief. "Four fucking losses in a row."
Her gaze darted to the game stats flashing on the screen, and her anger only deepened. Her own performance had been stellar—top-tier damage dealt, perfect rotations, precise plays—but it wasn't enough. It never was when her team refused to cooperate.
She yanked off her headset, her fiery hair spilling over her shoulders as she slammed the controller onto her desk. "What the hell!" she shouted, her voice echoing in the quiet room. "Just defend the base! Why are you face-checking without me?!"
She gestured wildly at the screen as if the offending players could somehow see her. "You're a carry! A carry! You don't go wandering into the enemy jungle alone at thirty minutes! That's basic gameplay!"
Her frustration reached a boiling point as she leaned forward, glaring at the scoreboard. Her team's carry had racked up five deaths in the last ten minutes, each one more reckless than the last. Meanwhile, Irina's stats glowed with perfection—a spotless KDA, clutch assists, and flawless map control.
"And I still lost," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. "Because of that idiot."
She groaned, burying her face in her hands as the defeat screen lingered mockingly on the display. For a moment, she considered logging off, calling it a night, and saving herself further frustration. But then she shook her head, her fiery hair bouncing as she straightened her posture.
"No," she said firmly, her amber eyes burning with renewed determination. "I'm not ending like this. One more game. Just one more."
Her fingers hovered over the controller as she queued up for another match. The familiar hum of the loading screen filled the room, and her heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and lingering frustration.
"This time," she muttered, gripping the controller tightly. "I'll carry them myself if I have to. No more depending on morons who can't even hold a lane."
Irina's focus remained fixed on the screen as the queue timer ticked down. She leaned forward, her controller gripped tightly in her hands, her frustration simmering but contained. Just as the game began searching for her next match, a notification popped up on the side of the screen.
[Firebrand] has entered the lobby.
Irina blinked, her fiery amber eyes narrowing slightly at the familiar name. Firebrand was the unmistakable nickname of Julia Middleton, and the appearance of her name was both surprising and oddly fitting for the chaotic evening Irina was having.
Before Irina could react, another notification appeared—a message from Firebrand.
[Firebrand]: You're on? Wanna play more?
Irina hesitated, her fingers hovering over the controller. She considered ignoring the message and diving straight into her queued match, but the idea of having a competent teammate—one she could actually rely on—was too tempting to pass up.
She quickly typed out a response.
[InfernoQueen]: You better not drag me down.
It only took seconds for Julia to reply, her trademark confidence bleeding through even the screen.
[Firebrand]: Pfft. As if. I'm the MVP every time. Let's queue.
Irina rolled her eyes, a faint smirk tugging at her lips despite herself. Julia's arrogance could be infuriating, but it was better than playing with randoms who didn't understand the basics. At least with Julia, there was a guarantee of synergy—or at least chaos with purpose.
She accepted Julia's party invite, and the two quickly formed a duo in the game lobby. Julia's character model popped up next to hers, the fiery-themed avatar matching her real-life personality perfectly.
[Firebrand]: Let's crush these noobs.
Irina's finger hovered over the Queue button, her focus razor-sharp as she prepared to launch into another match. But the button didn't respond. She frowned, pressing it again with more force. Nothing.
"Huh?" she muttered, her fiery amber eyes narrowing. A message popped up at the bottom of the screen in glaring red text.
[Queue Failed: Rank Difference Too High Between Party Members]
For a moment, her brain struggled to process what she was seeing. Then her gaze darted to the party details displayed on the screen. It didn't take long to spot the problem. Her eyes widened as the words jumped out at her.
[Firebrand: Platinum I]
Irina's jaw tightened as she slowly glanced at her own rank displayed just beneath her username:
[InfernoQueen: Silver III]
The realization hit her like a freight train.
"She's Platinum?" she whispered, her disbelief turning to horror.
Before she could react further, a message from Julia popped up on the screen.
[Firebrand]: OMG HAHAHAHA YOU'RE SILVER?!
Irina's fingers tightened on the controller as her cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and frustration. Julia's mocking laughter felt like it was echoing right in her room, amplified by the taunting message.
Another message appeared almost immediately:
[Firebrand]: I CAN'T BREATHE LOL! SILVER?! IRINA, WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING WITH YOUR LIFE?!
Irina growled under her breath, her pride taking a brutal hit. "Oh, shut up, Julia," she muttered, but she knew it wouldn't stop there.
Julia's voice crackled through the headset as she switched to voice chat. "Irina, babe, you mean to tell me you've been sitting here raging for hours, and you're Silver? Silver Three? I thought you were better than this!"
"Will you stop?" Irina shot back, her voice edged with irritation. "I don't play ranked as much, okay? I actually have a life outside of this game."
Julia cackled, completely ignoring her protest. "Oh, this is too good. You, with your fancy mechanics and 'perfect rotations,' stuck in Silver. Meanwhile, I'm up here in Platinum, carrying scrubs to victory."
Irina's pride flared hotter. "You don't even play half as seriously as I do! How are you Platinum?"
Julia's grin was audible through the mic. "Skill, my dear InfernoQueen. Raw, untamed skill."
"More like dumb luck," Irina shot back, though the edge in her voice betrayed her wounded pride.
Julia wasn't about to let it go. "Face it, Irina. I'm just built different. Maybe I should start giving you lessons. Want me to teach you how to lane properly? Or maybe how not to die like a bot?"
"I don't die like a bot!" Irina snapped.
"Sure, Silver," Julia teased, the nickname dripping with mockery.
Irina ground her teeth, her amber eyes narrowing as she stared at the screen. She wasn't about to let Julia have the last word.
Irina's hands gripped the controller so tightly her knuckles turned white. Julia's laughter echoed through the headset, each chuckle poking at her pride like a needle. Her fiery amber eyes narrowed as she glared at the screen, Julia's mocking nickname flashing in the chat:
[Firebrand]: Sure, Silver.
Her jaw tightened as the words fueled a burning need to prove herself. 'Challenge her,' a voice in her head whispered. 'Wipe that smug grin off her face.'
"Alright, Julia," Irina began, her voice laced with defiance. "How about—"
She froze mid-sentence, the words catching in her throat. A memory flashed through her mind, vivid and uninvited: the last time she had challenged Julia. The humiliation of a one-sided match. The sheer dominance Julia had displayed. Irina could still hear the mocking commentary, the relentless teasing that had lasted for weeks.
Her pride wrestled with her logic, but this time, logic won. She cleared her throat, her fiery hair swaying as she leaned back in her chair, forcing a calm expression.
"Actually, you know what?" she said, her tone suddenly breezy. "I think I've had enough games for tonight."
Julia paused, clearly caught off guard by the abrupt shift. "Wait, what? You're bailing already? I thought you were all fired up, InfernoQueen."
Irina forced a casual laugh, though the tightness in her chest betrayed her irritation. "Yeah, well, some of us have better things to do than babysit Platinum players who think they're gods."
"Aw, don't be like that," Julia teased, but her voice carried a hint of disappointment. "I was just starting to have fun!"
Irina didn't respond immediately, her fingers already hovering over the console's power button. She wasn't about to let Julia drag her into another round of taunting—or worse, another match where she'd risk adding to her losses.
"Goodnight, Julia," she said firmly, hitting the button before Julia could respond. The screen went dark, and the room fell into silence, save for the faint hum of her cooling console.
Irina stood from her chair, letting out a sharp exhale as she paced her room. Her fiery hair swayed with each step, but her mood was a storm of frustration and defiance. The teasing, the losses, the weight of the day—it was all piling up, and she needed to clear her head.
She flopped onto her bed with a dramatic sigh, her fiery amber eyes staring up at the ceiling as she reached for her smartwatch. The sleek device lit up at her touch, casting a faint glow across her face. Without much thought, she began scrolling, letting her mind wander as she browsed through news headlines, random posts, and the usual flood of digital noise.
But then, her thumb froze mid-swipe. A single post caught her attention, its bright thumbnail and bold caption standing out amidst the clutter.
Her pictures.
Her breath hitched as she stared at the screen, her eyes narrowing. The post wasn't just about her—it featured her and Astron together. Each image was familiar: the hug at the Spatial Gate station, her leaning into him at the Stellamare Museum, the two of them entering the high-class hotel.
The caption beneath the pictures was scandalous, dripping with innuendo.
"Heir to the Emberheart Legacy? Or Caught in a Forbidden Romance?"
"Heh…."
Chapter 801 - Scandal (2)
The library was quiet, the only sounds were the soft rustle of pages turning and the occasional tap of fingers on keyboards. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting golden streaks across the rows of bookshelves and study tables. Ethan adjusted the strap of his bag as he entered, scanning the room until his eyes landed on Jane.
