Chapter 271: A Passionate Night of Desire (2) (R18)
In the next second, whatever reason Arthur had left began to crumble.
His gaze filled with unmistakable desire as his crimson eyes met her golden ones.
He kissed her back even more fiercely, and for a moment, It felt as though they were completely losing themselves in each other.
This time, Arthur didn't hold back.
Athena gasped softly as he pulled her against him and claimed her lips with a fiercer kiss. Their mouths moved together hungrily, neither willing to let the other go. Arthur's hand tightened at her waist while Athena clung to his shoulders.
When he finally broke the kiss, it was only to lower his lips to her neck.
He kissed the line of her throat, then the sensitive skin beneath her ear. Athena shivered sharply, her fingers tightening in his hair as he left a heated mark along her neck.
"Arthur..." she breathed.
Her voice nearly destroyed what remained of his restraint.
In one motion, Arthur wrapped his arms around her firm figure and lifted her into his arms.
Athena let out a quiet gasp and instinctively wrapped her arms around his back. Her golden hair brushed his face as he carried her across the room, her white dress shifting against him with every step.
He placed her carefully on the bed.
They kissed again Immediately.
Arthur leaned over her, one hand at her waist, the other cradling the side of her face. Athena pulled him down by the collar, demanding another kiss, and Arthur gave it to her-slower at first, then deeper as their restraint disappeared.
The white fabric of her dress became rumpled beneath his hands as he pulled her closer. He kissed her mouth, her jaw, her throat, and the line of her collarbone, marking her skin with possessive, lingering kisses.
Athena's breathing turned uneven as their eyes met.
Athena's hands found the hem of her dress, pulling it up and over her head to reveal a lacy white bra that accentuated her ample breasts. Arthur's eyes widened as he took a deep breath. He leaned down, his tongue flicking out to taste her, leaving a trail of kisses from her chest to her lips.
Athena gasped, her head falling back, her body arching into Arthur's touch. Arthur's hands reached behind her, unhooking her bra with expert ease. Athena's breasts spilled free, her nipples hard and begging for his touch. Arthur obliged, his hands cupping her, his thumbs brushing over her sensitive peaks.
"Ah-
"Ah- be gentle," Athena moaned, her body writhing beneath his touch.
Arthur's lips followed the path of his hands, his tongue flicking out to taste her, his teeth gently biting down on her nipple. Athena cried out, her fingers tangling in his hair, holding him to her.
Arthur groaned, his hips jerking forward. Athena's eyes never left his as Arthur slowly removed every single piece of remaining clothing from her body, revealing her completely to him. Arthur's control hung by a thread.
As he took off his own clothes, his manhood sprang free, and Athena's eyes widened in surprise and anticipation.
"It's massive."
Her eyes were half-lidded, her face flushed with desire as she looked up at him.
"Give it to me," she whispered.
Arthur went still.
Then the last of his reason broke.
He pulled away only long enough to cast aside what separated them, then returned to Athena with a hunger that made her catch her breath. Her hands moved over his shoulders as he drew her close again, their bodies pressed together beneath the tangled sheets.
Arthur's vampiric instincts surged.
The sound of her heartbeat, the warmth of her skin, the scent of her blood-it all threatened to consume him. He kissed her neck again as his hand traced down her legs, forcing himself to remain in control even as his hunger and desire tangled together.
Athena held him tightly.
The room filled with the sound of their moans, the rustling of sheets, and the wet friction of skin on skin. They moved together, their bodies slick with sweat, their breaths coming in ragged gasps. Arthur's hands roamed over Athena's body, leaving marks of his possession, and his desire.
Athena's body tensed, her back arching as she cried out, her nails digging into Arthur's back. Arthur, his body taut with pleasure, followed her over the edge, his frame shuddering with release. They collapsed onto the bed, their bodles entwined, their hearts pounding in sync.
The room filled with uneven breaths, muffled sounds, and the rustle of sheets.
Outside, the night remained silent.
Inside, Arthur and Athena lost themselves completely in each other.
The rest of the night belonged only to them.
The glowing sun symbol on Arthur's hand and the moon symbol on Athena's hand continued to shine brightly. Yet, lost in the Intensity of the moment, neither of them noticed the mysterious symbols growing brighter with every passing second.
Morning arrived quietly over the luxurious 7 star hotel. Soft sunlight slipped through the curtains of Arthur's room, illuminating the spacious bedroom and the large bed where Arthur was still sleeping soundly beneath the white blanket, completely exhausted.
Bzzzt. Bzzzt. Bzzzt.
His phone continued vibrating on the bedside table. Arthur's eyebrows twitched before his crimson eyes finally opened. Still half-asleep, he reached for the phone and muttered, "Who is it...?"
The moment he answered, Layla's furious volce exploded through the speaker, "Where the hell are you?! The second match is about to begin, and you're nowhere to be seen!"
Arthur winced and pulled the phone slightly away from his ear.
"Get your lazy butt over here right now!" Layla continued. "I've already sent Damlan and Alden to pick you up!"
Arthur rubbed his forehead. "Walt, I-"
"And if you know where Miss Athena Is, tell her to come too! The other VIPs have been looking for her!"
