In the heart of Alofis, at the center of a grand square, stood a building that seemed to radiate light. Its marvelous design and architecture were a testament to the city's elegance. The five-story structure, covering a vast area, was a piece of art in itself, constructed from the most beautiful and prominent marbles in the region. Its windows, framed in silver, caught the winter light, which reflected off the polished marble floors of the grand entrance, enhancing the building's breathtaking beauty.
A long queue of people stood before this magnificent edifice. Each was impeccably dressed in a somber black or grey tailcoat with a matching bow tie. They were the butlers of the most renowned noble families and prominent houses in the capital.
The building they all waited to enter was the most famous restaurant in Alofis: The Armino Restaurant. Renowned for its delicious cuisine throughout the Atheliya Empire, its meals and desserts were known for a texture and flavor that, once experienced, could never be forgotten. The delicacy of its dishes was the primary factor in its fame, but its reputation was also cemented by the fact that its chefs provided exclusive service to the Imperial Family.
The Armino's five stories were tiered by exclusivity, with the expense of a seat increasing with each floor. The rooftop was the pinnacle—a place so exclusive that no ordinary person could ever afford a seat. It offered a spectacular, panoramic view of the entire capital, a sight that was worth any price. However, it wasn't just the cost; the rooftop was reserved for VVIP guests only: high-ranking officials and members of the most powerful noble houses.
Today was the New Year, and the line of butlers waiting for their family's reservations was long. The sky was a uniform grey, heavy with clouds, and though sweepers had cleared the snow from the street, a biting chill was in the air. Everyone was bundled in long coats and mufflers.
"Gods, this is taking longer than expected," one butler grumbled. "How long must we stand here?"
"I've been waiting since morning and still haven't gotten our number," another lamented. "The family head will be furious."
"What can we do?" a third man sighed. "It's the New Year. We can only wait our turn."
While the butlers were absorbed in their conversation, three figures bypassed the queue entirely, walking past them without a second glance. It was Kayle, Silvia, and Sara, walking side by side.
Silvia looked gorgeous in a long white coat over a matching suit, a vibrant red muffler adding a splash of color. Sara radiated a darker allure in a black coat and a full black casual suit, contrasted by a crisp white muffler—a beauty that could capture any heart. Between them, Kayle wore a white long coat over a light blue high-neck sweater and white jeans.
They stopped at the entrance, and every eye in the queue turned to them. A hostess approached, her own eyes wide with amazement at the sheer beauty and charisma of the young trio.
"Sir, Ma'am, please join the line," she said politely.
Silvia took a step forward. "Why? We have a reservation."
"Ma'am, all of these people also have reservations, but they are waiting for their turn," the hostess explained patiently.
"Please, try to understand."
Silvia and Sara looked at Kayle. He gave them a reassuring smile and approached the hostess. Her breath caught as he drew near, his features even more striking up close.
"Here," Kayle said, handing her a golden token.
The woman's eyes widened in shock as she saw it. "I-I am so sorry, sir!" she stammered. "It was my mistake. Please, come right inside."
As the three of them entered the restaurant, the butlers behind them erupted in anger.
"Hey! Why did you let them in?" one shouted.
"Yes! Are we fools for standing here for hours?" another demanded.
"Everyone, please maintain silence!" the hostess called out, her voice firm. "The gentleman who just entered was Mr. Kayle from Venessa Academy."
A murmur went through the crowd as they all recognized the name. Kayle, the only known four-elemental user in the empire, the founder of hybrid spells who had restructured the very principles of magic—his achievements had made him a legend.
"And," the hostess added, her voice filled with awe, "he holds a golden reservation. Not even the manager could stop him."
Her words sent another shockwave through the line. Reservations at The Armino were color-coded to represent the five floors: Blue for the first, Crimson for the second, Violet for the third, Silver for the fourth, and Golden for the fifth—the rooftop.
"I knew he was an important figure," a butler muttered, "but a golden reservation... even my master has never managed that."