She was sitting at a table near the back, her dark brown hair catching the sunlight as it cascaded over her shoulder. A neat stack of books surrounded her, and she was scribbling something in her notebook with practiced ease. Ethan couldn't help but smile at the sight—she looked so focused, so at ease in this environment.
'She seems different here,' he thought as he approached.
Jane looked up just as he reached the table, a small smile spreading across her lips. "Hey, Ethan."
"Hey," he replied, setting his bag down and taking a seat across from her. "Thanks for agreeing to meet me. I figured we could both use the library time."
Jane raised an eyebrow, her smile turning slightly playful. "You figured you could use the library time."
Ethan chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. "Guilty. I'm not exactly acing everything right now."
She tilted her head, studying him with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "I wouldn't have guessed that. You seem like the type who would get straight As without even trying."
"Not even close," Ethan admitted, shaking his head. "Between training, missions, and everything else, I'm barely keeping up. And honestly, I've never been great at subjects like history or advanced mana theory."
"Well," Jane said, tapping her pen thoughtfully against her notebook, "it's a good thing you've got me, then."
Ethan blinked, caught off guard. "Wait… are you saying you're going to help me?"
"Why not?" Jane said with a shrug, her green eyes sparkling with a mix of confidence and warmth. "Contrary to what you might think, I'm actually pretty good at this stuff."
Ethan tilted his head, skeptical. "I mean, you did say you struggled last year…"
Jane's expression softened, but she didn't lose her composure. "I struggled personally, not academically. My grades were fine—better than fine, actually. Top 50 in theory in my year."
That caught Ethan completely off guard. "Wait, what?"
Jane chuckled at his surprise, her cheeks tinged slightly pink. "Yeah. Surprised?"
"A little," Ethan admitted, leaning back in his chair. "I guess I just assumed…"
"Let me guess," Jane interrupted, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "You assumed that because I was… going through stuff, my grades suffered?"
"Well, yeah," Ethan said, rubbing the back of his neck. "I mean, most people would…"
"Most people aren't me," Jane replied her voice light but tinged with quiet determination. "Studying was one of the few things I could control back then. It kept me grounded."
Ethan nodded, suddenly feeling a newfound respect for her. "That's… impressive."
Jane's smile softened, and she gestured to the stack of books in front of her. "So, if you're serious about studying, I can help. Advanced mana theory, history, tactics—name it."
Ethan hesitated for a moment, then grinned. "All right, but don't be too hard on me. I've got a reputation to maintain."
"Don't worry," Jane said, opening one of the books and sliding it toward him. "I'll be nice. Mostly."
As the session went on, Ethan found himself genuinely enjoying the time spent with Jane. She was patient but firm, guiding him through concepts he'd struggled with for weeks. Her explanations were clear, her insights sharp, and she even managed to make dry topics like mana density theory seem interesting.
"See?" she said after walking him through a particularly tricky equation. "Not so bad once you break it down."
"Not bad at all," Ethan admitted, leaning back and stretching. "I can't believe you're this good at it. Why haven't you been tutoring me all along?"
Jane laughed softly, a sound that made the quiet library feel warmer. "Because you never asked. And because I didn't think you'd want my help."
"Well, I'm asking now," Ethan said, his tone light but sincere. "Thanks, Jane. Really."
Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she glanced away, pretending to jot something in her notebook. "You're welcome."
For a moment, neither of them spoke, the comfortable silence stretching between them. Ethan found his gaze drifting to Jane again, her focus now back on her notes. She looked peaceful here, surrounded by books and sunlight, her confidence shining through in a way he hadn't fully noticed before.
'She's incredible,' he thought, the realization settling quietly but firmly in his chest.
"Ethan?" Jane's voice broke through his thoughts, and he blinked, realizing he'd been staring.
"Yeah?" he asked, trying to sound casual.
"Focus," she said with a small smile, tapping the book in front of him. "We're not done yet."
Ethan chuckled, leaning forward again. "Yes, ma'am."
Ethan's smartwatch vibrated softly on the table, interrupting the peaceful rhythm of their study session. He glanced down at the notification. It was from Lilia.
"Did you see the news?"
Ethan frowned, his brows knitting together. "News? What's she talking about?"
Jane glanced up from her notebook, noticing his expression. "Everything okay?"
"Not sure," Ethan replied, his voice tinged with curiosity. He opened the message, but it offered no clarification. Instead, another notification popped up, this time more urgent.
"Check the school forums, quick."
Jane tilted her head, her green eyes narrowing slightly. "Lilia doesn't seem like the type to send random messages. What's going on?"
Ethan hesitated for a moment, then sighed. "You're right. Let's find out."
He showed Jane the messages, and she squinted at them, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Lilia wouldn't send that without a reason. Check it."
Pulling his tablet closer, Ethan navigated to the Academy's forums, a bustling hive of gossip, announcements, and the occasional debate. It didn't take long for them to find it. At the top of the trending posts was one with a bold, scandalous headline:
"Heir to the Emberheart Legacy? Or Caught in a Forbidden Romance?"
Ethan tapped on the post, his chest tightening with unease. As the page loaded, the thumbnail expanded into a collage of images that immediately grabbed their attention. His eyes widened a little as he took in the pictures, and Jane leaned closer, her face a mask of curiosity and growing concern.
The post was filled with photos of Irina—and someone else.
"What?"
And that someone else was not something he had expected.
"Really?"
Ethan stared at the screen, his brow furrowing deeper with every passing second. The boy in the pictures was unmistakable—Astron. His distinctive purple eyes, quiet demeanor, and the detached intensity he always carried were undeniable. If this had been a few months ago, most people wouldn't have recognized him, but Astron had changed recently. His battles, his enigmatic nature, and his unexpected strength had made him a name that people remembered.
Ethan's eyes moved from image to image. The first photo appeared to be taken in a bustling city center, a crowd milling about in the background. Astron was there, standing close to Irina, his expression calm but distant, as always.
The second image, however, caught Ethan's attention. It showed the two of them at what looked like a museum—sleek, modern architecture with a backdrop of glowing exhibits. It seemed familiar, and after a moment of wracking his brain, it clicked.
'The Stellamare Museum… Julia mentioned it when she went there.'
Ethan normally wouldn't have remembered something like that, but at the time, he'd thought the place was unique. Seeing it in the photo now only made him more certain.
"What?" Ethan muttered under his breath, his hazel eyes narrowing as he stared at the images. The more he looked, the more questions churned in his mind. Why were Astron and Irina together? And more importantly, who had taken these photos?
Beside him, Jane leaned closer, her green eyes narrowing as she studied the screen. "That junior? Astron, right?"
Ethan blinked, turning to her. "Hmm? You know him?"
"Yes…" Jane's voice trailed off, her tone thoughtful. "He's gotten a little famous recently. People have been talking about his matches and… well, his attitude."
Ethan nodded, his expression still clouded with confusion. "I see."
Jane straightened, her gaze flicking back to the screen. "But this? This doesn't make sense. Why would someone go to this much trouble to post pictures of them together? And with a headline like that?"
Ethan exhaled slowly, his eyes lingering on the frozen images of Astron and Irina. The captions were heavy with insinuation, but the truth behind them was shrouded in mystery. "Since she's an Emberheart," he murmured, "it makes sense she gets this kind of attention. The name alone draws the media, and even the common people can't help but watch."
Jane tilted her head slightly, her expression softening. "I see… You must have suffered from it as well."
Ethan blinked at her, surprised by the observation. Her gaze was steady, and for a moment, he felt exposed—like she'd seen through a layer of him he hadn't meant to reveal. A faint memory stirred, and he looked away, his voice quieter now. "When I was younger, yeah. The media had its eyes on me too."
Those times were not easy for him either.
Jane didn't press him, but her silence invited him to continue. Ethan leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair as the memory resurfaced. "It wasn't easy. Back then, everyone expected so much, and when I didn't measure up… they didn't hold back. A 'failure,' they called me. A disappointment to the Hartley name."
Jane's brows furrowed slightly, but she said nothing, letting him speak at his own pace.
"It's not something I like to think about," Ethan added, his tone firmer now. "Those times are behind me, and I've moved on. But seeing this…" He gestured to the tablet. "It reminds me of how brutal it can be. Irina's strong, but this kind of thing? It can get to anyone."
Jane nodded, her voice quiet. "And Astron?"
Ethan hesitated, his gaze returning to the screen. "I didn't know they were like this."
Chapter 802 - Scandal (3)
Ethan stared at the screen, the images of Astron and Irina still there, frozen as if mocking his attempts to make sense of them. The more he thought about it, the more surreal it felt.
"Astron…" he muttered, shaking his head. "He's always been a mystery. Closed off. He doesn't let people in easily. I've tried more times than I can count, and even now, I feel like I'm only scratching the surface."
Jane nodded, her expression thoughtful. "He doesn't seem like the kind of person who opens up. I've seen him around, and… well, he's not exactly approachable."