Click.
The call ended.
Arthur stared blankły at his phone. Then the name Athena echoed through his mind, and a sudden Jolt ran through him. Fragments of the previous night began rushing back into his head-the white dress, her golden hair, those golden eyes, and everything that had happened between them.
Arthur's face slowly turned pale.
"No... no, no, no..."
He shook his head desperately. "It's gotta be a dream. Yeah... I'm dreaming. Those memories are also a dream." His eyes remained fixed ahead as he tried to convince himself. "There is no one beside me."
He closed his eyes for a moment.
"System... my friend... tell me I'm dreaming!
The system answered almost immediately.
[Sorry, Host. It's reality.]
Arthur's face went completely blank.
[But please don't die. I advise you to run away before she wakes up.]
Arthur's eyes widened.
"Noooooooo"
He slowly turned his head. And froze.
A golden-haired beauty was sleeping peacefully beside him. Athena's long golden hair was scattered across the pillow, while the white blanket covered her body. Her peaceful expression showed absolutely no sign that she was aware of the chaos currently unfolding In Arthur's mind.
Arthur stared at her in complete disbelief.
For several seconds, he couldn't even speak.
Then he slowly looked toward the door.
'I have to leave. Right now.'
Carefully, Arthur began moving toward the edge of the bed, trying not to make even the slightest sound.
He was almost there when-Knock! Knock!
Arthur froze.
A loud volce came from outside.
"Arthur, you lazy bastard! It's time for the second match! Drag your lazy ass out here!"
Arthur immediately recognized Damian's voice.
Then Damian shouted again, "And have you seen my master? I can't seem to contact her!"
Arthur slowly turned his head toward Athena. Then he looked back at the door, His expression became one of absolute despair.
"How the hell am I supposed to tell this bastard that he couldn't contact his master because I was banging her all night long
Chapter 270: A Passionate Night of Desire (1) (R18)
Night fell over the floating Island of Celestias Academy.
The Golden Colosseum, which had been roaring with the cheers of more than 100,000 spectators only hours earlier, now rested beneath a calm silver moon.
Soft lights shimmered across the Island's luxurious hotels, towering buildings, and elegant stone pathways, casting a warm glow over the qulet night.
The first day of the Inter-Academy Tournament had finally come to an end.
And Celestias Academy had claimed the first major victory.
After the Treasure Hunt match, the students returned to the luxurious hotel reserved for their academy.
The banquet hall had already been prepared for a celebration.
A long dining table stretched across the center of the spacious room, covered with an extravagant assortment of food. Delicately prepared dishes, rare fruits, freshly baked bread, roasted meat, desserts, and drinks Imported from distant regions filled the table.
At the center stood several elegant silver bottles.
They contained Silverleaf Vintage.
A rare Elvish wine renowned throughout the world for its smooth taste, refined fragrance, and rich mana-Infused flavor.
Athena had gifted the wine to the students after their overwhelming victory,
She was clearly in an excellent mood.
Even though her face remained hidden behind her vell, the satisfaction in her voice was impossible to miss.
That night, Athena wore a beautiful white dress.
The fabric flowed gracefully around her figure, made from a soft, luminous material that seemed to reflect the moonlight Itself. Pale golden threads were embroidered along the sleeves and hem, while a thin silver belt rested elegantly around her walst.
Her long golden hair flowed freely over her shoulders.
The entire outfit made her appear elegant, powerful, and almost unreal.
Like a goddess who had descended among mortals to attend their celebration.
But Arthur noticed something that everyone else seemed to overlook.
Athena's breathing was slightly ragged.
It was barely noticeable.
Her posture remained perfectly straight, and her volce remained calm and controlled, but Arthur could still sense the subtle strain in her movements.
He wondered if it was simply because she was still recovering from the falled ritual and the enormous amount of power she had used recently.
He decided not to say anything.
'She can handle herself!
The legal drinking age in this world was 15, so the young students freely raised their glasses,
"Cheers!"
The banquet hall immediately erupted with laughter.
Glasses clinked together as the students of Celestias Academy celebrated their victory and drank the rare Silverleaf Vintage
The wine was smooth with a faint sweetness, leaving behind a refreshing sensation with every sip. A gentle warmth soon spread through their bodies, easing the exhaustion left behind by the day's battles.
For a while, there was nothing but laughter and celebration.
The first day of the tournament had featured only a single match.
But starting tomorrow, there would be 2 matches every day.
However, the students who had participated in the Treasure Hunt would not be allowed to participate in the following day's matches.
That meant Arthur, Victor, Evangline, Jasmine, and Rubina would be forced to rest while the remaining students took the field.
Celestias Academy had already secured a massive advantage.
Their victory, combined with the A-Rank monster kill, the treasures they had obtained, and the bonus points they had accumulated, had created a 12-point gap between them and the other academies.
For the first time in years, Celestias Academy stood at the top of the tournament rankings.
The students were delighted.
The atmosphere was light.
Hopeful
Filled with laughter, excitement, and pride.
Arthur, however, sat alone on a couch near the edge of the banquet hall.