"You're right. If my master learns of this, he will be utterly shocked," said another.
"Man... and they call him a commoner. With a move like this, he's proven he is not a man to be taken lightly."
– – –
Inside, the restaurant was as beautiful as its exterior. A polished marble floor reflected the light from a magnificent crystal chandelier, the furniture was accented in gold and silver, and wide windows offered views of the bustling square. It was a space worthy of its reputation.
"Wow, I've never seen a restaurant this beautiful," Silvia said, her curiosity piqued.
"Kayle, where are our seats?"
"Come with me," he replied.
He approached the reception desk and showed his token once more. A dedicated escort immediately came forward and led them to a lift-like machine. They stepped inside, and it ascended smoothly, stopping at the rooftop.
Both Silvia and Sara were stunned by the view. It was their first time on the top floor of The Armino. The rooftop was an open-air marvel of precious stones and white marble inlaid with intricate floral designs. Transparent glass walls lined the perimeter, offering an uninterrupted, breathtaking view of the entire city. The woman escorted them to a corner table, nestled right against the glass wall.
"This is gorgeous!" Silvia exclaimed as she took her seat, mesmerized. "I've seen the capital from the academy's research towers, but I never thought it could look this beautiful. Kayle, how did you get a seat here? We're on the rooftop of The Armino! No one can just get a reservation here."
"I'm also very curious, Kayle," Sara said, her eyes shining with excitement. "This place is only for the most important figures in the empire. Only My parents have been here, but not even my brother has managed it. How did you do it?"
"It was nothing much," Kayle replied casually. "I just asked Sir Jackson for a favor, and he got us in."
'That's a total lie," Aeon thought. "It's nothing for me to disguise myself as the manager and reserve a seat. Much simpler."
"I should thank Sir Jackson, then!" Silvia said earnestly. "He's helped us so much already. I'll go to him personally to thank him."
"No, no, no!" Kayle shouted, a hint of panic in his voice
"What's wrong, Kayle? Why are you shouting?" Sara asked.
"Ah... I mean, he's a very busy person," Kayle said, quickly recovering. "It wouldn't be a good idea to just show up and disturb him unannounced."
"Well, you're right," Silvia conceded. "We'll thank him later."
"Okay, guys," Kayle said, relieved. "Order whatever you want."
They did. Silvia and Sara ordered the specialties of The Armino together: their famous multi-flavored steaks, fruit pies, salads, juices, and more. When the food arrived, their mouths watered. Without wasting a second, they dug in like true foodies.
"Mmm, this is delicious! I can't get enough of it," Sara said, savoring a bite of steak. "Now I understand why everyone raves about this place."
"Mmmhmm! This fruit pie truly has twenty different flavors," Silvia said in bliss. "How do they even make it? I could never grow bored of this."
Watching their happy expressions, Kayle felt a deep sense of satisfaction as he enjoyed his own meal with them.
After they had finished, they sat back, sipping their juice. "How was the food?" Kayle asked.
"It was fantastic," Silvia said. "I've never had anything like it."
"Yes," Sara added. "I've always longed to try Armino's steak, and today I finally did. Seriously, Kayle, it was the best of the best. Thank you."
"I'm glad you both liked it." Kayle said.
"I wish we could come here again," Silvia said with a sad expression, "but I don't think that's possible."
"If you want to come here again, then we will," Kayle said confidently.
"Oh, please, Kayle," she scoffed. "We only got a seat on the rooftop thanks to Sir Jackson. We can't just come back unless you suddenly become someone of high status."
"Want to make a bet on whether we can or not?" he challenged with a smirk.
"Ooh, that much confidence?" Silvia's eyes widened.
"Silvia, don't bet with him," Sara warned, a knowing smile on her face. "He's playing with you."
"What do you mean?" She asked.
"I think you didn't look closely at the reservation token," Sara explained. "The reservation was in his name. And the hostess recognized him the moment she saw him. The whole continent knows him as the founder of a new school of magic, the man who changed the fundamental principles of the magic itself. In terms of qualifications, he has already surpassed all the so-called prodigies and made a name for himself. Do you really think it will be hard for him to get a reservation here in the future?"