Ethan chuckled softly, though there was no humor in it. "That's putting it lightly. He's like a fortress. It took a lot of effort just to get him to acknowledge me as more than a passing acquaintance. And Irina?" He leaned back, rubbing his temples. "Getting close to him with her fiery personality? That would be almost impossible."
Jane tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "You know Irina better than I do. She seems strong, determined. But… bickering with someone like Astron?"
"They've done it a lot," Ethan said with a sigh. "Irina's mentioned him before. Back then, her impression of him wasn't exactly glowing. She called him cold, frustrating, and…" He paused, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I think she once called him a 'stone-faced jerk.'"
Jane blinked, then laughed softly. "That… sounds about right."
Ethan nodded, though his expression remained conflicted. "That's why this doesn't add up. Astron's not the type to seek someone out, and Irina? She's not the type to tolerate someone like him for long. Their personalities are like fire and ice."
"And yet…" Jane gestured toward the screen, her voice trailing off.
"And yet," Ethan echoed, staring at the pictures again. The scenes captured in the images—Astron and Irina together, their postures far from hostile—felt entirely out of character. He could hardly imagine Astron willingly spending time with someone else, let alone the Emberheart heiress. And Irina? She'd always seemed too focused, too sharp, to entertain whatever this was supposed to be.
"This whole thing feels surreal," Ethan said finally, his voice quiet. "I can't picture them like this. Not after everything I've seen."
Jane leaned forward, her green eyes narrowing. "Same here. I don't know Irina personally, but that junior… Astron. He doesn't seem like the type for… this."
Ethan leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table as he stared at the screen, his thoughts a swirl of contradictions. "But at the same time," he said slowly, "Irina isn't the type to spend her time with someone she doesn't like. She's too… deliberate for that. And Astron? He wouldn't willingly stay in someone's presence unless he wanted to. If such people even exist for him."
Jane nodded, her brows furrowing as she considered his words. "Exactly. Neither of them strikes me as the kind to fake anything. So, if these photos are real—and they look real—it's hard to deny that there's… something there."
Ethan exhaled, the weight of the realization settling over him. "Who would've thought?" he murmured, almost to himself.
Jane tilted her head, studying him. "Does it bother you?" she asked cautiously.
Ethan blinked, surprised by the question. He leaned back, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "No. Honestly… I think it's kind of nice."
"Nice?" Jane echoed, her tone skeptical but curious.
Ethan nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at the images again. "Yeah. It's not something I ever would have expected, but… knowing them, it makes sense in a strange way. They're both guarded, both carrying so much on their shoulders. If anyone could understand Astron's silence or Irina's fire, it might be each other."
Jane was silent for a moment, then smiled faintly. "That's… a surprisingly optimistic way to look at it."
Ethan chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. "What can I say? I like seeing people find a connection, even if it's unexpected. They might bicker, but maybe that's their way of… well, getting closer."
Jane leaned back, her arms crossing as she regarded him with a mix of amusement and admiration. "You're not what I expected, you know that?"
"How so?" Ethan asked, tilting his head.
Jane shrugged, her green eyes sparkling. "Most people would be stuck on the scandal or the drama of it all. But you're here rooting for them, even when it doesn't entirely make sense."
Ethan's smile grew. "Guess I like the idea of Astron not being alone for once. And Irina? She deserves someone who gets her, even if it's someone as unlikely as him."
"I see….."
*******
Sylvie leaned back in her chair, her damp hair falling in loose waves over her shoulders as she scrolled through her notes. The faint hum of her desk lamp filled the quiet room, and for a moment, she felt a sense of calm settle over her. The evening had been a whirlwind of emotions, and she welcomed the peace that came with solitude.
Just as she picked up her pen to jot down a few thoughts, her phone buzzed on the desk. She glanced at the screen, her brow furrowing slightly as Jasmine's name popped up with a message notification.
Jasmine: "You need to see this. Check the forums. Now."
Sylvie hesitated, her heart skipping a beat at the urgency in the text. Jasmine rarely sent messages like this, and when she did, it usually meant something big—or at least something dramatic. Setting her pen aside, Sylvie reached for her phone and opened the message. Her fingers moved swiftly as she navigated to the school forums, her curiosity tinged with unease.
The top post immediately caught her eye, the bold headline practically leaping off the screen:
"Irina Emberheart and Astron: Just Teammates or Something More?"
Sylvie's stomach dropped. Her thumb hovered over the post for a moment before she clicked on it, the page loading slowly as her mind raced with possibilities. When the images finally appeared, her breath hitched.
The first photo showed Astron and Irina in what looked like a crowded city square. They weren't touching, but they stood close enough that their postures seemed… comfortable. Familiar.
The second photo was even worse. It was at the Stellamare Museum, the sleek backdrop unmistakable. Irina's fiery hair seemed to glow in the artificial light as she stood beside Astron, her expression calm but undeniably focused on him. He, in turn, looked completely unbothered, his usual composed demeanor unchanged.
Sylvie stared at the pictures, her mind a whirlwind of emotions she couldn't quite name. The captions beneath each image only added fuel to the fire, their insinuations impossible to ignore.
"Unlikely pair? Or a budding connection?"
"Is the Emberheart heiress finally showing her softer side?"
"Astron: The enigmatic boy who caught her attention."
Sylvie's grip on her phone tightened, her chest twisting with a pang of something sharp and unpleasant. She tried to steady her breathing, but the more she looked at the images, the harder it became to ignore the storm building inside her.
Why does this bother me so much? she thought, her heart pounding. They're just pictures. Just… rumors. They don't mean anything.
But deep down, she wasn't sure if she believed that. Irina's emotions had been clear enough when she'd approached her earlier—blazing pride, trust, happiness. And now, seeing these images, Sylvie couldn't help but connect the dots in a way that made her chest ache.
Her phone buzzed again, snapping her out of her thoughts.
Jasmine: "Wild, right? Didn't know they were so close. What do you think?"
Sylvie hesitated, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. She didn't know how to respond—didn't know what she thought. Her mind was a mess of conflicting feelings, her [Authority] only amplifying the emotions she didn't want to confront.
Finally, she typed back, her message short and vague.
Sylvie: "It's unexpected."
She set her phone down and leaned back in her chair, her gaze drifting to the ceiling. The calm she'd felt earlier was long gone, replaced by a restless energy that refused to settle.
Unexpected. That was one way to put it. But as Sylvie sat there, her thoughts circling endlessly, she couldn't ignore the one question that lingered in the back of her mind.
Would I ever be in a picture like that with him?
*******
Maya sat in her room, her mind still heavy from the events of the day. The weight of her confrontation with Irina lingered, a dull ache in her chest that refused to fade. She leaned back in her chair, her eyes unfocused as she tried to steady herself.
Her phone buzzed on the desk, breaking the silence. Without thinking, she reached for it and glanced at the screen. The notification was from the academy's forum, a trending post catching her attention:
"Irina Emberheart and Astron: Just Teammates or Something More?"
Maya's heart skipped a beat. Her thumb hovered over the notification, hesitation gripping her. A part of her didn't want to know, didn't want to see. But curiosity—no, something deeper—urged her forward. She tapped the notification, the page loading agonizingly slowly as her thoughts raced.
And then, the pictures appeared.
The first image was simple enough: Astron and Irina standing in a bustling city square. They weren't touching, but their proximity suggested a familiarity that made Maya's chest tighten. Her breath hitched as she scrolled to the second image.
It was worse.
Irina stood beside Astron, her fiery hair glowing under the sleek, artificial lights. Her expression was calm but unmistakably focused on him. And Astron… he looked as unbothered and composed as ever, his violet eyes betraying nothing.
The captions beneath the images made it worse:
"Unlikely pair? Or a budding connection?"
"Is the Emberheart heiress finally showing her softer side?"
"Astron: The enigmatic boy who caught her attention."
Maya's fingers tightened around her phone, her knuckles whitening as her chest burned with an emotion she refused to name. Her gaze lingered on the second image, Irina's calm, confident posture radiating a sense of ease beside Astron. The very sight of it gnawed at her, each second building a pressure in her chest that she couldn't ignore.
And then, as if on cue, the voice came again.
"See…" it hissed, curling through her thoughts like smoke. "That is why you're losing."
And Maya had accepted that….
Chapter 803 - Blown up
"See….That is why you're losing."
Maya flinched, her free hand clenching into a fist as the voice echoed louder, its malice cutting through her fragile composure.
"Look at her," it whispered, venom dripping from every word. "Standing there beside him as if she belongs. As if she has the right. And you? You're here. Watching. Seething. Weak."
"Stop," Maya muttered under her breath, her voice trembling. She tried to shut the voice out, but it pressed on, unrelenting.