A glass of Silverleaf Vintage rested loosely in his hand.
He stared silently at the golden liquid Inside.
"So this was your plan, huh?"
Layla's voice suddenly came from beside him.
Arthur looked up.
Layla had taken a seat next to him, a wine glass of her own resting in her hand.
"What do you mean?" Arthur asked.
He leaned back against the couch and took a slow sip of the Silverleaf Vintage.
Layla glanced toward the students who were still celebrating.
"You participated in the first match to create a massive point difference."
Arthur remained silent.
"And by doing that, you relieved the pressure from the other students in the upcoming matches."
Her blue eyes narrowed slightly.
"They won't feel like they have to win every single match anymore."
Arthur gave a faint smile.
"Well, you're not entirely wrong"
Layla looked at him carefully.
She understood how much Arthur had actually risked.
He had deliberately allowed the other academies to gather around the A-Rank Chimera.
He had allowed them to attack It.
He had even allowed the crystal to remain exposed while Ava and Eva moved toward it.
All for the additional 5 points he could obtain by defeating the boss.
It had been an all-or-nothing gamble.
If his plan had falled, another academy could have stolen the crystal.
Celestias Academy might have walked away with only a handful of points.
But Arthur had succeeded.
Layla lowered her gaze toward the wine in her hand.
"He risked everything to create an advantage for us.'
The realization left her with complicated emotions.
Before she could say anything else, Diana approached them.
Her cheeks were slightly red, and her steps were noticeably unsteady.
It was obvious that she had drunk more Silverleaf Vintage than she could handle.
"Who do you plan on sending for tomorrow's matches?" Diana asked.
Arthur slowly stood from the couch.
"Let's wait and see what the matches are before deciding."
Diana nodded.
Arthur began walking toward the exit.
Then Diana spoke again.
"You did a good job not killing the Glacier Peak Academy twins."
Arthur stopped.
He looked back at her.
Diana's expression was slightly intoxicated, but her eyes remained sharp.
She understood.
Arthur had deliberately chosen not to attack Ava and Eva when he used Blink.
He could have eliminated them.
He could have cut them down before taking the crystal.
But he hadn't.
Because eliminating them would have made Glacier Peak Academy even more desperate.
It would have created another powerful enemy for Celestias Academy.
Perhaps Arthur had seen more value in keeping the twins alive than eliminating them.
Arthur simply nodded.
Then he turned and continued walking.
It was hardly surprising that Diana had understood him.
Arthur liked people who could understand his intentions without needing every detall explained.
People who could look at his actions and see the meaning hidden behind them.
Arthur was almost at the exit when someone suddenly grabbed his hand.
He stopped.
Astarte stood beside him.
She was wearing a stunning violet evening dress.
The fabric was dark and elegant, flowing around her body like liquid shadow. The dress exposed her shoulders and arms while maintaining an air of refinement, and the fitted walst accentuated her graceful figure.
A thin silver necklace rested around her neck.
Her violet hair cascaded down her back, shimmering beneath the warm lights of the banquet hall.
Astarte looked dangerously beautiful.
"Where are you going by yourself?" she asked.
Her tone was gentle.
But Arthur knew better.
"There is still time."
Arthur smiled at her.
"My lady, I'm tired today."
His voice became noticeably more polite.
"I promise I'll spend more time with you tomorrow."
Arthur gently removed his hand from her grasp.
"Please, can you let me go for now?"
Astarte studied his face.
Her violet eyes gradually became more serious.
"Is something bothering you?"
Arthur's smile faded slightly.
"Well, yeah."
He turned his gaze toward the nearby window.
Outside, the floating Island was peaceful beneath the moonlight.
But inside his chest, an uneasy feeling refused to disappear.
"A lot of things are bothering me."
Arthur took a slow breath.
"I keep getting the feeling that something Isn't right."
His eyes dropped toward the wine in his hand.
"That's why I'm going to sleep. I'm also quite drunk."
A tired smile appeared on his face.
"I don't like bothersome things. I prefer to sleep and forget about them."
Astarte remained silent for a moment.
Then her expression softened.
"If you need my help, you can ask"
Arthur gave her a warm smile.
"I'm honored."
With that, he turned around and left the banquet hall.
Astarte silently watched him disappear through the doors.
After a few seconds, she turned around and returned to Aiden's side.
.....
Isabella had been watching Arthur leave.
Once he disappeared from sight, she turned toward Jasmine.
"Why does he treat her so gently?"
Jasmine didn't answer.
Isabella continued.
"And why does he keep his distance from us?"
Evangline, who was sitting nearby with a glass of wine in her hand, raised an eyebrow.
"The bastard prefers older women, I think."
Isabella's eyes widened.
Diana, who had overheard the conversation, also looked surprised.
For a moment, none of them sald anything.
But the more they thought about it, the more strangely convincing the theory seemed.
Arthur treated Astarte with respect.
He acted unusually polite around Athena.
He seemed more cautious around older women.
And despite spending so much time around girls his own age, he rarely showed any romantic Interest in them.
Layla suddenly spoke.
"Now I understand."
Everyone turned toward her.