Silvia's eyes narrowed as she looked at Kayle. "You bastard! You dared to trick me!" she said, pinching his arm.
"Ouch, ouch! Sorry, I was wrong!" Kayle pleaded.
"And you, Silvia," Sara continued, "you are now the youngest seventh-circle mage in history. Your own status has increased dramatically. Powerful families and organizations will be begging to recruit you."
Silvia's expression softened. "That wouldn't have happened without Kayle. The reason I'm breathing and enjoying this life right now is all thanks to his efforts and the potion he brought back for me. Otherwise, I'd be in my grave."
"So, it was true."
A clear, feminine voice came from behind them. They all turned. Standing there was Jennica Roxidon. Accompanying her was another young woman of breathtaking beauty.
She had unique mixed black and greyhair and striking grey eyes, with a tall, elegant stature and a beautiful figure. She was Scarlet Maklice, the youngest daughter of Duke Harrison Maklice.
Scarlet and Jennica stepped forward, their approach bringing them face-to-face with Kayle. Scarlet's grey eyes scanned him with an amused curiosity, a faint, fox-like smile playing on her lips. Jennica, on the other hand, simply looked happy to see him again.
"What are you doing here, Scarlet?" Sara asked, her eyes narrowing.
Scarlet's smile didn't waver. "Hello to you too, Sara. I didn't expect to run into you here."
"That wasn't my question," Sara said coldly.
"Perhaps we could have a seat and talk?" Scarlet suggested, her gaze flicking towards the empty chairs.
"Yes, please," Kayle interjected smoothly before the tension could escalate.
Sara immediately left her seat and sat down right next to Kayle, a clear, possessive gesture. Scarlet and Jennica took the seats opposite them.
"Hello, Miss Jennica, Miss Scarlet," Kayle greeted them politely.
"Hi, Kayle! It's so good to see you again," Jennica said warmly.
"You as well," Kayle replied. "Last time, it was at your family's mansion."
"I know, and you didn't even stay! You were in such a rush." Her expression turned to one of genuine concern. "How are your wounds? You were in a terrible state back then. I was so worried about you."
"I'm fine now," Kayle said. "It's all thanks to Lord David's heroic-grade healing potions. I was able to survive, miss Jennica"
"Please, drop the formality, Kayle. We're the same age," Jennica said, a relieved smile gracing her face. "And I'm so glad you're not still angry with my father."
"How could I be?" Kayle said diplomatically. "The head of the great Roxidon clan was simply curious. Anyone would have been."
Silvia then turned to Jennica with a warm smile. "Hello, Miss Jennica. I'm Silvia. I've been wanting to thank you and your father properly for the potions that saved Kayle."
"Please, you don't need to thank us," Jennica replied graciously. "And call me Jennica. We're the same age."
Sara's attention then snapped back to Scarlet, who was still observing Kayle with that sly, knowing smile. The Duke's proposal from the day before echoed in her mind, and a knot of worry tightened in her stomach.
"So, what are you doing in the capital, Scarlet? Shouldn't you be at your house right now?" Sara asked sharply.
"Oh, as you can see, I'm enjoying my graduation with Jennica. And as you know, Armino Restaurant is very famous, so I made a reservation here," Scarlet replied.
"So that's why we didn't see you at your house," Sara said.
"Yeah, and I heard about what happened during your assignment from my father and Jennica," Scarlet said, her voice calm. "At first, I couldn't believe it, but what you all were talking about before made it certain that it was true. Oh, and please don't mind it; I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I was coming over to greet you and just happened to overhear."
Scarlet politely explained herself to avoid any misunderstanding.
"So that's why I was curious about you, Kayle," Scarlet said, her voice soft. "You're really something else. When the world finds out about what you did, you'll be more famous than you are now. But you know, what you did was reckless and foolish."