"You had the chance to stand tall, to stake your claim. But you faltered. And now, look. She's there. And you're nothing but a bystander, watching as someone else takes what could've been yours."
Maya's hands trembled, her nails digging into her palm as she fought to suppress the surge of emotion welling up inside her. Her mind raced, the images on her phone blurring as the voice's words burrowed deeper.
"This is why you need me," it continued, its tone softening but losing none of its venom. "Without me, you'll always be like this. Weak. Watching. Waiting. Alone."
Maya closed her eyes, trying to drown out the voice, but its words resonated too deeply, pulling at the insecurities she had tried so hard to bury.
She exhaled shakily, forcing herself to focus. "You're wrong," she whispered, though her voice wavered. "I'm not weak. I don't need you to fight my battles."
The voice chuckled, a low, mocking sound that sent chills down her spine. "Oh, Maya. Sweet, naive Maya. You've already lost. You just don't want to admit it."
Maya's breath quickened, her heart pounding as she stared at the pictures again. The knot in her chest tightened further, and for a moment, she felt as though the walls of her room were closing in.
And yet, amidst the chaos, a single thought cut through the storm: "This isn't over."
Maya's fists unclenched slightly, the tension in her shoulders easing as she inhaled deeply. The voice might be loud now, but it didn't define her. She had faced it before, and she would face it again.
Her gaze hardened as she stared at the images once more, her mind steadier now. "This isn't over," she said aloud, her voice quiet but resolute.
The voice fell silent, but its presence lingered, watching, waiting.
For now, Maya focused on the task ahead. She wouldn't let this be her defeat. Not now. Not ever.
The voice chuckled, low and smooth, its tone curling through Maya's thoughts like a teasing smirk.
"So," it murmured, almost lazily. "You've finally decided to accept me. Took you long enough. But let's not forget…"
The playful edge in its voice sharpened suddenly, cutting through Maya's brief sense of clarity.
"I have my conditions."
Maya's breath hitched, the memory surfacing unbidden.
It was that time—the first time.
The crimson void. The suffocating weight. The piercing crimson eyes of her other self boring into her with an intensity that had felt overwhelming.
And those words.
"I want to be the one talking to him."
At the time, Maya had refused outright. She couldn't risk letting this wild, dangerous part of her psyche near Astron. The other self's unrelenting hunger, its chaotic nature—it had been too much.
Even now, as she recalled it, a chill ran down her spine.
The voice didn't wait for her response, its tone dipping into something almost amused. "You remember, don't you? When I told you what I wanted? I wasn't lying then, and I'm not lying now. If you want to keep fighting Irina—or anyone else—you need me. And if you don't want to lose, then next time…"
It paused, as if savoring the weight of the moment, then finished with deliberate precision.
"…let me have the time."
Maya's jaw clenched, her fingers curling into fists once more. "Let you?" she asked, her voice tight, her tone edged with disbelief.
"Yes," the voice replied smoothly, almost as if the request were simple. "Remember my condition? I want to be the one to speak to him. I want him to see me."
Maya shook her head, her breath quickening. "That's not happening. It's not an option."
The voice laughed again, softer this time but no less unnerving. "Still so stubborn, aren't you? You think I want to hurt him?"
"I know you're crazy enough to try," Maya snapped, her voice rising slightly.
"Crazy?" the voice echoed, mockingly. "Oh, Maya, I'm not crazy. I just feel what you refuse to acknowledge. That pull. That connection. And I feel it… stronger than you ever could."
Maya's breath caught, her heart pounding in her chest. The words struck a chord she didn't want to admit existed, and the voice took full advantage.
"Look at you," it continued, its tone softening into something almost coaxing. "Even now, you're hesitating. You're afraid—afraid that if you let me in, he'll see me. But isn't that the point? Don't you want him to see all of you? Or are you content to let him look right through you?"
"Enough," Maya said, her voice trembling but resolute. "I won't let you take over. Not now. Not ever."
The voice sighed dramatically, a sound of exaggerated disappointment. "Such a shame. You're still clinging to the idea that you can do this without me. But you'll see, Maya. You'll see soon enough."
Its presence began to recede, its final words lingering like a haunting whisper.
"You can fight me all you want. But eventually, you'll come to me. Because without me… you'll lose him."
The silence that followed was deafening, the weight of the voice's words settling heavily over Maya like a suffocating shroud. She sat there for a long moment, her hands trembling slightly, her thoughts a tangled mess of defiance and doubt.
"No," she whispered to herself, her voice quiet but firm. "I'll find another way. I don't need you to do this."
Her gaze flickered to the faint moonlight streaming through her window, a small but steady reminder of the light she clung to amidst the darkness.
But even as her resolve hardened, a part of her couldn't shake the voice's final words.
Would she, one day, be forced to face the truth of them?
********
The classroom buzzed with its usual energy as students filtered in, chatting about everything from the previous day's lessons to rumors circulating the academy. Ethan sat at his desk, his bag slung over the back of his chair as he scrolled through his tablet, trying to focus on the syllabus for the day.
The sound of familiar footsteps made him glance up, and he wasn't surprised to see Julia striding toward him, her energy as vibrant as ever. Behind her, Lilia followed with her usual measured pace, Lucas trailed with a casual air, and Carl brought up the rear, his steady presence grounding the group.
Julia plopped into the seat beside Ethan, dropping her bag on the desk with a loud thud. "Well, well, well," she said, leaning toward him with a mischievous grin. "Guess what kept me up until midnight?"
Ethan raised an eyebrow, already sensing trouble. "Grinding ranked?"
Julia's grin widened. "That too. But no, I'm talking about the pictures."
Ethan's stomach sank slightly, but he kept his face neutral. "The pictures?"
"You know…" Julia sing-songed, her voice carrying just enough to draw the attention of nearby students. "Those pictures. Our 'silver' fire queen and Mister Cold—a match made in icy flames."
Lilia raised an eyebrow as she took her seat, her red eyes gleaming with curiosity. "You mean Irina and Astron?" she asked, her tone calm but intrigued.
"Exactly!" Julia said, turning to face Lilia with mock excitement. "I mean, come on. Who would've thought? Irina Emberheart, queen of fire and fury, spending time with Astron Natusalune, the guy who could probably freeze time with a glance?"
Lucas snorted softly, leaning back in his chair. "I saw the pictures this morning. Pretty tame if you ask me. But people love to read into things."
"Oh, please," Julia said, waving him off. "Tame or not, the implications are what's juicy. They were at a museum together, Lucas. A museum. That screams scandal—or romance."
Carl sighed, crossing his arms as he leaned back in his chair. "Or, you know, they could've just been at the same place at the same time. Not everything is a conspiracy."
Julia ignored him, her grin sharpening as she leaned closer to Ethan. "And get this," she said in a stage whisper. "I think that's why he didn't choose me."
Ethan blinked, caught off guard. "What?"
"You heard me," Julia said, her tone dripping with mock tragedy. "I, Julia Middleton, was rejected by Mister Cold because his icy heart has already been thawed by a certain fiery someone."
Ethan rolled his eyes, though he couldn't hide the small smile tugging at his lips. "Or maybe he just didn't want to deal with your… energy."
Julia gasped, placing a hand over her heart in mock offense. "Ethan Hartley, how dare you. My energy is what makes me irresistible."
"Sure, if by irresistible you mean overwhelming," Lilia chimed in, her tone light but cutting.
Julia shot her a glare, though it was softened by her grin. "Don't you start, Thornheart. We all know you secretly thrive off my chaos."
Lilia smirked, leaning back in her chair. "It's entertaining. I'll give you that."
As the group bantered, Ethan's gaze drifted toward the door, half-expecting Irina or Astron to walk in at any moment. The images from the forum post were still fresh in his mind, and while he wasn't one to jump to conclusions, he couldn't deny the curiosity gnawing at him.
Julia, ever observant, caught his wandering gaze and leaned closer. "What's on your mind, Zeus? Thinking about the fire queen and her frosty companion?"
Ethan gave her a flat look. "Stop calling me that."
"Fine, fine," Julia said, waving her hand dismissively. "But seriously, don't tell me you're not curious. I mean, it's not every day you see someone like Irina willingly spend time with someone like Astron. Let alone in a place like Stellamare."
"I'm curious," Lilia admitted, her tone thoughtful. "But I agree with Carl—there's no point speculating without facts. Irina's smart. If she's spending time with Astron, there's probably a good reason."
"Or," Julia said, her grin returning, "she's fallen for his mysterious, brooding charm. You know, the whole 'silent protector with a tragic backstory' vibe."
Lucas rolled his eyes. "You're reading way too many novels again."
"Guilty," Julia said with a wink. "But hey, can you blame me? Reality's so much better with a little spice."
CREAK!
Just then the door opened…
And Irina entered.