Layla took another sip of wine.
"That pervert didn't make a move on me even though he lives with a hottle like me."
The entire table went silent.
Everyone stared at Layla In complete shock.
Layla ignored their gazes.
She calmly took another sip of wine.
As though she hadn't just said something completely ridiculous.
Meanwhile, Arthur finally reached his room.
The corridor swayed slightly beneath his unsteady steps as he searched for his key. After a moment of fumbling, he unlocked the door and pushed it open.
Then, he stopped.
Athena was sitting on the sofa inside his room.
She wore a white dress, its pale fabric draped over her figure like moonlight. Her veil was gone.
Arthur had seen her looking beautiful before, but without the veil, she was almost unreal. Long golden hair poured over her shoulders in soft waves. Her cheeks were flushed, her lips slightly parted, and her gold eyes shone with a strange, feverish intensity. The white dress clung to the graceful shape of her waist and hips, leaving Arthur staring far longer than he meant to.
He shut the door behind him and sighed.
"What the hell are you doing here?" he asked. "Didn't you have a meeting to attend?"
Athena stood from the sofa.
Her cheeks grew redder. One hand moved to her chest as she tried to control her breathing.
"I was waiting for you," she said quietly. "Something is wrong with me."
Arthur's expression turned serious. "Why? What's happening?"
Athena began walking toward him.
Her steps were slow and unsteady. Her breathing became heavier as she approached, and when she stumbled, Arthur immediately reached out, his hand gently cupping her arm, his thumb brushing against her soft skin.
"What's wrong?" he asked. "Are you okay?"
Athena looked up at him.
For several seconds, she said nothing.
Her golden eyes moved over his face, lingering on his lips. Then she clicked her tongue softly, her expression turning dangerously seductive.
"Why do you look so appetizing right now?" she whispered.
Arthur's cheeks turned even redder.
"Am I still drunk, or are you?" he muttered. "Tell me your room number. I'll take you there. You need to-"
His words were cut off as Athena's lips met his, her kiss soft yet demanding.
Arthur froze.
For a brief moment, he did not understand what had happened. All he could feel was the softness of her lips and the heat of her body pressed close to his.
Then he tried to push her away.
"Athena, wait-"
She did not let him.
Athena was far stronger than she looked. Her fingers remained locked in his shirt as she pulled him closer and deepened the kiss. It became more demanding, more desperate, until Arthur's thoughts began to blur beneath the warmth of the alcohol and the overwhelming pull of her touch.
His head felt hazy.
His heartbeat was loud in his ears.
And despite every warning in his mind, he was beginning to want her too.
Arthur opened his eyes slowly.
Athena stared back at him with a lust-filled gaze. Her golden hair had fallen messily around her face, and her white dress seemed even more striking against her flushed skin. Her body trembled in his arms, soft and warm, while her eyes silently asked him to stop resisting.
Only one thought entered Arthur's mind.
'Fuck it.'
Chapter 272: Exhibitionist
Damlan stood outside Arthur's hotel room, his impatience growing with every passing second.
He glanced down at his watch again.
Only 40 minutes remained.
"Damn it. Only 40 minutes are left."
The second match of the Inter-Academy Tournament would begin soon.
Every participating student needed to be selected, prepared, and present in Celestias Academy's meeting room before the event was officially announced.
But Arthur was still inside his room.
And Damian had absolutely no idea what that idiot was doing.
Beside him, Aiden leaned against the hallway wall with his arms crossed.
"Calm down," Aiden said. "If he doesn't come, Senior Layla will choose the participants instead."
Damlan's eyes widened.
"What if she doesn't choose me?"
His hands clenched into fists.
"My father is here."
His expression became serious.
"The honor of the Stromborn Family is on the line."
He lowered his gaze, his voice becoming more determined.
"I have to show him how much I've grown."
A faint aura stirred around his body.
"How strong I've become."
Alden looked at him carefully.
"So you came here to request that Arthur choose you for the next event."
Damlan stopped.
"Exactly."
Alden narrowed his eyes.
Then he gave Damlan an exasperated look.
"Then why do you look like you came here to pick a fight?"
Damian clicked his tongue and looked away.
"I don't know,"
He paused.
"Maybe because he's an honorless bastard who will do anything to win."
Aiden said.
"You're still holding a grudge over the entrance exam."
Damian's mouth twitched.
"I don't like him."
He paused for a moment.
"But you can say that I respect him."
His eyes became more serious.
"For the strength he possesses."
His hands clenched again.
"All 3 of us are System users,"
Damian looked toward Arthur's closed door.
"But he's on another level."
Alden nodded.
"Well, I can't argue with that."
He was about to say something else.
But before he could finish-Click.
The door suddenly opened.
Damian and Alden froze.
For several seconds, neither of them moved.
Arthur stepped out.
He was wearing nothing but his underwear.
His entire body trembled slightly.
His clothes were nowhere to be seen.
His upper body was fully exposed, revealing a lean but well-defined physique. His muscles were clearly visible beneath his pale skin, while sharp lines of abdominal muscles ran across his stomach.
His shoulders were broad.