"You're right, Miss Scarlet," Kayle replied. "That's why I want you and Jennica not to tell anyone about it. So other people won't follow my foolish example and put themselves in danger."
"Of course," Jennica said. "We both know that if this story becomes public, it would be a disaster. Many people would try to save their loved ones by putting their own lives on the line, and that would cause their families great pain. So don't worry, we'll keep it a secret. Right, Scarlet?"
"Absolutely," Scarlet replied, her gaze fixed on Kayle. "And my family is already indebted to you. If we had managed our territory correctly, we would have known about the attack beforehand. Silvia wouldn't have been injured, and you wouldn't have needed to put your life in danger. Rest assured, Kayle, we'll keep it a secret."
"Thank you, Miss Scarlet," Kayle said, genuinely relieved.
"But if we look at it from a different perspective, these events turned in Silvia's favor," Jennica said. "She became the youngest Seventh Circle Mage in history, a feat not even Sara or we could achieve. I don't think anyone will be able to do it again for a long time."
"I'll just say one thing," Silvia interjected. "It all became possible because of Kayle. Otherwise, I'd be in my grave right now."
Then scarlet changed the topic.
"Well, I was thinking of staying in the capital for a few more days," Scarlet said, a subtle weight in her voice. "How about we all spend some time together? It's not like we all meet every day. What do you think, Sara?"
Sara knew that Scarlet hadn't just come for a greeting; she had an ulterior motive. But before Sara could respond, Silvia enthusiastically agreed.
"Yeah, that's a great idea! And it just so happens that we have a few days of holidays because of the assignments," Silvia said, completely oblivious to Sara's internal struggle.
"You moron!" Sara thought, her eyes widening in shock."You just gave a thief the keys to the locker! Scarlet, that sly fox, knew I wouldn't be able to deny her without a good reason, and now Silvia has already agreed."
Scarlet looked at Sara with a mischievous smile. She then turned to Kayle. "So, Kayle, is it okay with you?"
Sara stared at Kayle, desperately waiting for his answer.
"I'm happy to hear that," Kayle said. "But I'm sorry, I have some prior arrangements, so I won't be able to join you."
Sara's expression shifted from panic to relief and joy.
"But why? Can't you make some time for us?" Scarlet asked, genuinely surprised.
"I'm really sorry, Miss Scarlet, but I have some academy-related work to do," Kayle said. "I apologize."
"That's not fair, Kayle!" Jennica said, her voice filled with frustration. "You didn't even stay at my place, and now you're turning me down again! How can you call yourself a friend? I'm disappointed."
Sara shot Jennica a murderous glare." That Alchemy powder! Can't she just shut up for a bit?" Sara thought.
"Yeah, Kayle, shouldn't you be free?" Silvia asked, a hint of confusion in her voice. "What kind of work do you have during the holidays?"
Sara clenched her fist, frustrated with Silvia's naive question.
"You don't know this, but Professor Lucy was very angry with me," Kayle said, quickly coming up with an excuse. "She even told me she'd punish me personally, and now I have to take care of her administration work. You can ask Sara if you don't believe me."
Sara's face lit up with understanding. "Yeah, I was there. Professor Lucy was so angry that I was intimidated by her. It's best to leave Kayle alone."
"Hmph, this is the second time you've done this, Kayle," Jennica grumbled.
"I'm sorry, everyone," Kayle said. "I promise to make it up to you later."
As the matter was resolved and everyone stood up to leave, a man walked before them, blocking their path. He was in his forties, with a short, mixed white-and-black beard. Kayle's eyes widened with a mix of shock and cold anger.
"What the hell is he doing here?" Aeon thought, his mind racing.
This man was Bellatora Sanctivus, a Third Circle Mage and the grandson of Regalis Sanctivus, an Eighth Circle Mage and one of the Eight Stars of the continent.
The Sovereign's Touch.
"He's the one who put the curse on Ines," Aeon realized, his fists clenching at the sight of him.