Chapter 804 - Blown up (2)
The creak of the classroom door opening immediately drew the group's attention. Irina stepped in, her fiery yellow eyes scanning the room with her usual confidence, her fiery hair catching the light as she strode toward her seat. If she noticed the murmurs and stares, she gave no indication, her composed demeanor unwavering.
Julia, however, was already on her feet, her blue eyes gleaming with mischief. She practically pounced, closing the distance between them in a matter of seconds.
"Well, well, well," Julia said, her voice dripping with exaggerated drama. "If it isn't our silver fire queen. Tell me, Irina, how does it feel to be the academy's hottest topic?"
Irina arched an eyebrow, her gaze cool as she regarded Julia. "Good morning to you too, Julia."
"Oh, don't play coy," Julia teased, circling her like a predator sizing up its prey. "The pictures? The headlines? The mystery romance with Mister Cold? Care to explain?"
Irina calmly pulled out her chair and sat down, smoothing her uniform without sparing Julia another glance. "Explain what? That I went to a museum?"
Julia's grin widened as she leaned closer, her tone sing-song. "With Astron? The guy who barely speaks to anyone?"
Irina tilted her head slightly, her fiery eyes meeting Julia's mischievous gaze. "Yes. And?"
Julia blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Irina's unshaken composure. "And? That's it? You're just going to sit there all cool and confident while the entire academy speculates about you two?"
Irina smirked faintly, her voice calm and unwavering. "Why wouldn't I? Let them speculate. It's not my problem."
Julia let out a dramatic groan, throwing her hands up in mock frustration. "You're no fun! Where's the blushing, the stammering, the 'it's not what it looks like'?"
"I don't do that," Irina replied, her tone as sharp as her smirk.
Julia slumped into her chair, muttering, "Of course you don't."
The rest of the group, intrigued by the exchange, leaned in as the conversation shifted to more direct questions.
Lilia was the first to speak, her red eyes gleaming with curiosity. "At that time when you mentioned that you met Astron during the break… was that over something like this?"
"Yes," Irina replied simply, her confidence unshaken. "Why not?"
Lucas raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Why not? I mean… your mother…"
"She knows," Irina interrupted, her tone firm but calm.
Carl frowned, clearly surprised. "She knows?"
"Of course," Irina said, crossing her arms as her gaze swept over the group. "Do you think I'm that stupid? If I'm spending time with someone, I make sure there's nothing to hide."
Julia's jaw dropped, though the sparkle in her eyes showed her amusement. "Hold on, your mother knows? The Emberheart matriarch? And she's… okay with it?"
"Yes," Irina said matter-of-factly, leaning back in her chair. "She knows everything. I'm not about to do anything that would jeopardize my family or my reputation."
Ethan, who had been silent until now, finally spoke, his tone thoughtful. "So, this isn't just some casual thing, is it?"
Irina's smirk deepened, a flicker of amusement dancing in her fiery amber eyes. She leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms as she looked directly at Ethan. "What makes you think so?" she asked, her tone laced with a playful edge.
Ethan hesitated, caught slightly off guard by the question. He scratched the back of his neck, his hazel eyes flicking briefly to the others before returning to Irina. "...Well… it just doesn't look like something casual."
Irina tilted her head, clearly enjoying the attention. "Oh? And what exactly does it look like, Ethan?"
Before he could fumble for a response, Julia chimed in, her voice brimming with mischief. "See? See? Even Ethan thinks there's more to it! Irina, you're seriously holding out on us."
Irina raised a hand, silencing Julia with a sharp glance. "Don't get ahead of yourself, Julia."
But Julia wasn't one to be deterred. She leaned forward with a grin, her blue eyes sparkling with glee. "Come on, Irina. You're ranked third. You're practically a celebrity around here. Don't you think this kind of thing is, you know… beneath you?"
Irina's smirk faltered slightly, her fiery gaze narrowing at Julia. "And what exactly are you implying?"
Julia grinned wider, clearly delighted to have found a weak spot. "Oh, nothing. Just that someone in the top five might want to keep a spotless reputation. You know, avoid giving the gossipers fuel for the fire."
Irina's fingers drummed lightly against the desk, her composure steady but her expression sharpening. "Are you suggesting that spending time with Astron somehow tarnishes my reputation?"
"Well," Julia drawled, her grin practically splitting her face. "He's Mister Cold, after all. Not exactly the most… relatable guy. Makes you wonder why you'd bother."
Irina's eyes flashed, and for a brief moment, the air around her seemed to grow warmer. She straightened in her chair, her smirk returning but with an unmistakable edge. "Let me make one thing clear, Julia," she said, her voice calm but carrying a distinct undertone of fire. "I don't care what people think. I spend my time with whoever I choose, and no amount of teasing from you is going to change that."
The group exchanged glances, the tension palpable. Even Julia, ever the instigator, raised her hands in mock surrender, though her grin remained. "Alright, alright. Relax, Queen of Fire. I was just joking."
"Make better jokes," Irina replied coolly, though her smirk softened slightly as she leaned back again. "And next time, think twice before bringing rank into it."
Julia chuckled, shaking her head. "Man, you're fiery today. I guess it's true what they say—Astron really does bring out another side of you."
Irina didn't dignify the comment with a response, though the faintest hint of a blush crept into her cheeks. She masked it well, her confidence radiating as she redirected her attention to her tablet, signaling the end of the discussion.
But then the group's playful banter was interrupted when Lilia, seated closest to the back of the classroom, tilted her head slightly and nudged her chin toward the door. "Oh… he's here."
All eyes turned as Astron entered the classroom, his sharp purple eyes scanning the room with his usual calm, detached demeanor. His gait was measured, his posture straight, and while his expression betrayed no emotion, there was a distinct air about him—as if he were deep in thought. The low murmur of the classroom quieted slightly as he walked in, his presence commanding attention even without effort.
Astron's gaze swept over the rows of desks, eventually landing on Irina's group. For a brief moment, his eyes locked with theirs, unreadable but deliberate.
Julia, never one to let an opportunity slip by, shot up from her chair with a mischievous grin. "This is going to be good," she muttered under her breath, practically skipping over to intercept him.
She stepped directly into his path, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief as she tilted her head at him. "So that's why you didn't choose me, huh?" she asked, her voice loud enough to turn a few heads in the room. "To think Irina got to you before anyone else."
Astron paused, his gaze shifting to Julia with his trademark calm. His voice was dry, carrying no hint of the amusement Julia was clearly fishing for. "Good morning to you, as well."
Julia blinked, momentarily thrown off before her grin returned. "Ah, good morning, Mister Cold of the Lady of Fire."
Astron's expression didn't shift, but his silence spoke volumes. Without responding, he stepped around her and continued toward his desk, his movements unhurried but purposeful.
Julia, undeterred, quickly fell into step beside him. "What? No denial? No witty retort? Come on, Astron, you're killing me here."
Astron pulled out his chair and sat down, clearly unfazed by Julia's relentless energy. As he adjusted his tablet, he finally glanced at her, his tone as dry as ever. "Do you need something, Julia?"
Julia gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. "Need something? I'm just trying to have a friendly chat with my dear classmate who's suddenly the talk of the academy. Is that so wrong?"
Astron returned his focus to his tablet. "Yes."
Julia laughed, plopping herself into the seat beside him despite his clear disinterest. "You know, you and Irina are way too alike. You both think you can just brush off people like me. But news flash—I'm impossible to ignore."
Astron didn't respond, though the faintest flicker of something—amusement, perhaps—passed through his eyes before it disappeared.
At their original table, the group watched the scene unfold with varying degrees of amusement.
Ethan leaned back, shaking his head. "She's relentless."
Lilia smirked. "And he's unshakable. It's almost impressive."
Irina, her expression cool and composed, watched the exchange with faint curiosity. "She's wasting her energy."
Lucas chuckled softly. "Maybe, but it's entertaining."
Back at Astron's desk, Julia continued her playful barrage. "So, come on, Astron. Be honest. Did Irina bribe you to join her team? Or was it her charm that won you over?"
Astron
finally looked at her, his purple eyes steady but devoid of any warmth. "Neither."
Julia leaned in closer, undeterred. "Then what was it? Give me something, Mister Cold."
Astron sighed softly, adjusting the tablet on his desk as if she weren't even there. "If you're done, I'd like to prepare for class."
Julia pouted, dramatically flopping back in her seat. "Fine, fine. I'll leave you alone… for now."
Astron gave no acknowledgment, his attention already back on his tablet. Julia, though thwarted for the moment, still wore a triumphant grin as she returned to the group.
"Well," she said, dropping into her seat with a flourish, "he's as talkative as ever."
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly did you expect?"
Julia grinned. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe a confession? A secret love letter to Irina? Something juicy?"
Irina shot her a flat look. "Keep dreaming, Julia."