His arms were muscular.
Yet his body wasn't bulky.
It was the physique of someone built for speed and combat -lean, powerful, and far more dangerous than his appearance suggested.
Arthur didn't even acknowledge Damian and Aiden at first.
Instead, he slowly turned around and closed the door behind him.
Very slowly.
Carefully
As if even the slightest sound might awaken some terrifying disaster sleeping inskle the room.
Damian slowly turned toward Aklen.
Then he spoke in a completely dry voice.
"I take back my previous statement."
Alden raised an eyebrow
Damian looked at Arthur with disgust.
"This exhibitionist bastard doesn't deserve my respect at
all
Old saying.
"Well, I can't argue with that either."
Arthur finally turned toward them.
He Immediately placed one finger over his lips.
"Shhhhh."
His eyes were wide.
"One wrong move, and all 3 of us will die."
Alden frowned.
"What? Why?"
He glanced toward Arthur's room.
"Is there an enemy inside?"
His gaze then dropped toward Arthur's clothes.
"And why are you coming out like an exhibitionist in nothing but your underwear?"
Arthur looked down at himself.
For a moment, he said nothing.
It's a good thing my underwear was nearby and in decent condition.
His expression became slightly awkward.
'My clothes were not.'
Aiden and Damian finally noticed the marks scattered across Arthur's body.
Several reddish marks covered his neck and upper chest.
There were also faint nail marks along his arms and shoulders.
Aiden's eyes widened.
"And what are those marks?"
He leaned closer,
"Don't tell me you slept with-"
"Losers don't ask questions."
Arthur immediately cut him off.
His expression became serious.
"And I haven't slept with anyone."
He looked away.
"Just drop it."
Damlan stared at him for several seconds.
Then he rubbed his forehead.
*Can you deal with your weird fetishes later?"
His voice was cold.
"We have a tournament to win."
Arthur's mouth twitched.
He muttered under his breath.
I wonder whether you'll say the same thing after looking Inside"
Damian frowned.
"Did you say something?"
Arthur ignored the question.
"Give me some clothes."
Alden stared at him.
"Are we walking clothing shops?"
Arthur crossed his arms.
"What good are you useless bastards?"
Damlan said.
He reached into his storage ring.
A plain white shirt and a pair of blue jeans appeared in his hands.
"Here."
He tossed the clothes toward Arthur.
"Let's go, you bastard. You've already wasted enough of our time."
Arthur caught the clothes.
He quickly put them on.
The simple white shirt and blue jeans fit him surprisingly well.
Once he was dressed, Arthur glanced back toward his room.
His expression Immediately became tense again. Without warning, he grabbed Damian's hand.
Then Alden's
Let's ga
He began dragging both of them down the hallway.
Damian struggled to keep up.
"Hey
He then remembered something.
His expression became serious.
"Have you seen my master?"
Arthur's steps slowed.
Damlan continued.
"I haven't been able to contact her since last night."
Arthur avoided his gaze.
"Sorry. I haven't met her elther."
Damlan narrowed his eyes.
He glanced back toward Arthur's room.
"Strange."
A complicated expression appeared on his face.
"Was it just my imagination?"
He looked toward the closed door.
Or did I sense a familiar presence Inside that room?"
His eyes then shifted toward the marks on Arthur's neck.
The nail marks.
The fact that Arthur had emerged from his room wearing nothing but his underwear.
Damlan's eyes widened.
'It can't be... right?"
He Immediately shook his head.
'Of course not.'
His face became slightly pale.
"Master and I hate this guy. How could I even think something like that?"
Damian lowered his head.
'Forgive me, Master.'
His expression became solemn.
'I deserve a death sentence for even thinking something like this.
Meanwhile, inside the Golden Colosseum, the second day of the Inter-Academy Tournament had begun.
The massive stands were once again filled with more than 100,000 spectators.
The previous day's Treasure Hunt had created an enormous amount of excitement across the world.
News channels, mana broadcasts, social media platforms, and even betting organizations had spent the entire night discussing Arthur's performance and Celestias Academy's unexpected victory.
Now, the public had returned in even greater numbers.
The atmosphere inside the Colosseum was louder than ever.
The announcer walked onto the central stage.
"Ladies and gentlemen!"
His mana-enhanced voice boomed throughout the
stadium.
"Welcome to Day 2 of the Inter-Academy Tournament!"
The crowd erupted Into thunderous cheers.
"Yesterday's first match was nothing short of thrilling
The massive mana screens immediately came alive.
Highlights from the Treasure Hunt began playing across them.
Arthur using Blink.
Victor severing the Chimera's head.
Jasmine's massive ice barrier.
Evangline firing her thermal bullets.
Rubina restoring her teammates' strength.
The crowd reacted loudly to every scene.
"And it saw Celestias Academy take a commanding lead over every other academy!"
The spectators erupted into another wave of cheers.
The announcer raised his voice.
"Let us hope today's matches will be just as exhilarating!"
The cheers slowly settled.
"But before we spin the roulette to determine the contents of the second match, let us take a look at the current points table!"
He raised one hand toward the massive holographic screen.