Chapter 805 - Sylvie is here too
The morning light poured into the classroom through the tall windows, casting golden streaks across the desks. The students of HA25 sat quietly, the usual hum of pre-class chatter replaced with a nervous energy. The atmosphere was expectant—Professor Kain's entrance always carried an air of gravitas, and today was no exception.
The door opened with a soft creak, and Professor Darius Kain strode into the room, his tall frame commanding immediate attention. His sharp gray eyes swept across the students as he reached the podium, his movements deliberate and confident. The sound of his boots against the polished floor echoed in the silence.
"Good morning," he began, his deep voice resonating through the room. He placed a sleek tablet on the podium, briefly glancing at it before addressing the class. "I trust you've all had a productive week and have finalized your team submissions."
The students exchanged glances, a ripple of curiosity and apprehension moving through them. Professor Kain's gaze flicked up, meeting their eyes with a slight smile—a rare but genuine expression of approval.
"I'm pleased to report," he continued, "that all team submissions have been reviewed and approved. It seems you've all been responsible enough to adhere to the academy's rules and avoid overlooking the ranking limits or team size requirements."
A faint murmur of relief spread through the room, though it was quickly silenced by Kain's steady presence.
"This is a promising start," he said, his tone firm but carrying a note of encouragement. "It shows that you're taking this course—and its importance—seriously. Keep it that way."
He picked up his tablet, tapping on it to bring up the roster on the classroom screen. The names of the approved teams flashed in neat columns, and the students leaned forward, their curiosity piqued as they scanned the list for familiar names and groupings.
"As you can see," Kain said, gesturing to the screen, "your teams are now officially established. From this point forward, you are accountable not just for yourselves, but for one another. Success or failure will be shared among your team."
He let the words hang in the air for a moment, his sharp gaze sweeping over the room.
"Now," he continued, his tone shifting slightly, "let me inform you about today's schedule. This afternoon, we will commence the first practical session for this course."
The room buzzed with murmurs again, excitement and nervousness bubbling up in equal measure.
Kain raised a hand, silencing the room with his commanding presence. "The session will begin promptly at 2:00 PM. You are to report to the Training Grounds no later than 1:45 PM. Being late will not be tolerated, and excuses will not be accepted."
His gray eyes narrowed slightly, his expression serious. "The practical session will test your ability to function as a team under controlled conditions. It is an introduction—nothing more—but I expect you to treat it with the seriousness it deserves."
Julia leaned over to Ethan, whispering, "Controlled conditions, huh? Wonder how controlled it'll really be."
Ethan smirked but kept his gaze forward, not wanting to draw Kain's attention.
Kain continued, his tone unwavering. "This session is designed to assess your initial teamwork capabilities and provide a baseline for improvement. Do not treat it as a competition. Your focus should be on collaboration, adaptability, and communication. Remember: the battlefield doesn't reward lone heroes—it rewards teams that work as one."
Professor Kain took a step back, his sharp gray eyes scanning the room to ensure his message had settled in. The murmurs of excitement and apprehension faded as the students straightened in their seats, the gravity of his words lingering in the air.
"Now that the administrative matters are out of the way," Kain said, his tone shifting to one of instruction, "let's begin today's lecture."
He tapped his tablet again, and the classroom screen came to life, displaying a detailed diagram of a simulated battlefield. The layout depicted a dense forest, a river cutting through the terrain, and scattered enemy positions marked in red.
"Today's focus," Kain began, gesturing to the screen, "is on field awareness and role optimization. These are the foundations of effective teamwork, and understanding them is critical to your success—both in this course and as hunters."
The diagram zoomed in on a specific section, highlighting a small team of figures in blue attempting to cross the river while under attack.
"Let's start with this scenario," Kain said, his voice steady but commanding. "A team is tasked with retrieving an artifact located across the river. The enemy is entrenched on the opposite bank, and the terrain is uneven, making direct confrontation risky. The team has four members: a Striker, a Defender, a Support, and a Tactician. What's the best approach?"
The students exchanged glances, a few of them already whispering ideas. Kain raised an eyebrow, signaling that he expected someone to answer aloud.
Julia raised her hand, her confident smirk in place. "The Striker should create a distraction, draw the enemies' attention away from the river, while the Tactician coordinates the movement of the Defender and Support to secure the crossing."
"Good," Kain said with a nod. "That's one approach. But what are the risks?"
Lilia leaned forward, her sharp green eyes focused. "If the Striker goes too far ahead or engages for too long, they risk being isolated and overwhelmed. The Defender would need to hold position effectively to prevent that."
"Correct," Kain said, his gaze shifting to the rest of the room. "Adaptability isn't just about having a plan—it's about anticipating the consequences of that plan and preparing contingencies. What happens if the enemy has reinforcements hidden in the forest?"
Ethan raised his hand, his voice calm but thoughtful. "The Tactician would need to account for that possibility before committing to the plan. If reinforcements appear, the team might have to regroup and adjust, prioritizing defense while reassessing the situation."
"Exactly. A rigid team is a dead team. Flexibility is your greatest asset, and it starts with understanding your roles and how they interact."
He tapped the screen, and the simulation played out, showing how different strategies unfolded. As the students watched, Kain highlighted both successes and failures, pausing to point out critical moments where decisions—good or bad—determined the outcome.
For the remainder of the lecture….things continued just like that.
******
As the class ended, the students began packing up their belongings, the tension from Professor Kain's commanding presence slowly dissipating. Julia leaned back in her chair with a long, exaggerated sigh, throwing her arms up in mock frustration.
"Ugh, these classes are going to kill me," she groaned, her blue eyes darting to Ethan. "Do you know how hard it is to sit still for that long and actually pay attention?"
Ethan raised an eyebrow, his hazel eyes calm as he replied, "You could try listening for once. You might actually learn something."
Julia shot him a mock glare, though the smirk on her face betrayed her amusement. "Oh, come on, Ethan. Even you have to admit Kain's lectures are like slow torture."
"They're fine," Ethan said simply, gathering his things with a measured efficiency. "You just don't like being told what to do."
Julia gasped, clutching her chest in mock offense. "Me? Not like being told what to do? How dare you suggest such a thing."
While their banter continued, Irina stood silently, smoothing her uniform as she pushed her chair back. Her fiery yellow eyes flicked toward Astron, who was still seated at his desk, calmly reviewing something on his tablet.
Her lips curved into a subtle smirk. Now that her photos with Astron were all over the academy's gossip channels, there was no point in hiding their association. If anything, she intended to lean into it. 'Let them talk,' she thought, her fiery hair swaying as she stepped away from her seat. 'If they're going to speculate, I might as well give them something to speculate about.'
She strode purposefully across the room, her movements deliberate but natural, drawing subtle glances from her classmates. The air seemed to shift as she approached Astron's desk, her confidence radiating with every step.
When she reached him, she placed a hand lightly on the edge of his desk, her amber eyes gleaming with amusement as she tilted her head slightly. "You ready to go?" she asked, her tone casual but carrying a distinct edge of ownership.
Astron glanced up, his sharp purple eyes meeting hers with his usual calm demeanor. "I wasn't aware we were leaving together," he said evenly, though there was a faint flicker of curiosity in his gaze.
Irina smirked, leaning in just slightly. "Well, now you are."
Their interaction didn't go unnoticed. Julia, who had been mid-complaint, suddenly stopped, her blue eyes widening as she nudged Ethan. "Oh, my gods," she whispered, her voice dripping with delight. "She's really doing it."
Ethan glanced over, his expression neutral but his curiosity piqued. "She's not even trying to hide it anymore."
Lucas, who had been quietly packing his things, glanced toward the scene and chuckled softly. "Irina doesn't do anything halfway. You know that."
Back at Astron's desk, Irina straightened, her smirk widening as she noticed the quiet murmurs around the room. She stepped back slightly, giving Astron enough space to stand. "Come on."
But then before she could leave, she had heard something.
"Wait."
It was the voice of someone whom she didn't expect.
"Shouldn't we talk about the practical session as a team?"
It was Sylvie.
Chapter 806 - Sylvie is here too (2)
Sylvie sat at her desk, her fingers loosely gripping her pen as she stared blankly at her notebook. The lively chatter around her faded into background noise, her attention riveted to the scene unfolding across the classroom. Her chest tightened as her gaze flicked between Irina and Astron, her mind replaying the events she'd just witnessed.
The pictures. The headlines. The way Irina seemed so composed, so confident when faced with the teasing from her classmates. Everything about her demeanor suggested one thing—something Sylvie wasn't ready to accept.
She really is… Sylvie's thoughts trailed off, the rest of the sentence too painful to finish. The words felt heavy, like they carried a truth she wasn't prepared to confront. Her grip on the pen tightened as her mind spiraled. She really is close to him.
The way Irina had handled Julia's relentless teasing with such ease, her confidence in admitting she had nothing to hide—it all pointed to a connection Sylvie couldn't deny. And Astron… His calm, steady demeanor never faltered, even in the face of Julia's probing. He never offered any denial, any clarification. He didn't need to. The silence spoke volumes.
Sylvie swallowed hard, her chest aching with a mixture of emotions she couldn't name. She wanted to look away, to focus on anything else, but her gaze kept drifting back to them. Why does this bother me so much? she wondered, but the answer was already there, simmering beneath the surface.
Jasmine's voice broke through her spiraling thoughts, soft but insistent. "Hey, Sylvie," she said, leaning closer. "You've been quiet. What's on your mind?"
Sylvie blinked, startled, and quickly shook her head. "Nothing," she murmured, her voice barely audible.
Jasmine frowned, her blue eyes narrowing slightly as she studied her friend. "Come on, Sylvie. I know you. You're thinking about it, aren't you? The pictures. All this Irina and Astron stuff."
Sylvie hesitated, her fingers curling tightly around her pen. "It's… not a big deal," she said, though her voice lacked conviction.
Jasmine sighed, leaning back slightly in her chair. "You don't have to lie, you know. I saw the pictures too. Everyone has. And yeah, it looks a certain way, but that doesn't mean it's the whole story."
Sylvie didn't respond, her thoughts too tangled to form coherent words. Jasmine's attempt at reassurance felt hollow, even if she meant well. The pictures, the way Irina acted, the way Astron didn't deny anything—it all felt too real, too impossible to dismiss.
Jasmine leaned closer again, her voice softer this time. "Sylvie, seriously. I don't think it's what you're imagining. Astron… He's not the type to get involved with people like that. You know that."
Sylvie nodded faintly, but her mind wasn't convinced. Then why does Irina act like this? Why does it feel like there's something there? The questions clawed at her, refusing to let go.
Jasmine hesitated before continuing. "Look, maybe they're just…. You know how it works—sometimes people work together for the sake of strategy. It doesn't mean there's anything more to it."
Sylvie forced a small smile, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Maybe," she said quietly, her tone lacking any real conviction.
Jasmine sighed, her expression softening. "Sylvie, you don't have to figure it all out right now. Just… don't let this get to you, okay? It might not be as bad as you think."
Sylvie nodded again, her grip loosening on the pen as she tried to focus on Jasmine's words. But no matter how much she tried, the storm of emotions inside her wouldn't settle. Her gaze flickered back to Astron, who sat calmly at his desk, his focus entirely on his tablet. He was the same as always—unshakable, unreadable.
And Irina… Irina's confidence, her composure, only made it harder to ignore the truth staring Sylvie in the face.
She really is…
Sylvie clenched her fists, the ache in her chest growing. It wasn't jealousy—at least, that's what she told herself. But whatever it was, it refused to let her rest.
Jasmine leaned closer, her tone shifting to something sharper, more resolute. "Sylvie, even if that is the case—so what?"
Sylvie blinked, her chest tightening at the bluntness of Jasmine's words. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Jasmine crossed her arms, her blue eyes narrowing with determination. "I mean, if you want something, go and take it. Why should you just sit here and concede? Why should you let someone else have it without even trying?"
Sylvie's breath caught, her thoughts spiraling as Jasmine's words sank in. "It's not that simple," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Why not?" Jasmine countered, her voice unwavering. "You're overthinking this, Sylvie. You're acting like you've already lost, but you haven't even tried. If you care about him—if you want to stand by his side—then do something about it."
Sylvie clenched her fists, her gaze dropping to her lap. "It's not just about me," she said, her voice trembling. "There's so much more to it. And what if… what if he doesn't feel the same way?"
Jasmine let out a sharp sigh, leaning back in her chair as she studied her friend. "Then at least you'll know," she said firmly. "But sitting here, torturing yourself over what might be—that's not helping anyone. Least of all you."
Sylvie's chest ached as her thoughts twisted and turned, Jasmine's words cutting through her like a blade. If you want something, go and take it. The idea felt impossible—reckless, even—but a small part of her couldn't ignore the truth in it.
Why am I so afraid? Why do I feel like I don't have the right to try?
Because deep down, the thought of rejection—the thought of losing even the small connection she had with Astron—was too painful to bear.
"I don't know if I can," Sylvie said finally, her voice quiet and strained. "What if… what if it's already too late?"
Jasmine frowned, her gaze softening slightly. "It's not too late unless you decide it is," she said gently. "Sylvie, you're stronger than this. I've seen it. And you know Astron—he's not someone who makes decisions lightly. If you want to be a part of his life, then fight for it. Don't just sit here and let it slip away."
Sylvie's heart pounded, her mind a whirlwind of doubt and resolve.
Fight for it.
******
Sylvie sat frozen in her seat as she watched Irina approach Astron, the composed confidence of her strides catching the attention of nearly everyone in the room. The fiery glow of Irina's aura pulsed faintly in Sylvie's awareness, her [Authority] picking up the swirling emotions beneath the surface.
To anyone else, Irina seemed completely unshaken—her head held high, her movements deliberate and sure. But to Sylvie, the truth was clear.
Irina's emotions were like a whirlwind.
Beneath the pride and self-assuredness, Sylvie could feel the faint flicker of something else. Nervousness. It was subtle, carefully hidden, but it was there—a trembling thread running through the vibrant colors of her emotions. Alongside it were shades of eagerness, the soft pink glow of affection, and a distinct note of determination.
Even if she's trying to act tough… Even Irina feels nervous, Sylvie thought, her chest tightening. That realization hit her harder than she expected, stirring something deep within her. Then it's okay for me to feel nervous too. Right?
But the thought brought no comfort. Her hands trembled slightly as she gripped the edge of her desk, her gaze flicking between Irina and Astron. It's not enough to just understand. I need to act.
Her breath quickened as she watched Irina lean toward Astron, her smirk faint but unmistakable. The murmurs in the classroom grew louder, Julia's delighted whispers cutting through the noise like knives. Sylvie clenched her fists, her heart pounding as a single, inescapable truth settled over her.
If I don't act now, I'll regret it forever.
Summoning every ounce of courage she could muster, Sylvie pushed her chair back and stood, the scrape of wood against the floor drawing a few curious glances. Her legs felt unsteady beneath her, but she steadied herself, forcing her voice to remain calm as she spoke.
"Wait," she said, her words cutting through the low hum of the room.
Irina turned, her fiery eyes narrowing slightly as she looked at Sylvie. The faintest flicker of surprise crossed her face, though she masked it quickly with her usual composure.
Sylvie met Irina's gaze, her heart racing as she forced herself to continue. "Shouldn't we talk about the practical session as a team?" she asked, her voice steady despite the storm raging inside her.
The room went quiet for a moment, the air thick with tension as all eyes turned to the two girls. Astron's sharp purple eyes shifted to Sylvie, his expression unreadable but focused.
Irina raised an eyebrow, her smirk returning as she crossed her arms. "The practical session?" she asked, her tone calm but carrying a faint edge of curiosity.
"Yes," Sylvie said firmly, her gaze unwavering. "We need to plan as a team. It's important to coordinate if we want to succeed."
For a moment, Irina said nothing, her fiery eyes studying Sylvie intently. The whirlwind of emotions beneath her composed exterior flickered in Sylvie's awareness—curiosity, a touch of amusement, and a faint but growing note of irritation.
Irina's fiery yellow eyes locked onto Sylvie's, her smirk deepening as she crossed her arms. "We can meet an hour before the practical session," she said, her tone casual but carrying an unmistakable edge. "That's more than enough time to plan."
Sylvie's heart raced, her chest tightening as the tension in the air grew heavier. But she refused to back down. Clenching her fists at her sides, she steadied her voice. "Why not earlier?" she countered, her tone firm. "If we meet sooner, we can make sure everything is aligned. We'd have more time to adjust if something doesn't work."
Irina raised an eyebrow, her smirk not faltering. "One hour is enough," she said again, her voice calm but unwavering. "We're all competent enough to handle this without wasting time on over-preparation."
Sylvie stepped forward slightly, her gaze unwavering. "What if it isn't?" she asked, her voice sharper now. "What if something unexpected happens and we don't have enough time to adapt? Shouldn't we make sure we're fully prepared?"
The room was deathly silent, the weight of their exchange drawing the attention of nearly every student. Irina's smirk faltered for a fraction of a second, a flicker of irritation crossing her face before she quickly masked it with her usual composure.
And then she turned her head to Astron.
"Then….What do you think?"
Chapter 807 - Sylvie is here too (3)
Irina's fiery eyes narrowed slightly, her annoyance bubbling beneath the surface as she studied Sylvie. It wasn't that she didn't like her; in fact, Sylvie was generally someone Irina found tolerable, even respectable. But this sudden assertiveness—this push to change the plan—was entirely out of character for her.