[MATCH 1: POINTS TABLE]
#1 CELESTIAS ACADEMY-19 POINTS
#2 BLACK STAR ACADEMY-7POINTS
#3 GLACIER PEAK ACADEMY-4 POINTS
#4 MARTIAL STAR ACADEMY-4 POINTS
#5 LUMINA ACADEMY-4 POINTS
#6 CHERRY BLOSSOM ACADEMY -4 POINTS
#7 MIRAGE CROWN ACADEMY-3 POINTS
#8 RAVEN ACADEMY-2 POINTS
#9 STORMVEIL ACADEMY-2 POINTS
#10 IRON FORTRESS ACADEMY-1 POINT
The crowd murmured as they studied the rankings.
The difference between first and second place was still enormous.
Celestias Academy stood 12 points ahead of Black Star Academy.
The first match had created a massive gap.
The announcer pointed toward the screen.
"It is clear that the other academles will need to bring their absolute best if they want to prevent Celestias Academy from Increasing their lead even further!"
The crowd erupted once again.
Then the announcer turned toward the enormous holographic roulette.
A grin appeared on his face.
"Now.."
He raised his hand.
Let the roulette spinl
The giant wheel began rotating.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
Names, symbols, and possible match types flashed across the massive screen as the roulette spun faster and faster.
The entire stadium leaned forward in anticipation.
The wheel began to słow
Tick
Tick
Tick
The final sections passed one after another.
Then-
Triing!
A sharp sound echoed through the Golden Colosseum.
The wheel stopped.
The result appeared in the center of the screen.
[MATCH 2: CLASH OF INTELLECTUALS CHALLENGE]
For a moment, the entire stadkim went silent.
Then confusion spread throughout the audience.
"What kind of match is that?"
"Clash of Intellectuals?"
"Is this going to be a magie quiz?"
"What are they supposed to do?"
The excitement only grew.
Inside Celestias Academy's meeting room, Layla sat at the head of the table.
Her eyes were fixed on the entrance.
They were sharp enough to cut through the door.
"He is late again"
Her voice was low and cold.
She glanced toward the time display on the mana screen.
"What are Alden and Dumian even doing?"
Her fingers tapped impatiently against the table.
"Did they get lost or something?"
Diana stood nearby with an instruction manual in her hands.
"Senior, the second match has been chosen."
Layla turned toward her.
Diana handed the manual over.
Layla accepted it and opened the document.
She was about to begin reading when-
Click
The meeting-room door opened.
Three boys entered.
Arthur.
Alden.
And Damian.
Layla slowly raised her head.
Her eyes Immediately locked onto the 3 of them.
Arthur looked around the room.
Then he casually asked,
"Did I miss something?"
Chapter 273: Instructions and choosing participants for the second match
The meeting room slowly fell silent after Arthur, Aiden, and Damian entered.
One by one, the students returned to their seats.
Arthur casually walked toward the head of the long table and sat down as though nothing unusual had happened.
But there was one rather noticeable problem.
A small bump had formed on his forehead.
Damlan and Aiden had similar swollen marks on their heads.
The 3 of them looked as though they had been punished by the same furious person.
Arthur rubbed his forehead and looked toward Layla with a wounded expression.
"It hurts."
Layla raised an eyebrow.
Arthur continued.
"Did you really have to resort to violence?"
Layla folded her arms.
"Then stop giving me so many headaches."
Damlan and Alden exchanged glances.
Then Damian cautiously looked toward Layla.
"Senior, why did you hit us too?"
Alden Immediately nodded.
Yeah. Kill that dumbass if you want."
He pointed toward Arthur.
"But why us?"
Layla turned her cold gaze toward the 2 of them.
"Because you didn't do your job properly."
Aiden blinked.
Layla continued.
"You were supposed to bring him here quickly."
The room fell silent.
For a brief moment, nobody reacted.
Then-
Several students burst into laughter.
Evangline laughed loudly.
Julia covered her mouth, trying to hide her amusement.
Victor's lips curved into a faint smirk.
Even Diana couldn't hide her smile.
Only Arthur, Damian, and Alden remained completely silent.
Arthur rubbed his forehead again.
Damian looked utterly humiliated.
Alden simply sighed.
Layla ignored their reactions and raised the instruction manual in her hand.
The laughter gradually died down.
"Now, pay attention."
Her eyes swept across the room.
Tim going to read the Instructions for the next match"
She paused before looking directly at Arthur.
"Especially you."
Arthur had suddenly become strangely tense.
He sat with his arms crossed, his gaze fixed on the table as though his mind was somewhere else entirely.
Layla narrowed her eyes.
Arthur finally looked toward her.
"Just start reading already
Layla clicked her tongue.
Then she opened the manual.
[ATTENTION, ALL STUDENTS!]
Are you ready to put your magical knowledge and problem-solving skills to the test?
The Clash of Intellectuals Challenge is here, and we want to see what you are made of!
Gather your brightest and most skilled teammates and prepare for 5 rounds of challenging puzzles and mysteries related to magic, spells, runes, artifacts, and magical theory.
Each round will test your intellectual abilities, magical knowledge, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Points will be awarded for correct answers and successful completion of the challenges.
[ROUND ONE: QUIZ ROUND ]
Answer a quiz question related to magic and spells.
Correct Answer: 1 Point
[ROUND TWO: RIDDLE ROUND]
Solve a riddle related to magical theory.
Correct Answer: 2 Points
[ROUND THREE: PUZZLE ROUND]
Solve a magical puzzle.
Correct Answer: 3 Points
[ROUND FOUR: TEAM CHALLENGE]
Work together to solve a complex magical challenge that will test teamwork, creativity, magical understanding, and strategy.
Successful Completion: 4 Points
[ROUND FIVE: MYSTERY ROUND]
A mysterious magical artifact will be presented.
Use your Intuition, magical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to identify its purpose.
Successful Solution: 7 Points
The team with the highest score at the end of the competition will be declared the winner of the Clash of Intellectuals Challenge.
In the event of a tie, a tiebreaker round will be held.
Teams will need to use their magical skills to solve a difficult problem within a limited amount of time.
[POINTS SYSTEM]
Quiz Round: 1 Point
Riddle Round: 2 Points
Puzzle Round: 3 Points
Team Challenge: 4 Points
Mystery Round: 7 Points
[IMPORTANT NOTES]
Each academy may send up to 5 participants.
Cheating or any form of unfair play will result in Immediate disqualification.
The use of outside materials, devices, or external communication is strictly prohibited.
Layla lowered the manual.
For several seconds, nobody spoke.
Then Liana suddenly stood from her seat.
Her purple eyes were filled with confusion.
"W-What the hell is wrong with this point system?"
Everyone turned toward her.
"Why are they giving away so many points in this match?"
She pointed toward the screen displaying the current tournament rankings.
Doesn't this completely waste the point difference we created in the first match?
Several students nodded in agreement.
They had fought desperately to secure 19 points.
Celestias Academy currently held a 12-point lead over Black Star Academy.
Yet this single intellectual match offered a total of 17 points.
If Celestias Academy performed badly, their enormous lead could disappear in an instant.
The room grew qulet.
Everyone began thinking about the strange distribution of points.
At first glance, it seemed unreasonable.
Perhaps even unfair.
Arthur glanced toward Diana.
Diana immediately understood what he meant.
She stood from her seat.
"Actually, if you pay attention to the instructions, the total number of points available in Match 2 is 17.
Her volce was calm and composed.
"That's very close to the 19 points we earned in the first match."
The students listened carefully.
"This means the lower-ranked academies have an opportunity to catch up."
Diana's expression became more serious.
"But only if we perform badly."
She tapped the manual with one finger.
"The Instructions don't mention a time limit. However, 1 belleve the tournament officials will clarify that the entire match has a time restriction."
Layla looked toward her.
Diana continued.
"Within that time, only teams that successfully complete each stage and reach the final round will have the opportunity to earn the full 17 points."
Several students began to understand.
"The point system may look unfair, Diana explained, "but not every academy will necessarily reach the final round."
She raised one finger.
"And even if several academles do reach it, the time required to complete the challenges will determine their final ranking"
Diana looked around the room.
"So, in the end, the playing field remains relatively balanced."
The students slowly nodded.
They understood the intention behind the tournament officials' decision.
The first match had tested combat ability, survival, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
The second match would test magical knowledge, intelligence, theory, creativity, and coordination.
The tournament wasn't designed to reward only raw strength.
It was designed to test different kinds of talent.
Several students clicked their tongues.
Others muttered complaints about the tournament officials.
They had hoped their massive lead would make the remainder of the tournament easier.
Instead, the organizers had made certain that no academy could become complacent.
"Alright."
Arthur's volce cut through the discussion.
"Let's stop wasting time on this pointless discussion."
He leaned back in his chair.
"We'll understand more about the point system once we actually see the match."
His eyes moved across the room.
"For now, focus on the challenge in front of us."
"Walt."
Isabella raised her hand.
Arthur looked toward her.
"What is it?"
Isabella straightened in her seat.
"What happens if more than one team completes all 5 rounds and ends with the same number of points?"
Arthur answered without hesitation.
"Their completion time will determine the ranking."
He paused.
"And If 2 teams somehow have exactly the same completion time-which is extremely unlikely-there will be a tiebreaker."
The room remained qulet as everyone listened.
"If you're wondering why first place matters," Arthur continued, "the winning team will receive bonus points, similar to the time points we earned in the previous match."
Isabella nodded slowly.
Then she looked at Arthur with genuine curiosity.
"How do you guys understand all these things so easily?"
Arthur looked at her.
"Because I'm not dumb like you."
Isabella's eye twitched.
"Do you want another beating?"
Arthur's expression remained completely calm.
Before he could respond, Layla raised her voice.
"Alright, enough."
The entire room immediately became qulet.
"Now that we understand the match, we need to decide which team will participate."
Every student in the room turned toward Arthur.
They waited.
Arthur slowly looked around the room.
Then he spoke.
"For Match 2, the participating team will be Diana, Liana, Clarice, Aegon, and Riley."
The 5 selected students immediately reacted.