'This girl…' Irina thought, her jaw tightening as her irritation simmered. Sylvie rarely spoke up like this, much less in a way that challenged others so directly. And now, she was pushing back against Irina, something that sent a faint warning bell ringing in her mind.
It wasn't just annoying. It was suspicious.
'What's her angle? Why does she care so much about meeting earlier? She never does this kind of thing. Is she… one of those?'
Irina's smirk softened into something sharper, more calculating. There was a possibility here she couldn't ignore. But instead of pressing Sylvie further, she decided to pivot.
Her fiery gaze shifted to Astron, standing calmly beside her. His sharp purple eyes were as unreadable as ever, his posture steady and unbothered by the tension in the room.
"Well then," Irina said, her voice carrying an edge of exasperation. "What do you think?"
Astron's eyes moved to hers, calm and deliberate. "About what?" he asked evenly, his tone devoid of any urgency.
Irina raised an eyebrow, her annoyance flaring briefly. "About whether we should meet earlier or not."
Astron's gaze lingered on her for a moment, and Irina caught the faintest flicker of something in his eyes—amusement. His lips quirked slightly, as though he were holding back a smirk.
"Which type of answer do you want?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying a faint undertone of mischief. "The logical answer, or the answer you want to hear?"
Irina's jaw tightened, the corner of her mouth twitching involuntarily as she glared at him. She could see it now—the faint, barely-there glint of amusement in his sharp eyes. 'This bastard…'
Her fingers drummed lightly against her crossed arms as she steadied her voice. "Logical," she said firmly, her tone carrying a warning edge.
Astron tilted his head slightly, his sharp purple eyes steady as he spoke, his tone calm but deliberate. "Logically, it's better to meet earlier," he began, his voice cutting through the lingering tension in the room. "The team has been formed, yes, and we have a rough idea of everyone's roles. But that's not enough. We don't truly know each other—our strengths, our tendencies, how we approach challenges."
His gaze shifted slightly, encompassing both Irina and Sylvie. "For the sake of achieving a better grade, taking the time to align expectations and build some cohesion is important. It's not about over-preparing but ensuring we're not caught off guard when the session begins."
Irina's fiery eyes narrowed as her irritation flared. 'He's taking her side.' She crossed her arms, her fiery hair swaying slightly as she straightened her posture. "So, you're saying we should waste extra time on something we can handle in an hour?" she said sharply, her tone edged with defiance.
Astron's gaze returned to hers, calm but with a subtle undertone of warning that made her pause. "As a ranked-2 student of the academy," he said evenly, his words deliberate, "you should understand the importance of even a single grade."
Irina's breath hitched slightly, her fiery confidence flickering as his words struck a nerve. Her mind immediately flashed back to the first semester—one of the choices she'd made, the way she had underestimated certain tasks and certain someone, thinking her natural abilities would carry her through. And then the results had come in: Seraphina overtaking her to claim the second rank, pushing Irina to third.
Her mother's words echoed in her mind, sharp and unyielding. "Grades aren't just numbers, Irina. They're your reputation, your future. Everything you do reflects on this family."
Irina's fingers drummed against her crossed arms, her fiery gaze softening slightly as her thoughts raced. 'He's right,' she thought begrudgingly, the edge in her stance giving way to a quiet resolve. 'Sylvie's words make sense, and if this can help secure better results, then…'
She exhaled softly, her lips curling into a faint smirk, though the fire in her eyes had tempered. "Fine," she said, her tone calm but laced with reluctant agreement. "We'll meet earlier."
Sylvie blinked, clearly surprised by Irina's sudden shift in tone. "Really?" she asked cautiously, her voice carrying a hint of disbelief.
Irina glanced at her, her smirk sharpening slightly. "Yes."
Then her fiery gaze flicked to Astron, a sharp retort forming in her mind. She wanted to say something—anything—to call him out for siding with Sylvie so calmly, so casually, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. But as her eyes shifted to Sylvie and the others watching them, she thought better of it. 'Not here,' she decided.
Instead, she stepped closer to Astron and pinched his arm, her nails digging in just enough to make her point.
Astron turned his head toward her, his sharp purple eyes narrowing slightly, his expression a mix of confusion and curiosity. It was as though he were silently asking, 'What are you doing?'
Irina didn't answer. She just straightened her posture, let out a soft "Humph," and turned her head away, her fiery hair swaying with the motion.
The expression on Astron's face was a small curvature of lips….it was subtle but unmistakable, though he wisely chose not to comment.
Before Irina could say anything more—or act on the simmering annoyance still bubbling in her chest—another figure approached. Jasmine, Sylvie's deskmate and another member of their team, walked up with a determined expression. Her dark green hair was tied back neatly, and her sharp, calculating eyes locked onto Irina.
"I agree with Sylvie," Jasmine said, her voice steady and confident. "Meeting earlier is the smart choice."
Though as her eyes met with Irina's….
"Ehm….We need to go over our strategies and roles properly. Waiting until the last minute could leave us vulnerable."
Irina glanced at Jasmine, her fiery eyes narrowing slightly.
'This vixen.'
This behavior…It was something she could see and understand.
Irina crossed her arms, exhaling sharply. "Fine," she said, her tone edged with reluctant acceptance. "If that's what the team wants, we'll meet earlier."
Sylvie looked slightly relieved, though she tried to mask it with a nod of agreement. "Thank you," she said, her voice steady but quieter now. Though Irina could understand that, she was quite happy.
The smile on her face was telling Irina everything she needed to know.
'Tch….'
And it was annoying, though it was Irina herself that had brought it to herself, so there was nothing she could do about it.
"Sigh…"
She could only release a sigh while glancing down at her smartwatch, the display showing the dwindling time left before the practical session. She let out another quiet sigh, her fiery amber eyes narrowing slightly. There wasn't much time left already, and her irritation at the situation wasn't helping her focus.
She turned her attention to Astron, who stood calmly beside her, his sharp purple eyes watching the exchange with his usual unreadable demeanor. "Let's meet later then," she said, her tone casual but deliberate. Her fiery gaze flicked briefly to Sylvie and Jasmine, ensuring they noticed the exchange.
Astron nodded once, his voice calm and even. "I'll be prepared."
Satisfied, Irina gave him a faint smirk before turning on her heel, her fiery hair swaying with the motion. She strode toward the classroom door with her usual confident gait, exuding an air of authority that left little room for challenge. As she passed by Sylvie and Jasmine, she caught the subtle exchange of glances between the two, but she chose not to acknowledge it.
'Let them talk,' she thought, her smirk sharpening slightly as she reached the door. 'If they're going to speculate, I might as well give them something to speculate about.'
Behind her, Astron remained still for a moment before gathering his belongings and moving toward the exit as well. His movements were deliberate, his posture straight and unbothered. "I'll see you all at the meeting," he said simply, his tone as neutral as ever.
And then, they left, Sylvie and Jasmine alone.
*******
The moment Irina and Astron had left, Jasmine let out a long, exaggerated sigh of relief, her shoulders visibly relaxing as she slumped into a nearby chair.
"Whew," she muttered, brushing a stray lock of her green hair out of her face. "Whatever it is about her, our leader is really scary. Did you see those fiery eyes? I felt like I was about to get scorched just standing there."
Sylvie didn't reply immediately, her gaze lingering on the door as her thoughts churned. She still felt the faint weight of Irina's gaze on her—a gaze filled with intent, sharp and deliberate, as though Irina had been sizing her up, calculating her every move. It was a side of Irina Sylvie had never experienced before, and now that she had, it was impossible to ignore.
Jasmine tilted her head toward Sylvie, her tone teasing but edged with curiosity. "What about you? You were standing right in front of her. I thought she was going to set you on fire for daring to question her."
Sylvie blinked, snapping out of her thoughts as she turned to Jasmine. "It wasn't… that bad," she said softly, though the tremor in her voice betrayed her uncertainty.
"Heh….."
Jasmine laughed softly, the sound light and teasing as she leaned forward and placed a hand on Sylvie's shoulder. "But you did well," she said with a grin. "Who would have thought that our little Sylvie could go toe-to-toe with the Irina Emberheart?"
Sylvie blinked, caught off guard by the sudden praise. Her lips curved into a faint smile, though a touch of embarrassment lingered in her expression. "I wouldn't exactly call it 'going against her,'" she murmured, her voice modest.
"Oh, please," Jasmine said, giving Sylvie's shoulder a gentle squeeze. "You stood your ground, didn't you? That's more than most people would dare to do. I mean, the way she looked at me—I thought she was going to turn me into ash on the spot."
Sylvie let out a soft laugh, the tension in her chest easing slightly. "I guess it wasn't as bad as I thought it'd be," she admitted, her voice growing steadier. "But… she's definitely intense."