Diana straightened in her chair.
Liana's eyes widened.
Clarice, a second-year student, pushed her glasses up in surprise.
She was known as one of the strongest students in the academy when it came to magical theory.
Aegon and Riley, both respected seniors, exchanged serious looks.
They had published research papers concerning ancient rune languages and magical Inscriptions. Their names were already recognized among scholars and young researchers.
Arthur had gathered Information about every one of them before making his decision.
Clarice was a brilllant magical theorist.
Aegon possessed exceptional knowledge of runic languages and ancient spell structures.
Riley had earned recognition for his research Into magical artifacts and lost civilizations.
Celestias Academy wasn't Inferior to any other academy when It came to scholars, researchers, magical theorists, or specialists.
The academy didn't only produce powerful fighters.
It produced genluses in every field.
However, among the selected 5, Diana and Liana stood out for a different reason.
Unlike the older students, neither of them possessed long lists of academic achievements,
They hadn't published famous research papers.
They hadn't received recognition from renowned scholars.
They didn't yet possess reputations within the wider magical academie community.
The seniors looked toward the 2 girls.
Liana's body stiffened.
She couldn't believe Arthur had chosen her.
Her eyes slowly turned toward him.
'Is he really going to give me a chance?"
Diana, however, smiled confidently.
"Thank you, Arthur"
Her eyes were filled with determination.
"I won't let you down."
Arthur smiled.
"Oh, don't worry about that."
His expression slowly darkened.
"If you lose, I already have appropriate punishments prepared for everyone who lets me down."
A faintly demonic smile appeared on his face.
The 5 selected students swallowed nervously.
None of them had any Intention of becoming the target of whatever punishment he had prepared.
"We definitely cannot lose.'
The 5 selected students stood.
Diana, Liana, Clarice, Aegon, and Riley then walked toward the door.
They were about to represent Celestias Academy In the
Clash of Intellectuals Challenge.
And this time, there would be no monsters to fight.
No weapons to wield.
No battlefield to conquer.
Their greatest weapons would be their knowledge, Intelligence, and ability to think under pressure.
Chapter 274: Tournament becomes Death game
The Golden Colosseum was alive with anticipation.
The second day of the Inter-Academy Tournament had already attracted an even larger audience than the first. More than 100,000 spectators filled the enormous stands, while countless others watched through live mana broadcasts from across the world.
The banners of the 10 participating academies waved proudly above the arena.
Massive holographic screens floated high above the battlefield, displaying the title of the upcoming event.
[MATCH 2: CLASH OF INTELLECTUALS CHALLENGE]
Students from every academy had gathered near the central stage.
Diana, Liana, Clarice, Aegon, and Riley stood together as Celestias Academy's chosen representatives.
The other academies had also selected their brightest students-experts in magical theory, ancient rune languages, artifacts, spells, and various forms of problem-solving.
Everything appeared perfectly normal.
The announcer stepped toward the center of the arena.
His mana-enhanced voice immediately echoed throughout the Colosseum.
"Ladies and gentlemen!"
The crowd erupted into cheers.
"It is time for the second match of the Inter-Academy Tournament!"
The applause grew even louder.
"Yesterday, we witnessed an unforgettable beginning to the competition!"
The massive screens displayed several highlights from the previous day's Treasure Hunt.
Arthur using Blink.
Victor severing the Chimera's head.
Jasmine's massive ice barrier.
Evangline firing her modified thermal bullets.
Rubina restoring her exhausted teammates.
The audience erupted every time one of the highlights appeared.
"Today, we will discover which academy possesses the greatest minds!"
The crowd roared.
Meanwhile, inside Celestias Academy's assigned meeting room, Arthur and the remaining students watched the broadcast.
A massive holographic screen displayed everything happening inside the Golden Colosseum.
Arthur stood near the window with his arms crossed.
Layla stood beside him.
Diana and the other selected students waited near the screen, their expressions focused.
For the moment, everything seemed to be proceeding
exactly as planned
Then-
A woman began walking toward the center of the Golden Colosseum.
At first, hardly anyone pald attention to her
She had long snow-white hair that flowed down her back like silk.
Her eyes were dark.
Deep.
Completely devold of emotion.
She appeared to be in her 30s and wore a formal black sult that contrasted sharply with her pale hair and akin.
A microphone rested casually in her hand.
She walked straight toward the announcer.
The announcer noticed her approaching and frowned.
The woman stopped directly in front of him.
"Your work is done here."
Her voice was calm.
Far too calm.
"I'll take over from here"
The announcer stared at her in confusion.
"Excuse me?"
The woman looked at him.
"Get lost."
The entire arena went qulet.
The announcer's face immediately turned red.
Miss, I don't know who you think you are, but you can't simply walk onto the stage and-
The woman slowly raised the microphone.
"Everyone."
Her voice echoed throughout the Golden Colosseum.
The crowd gradually fell silent.
The woman slowly looked across the enormous stands.
"Don't you think this tournament is boring?"
Confusion spread through the spectators.
She continued.
"Nothing is truly at stake."
A faint smile appeared on her face.
"Only some measly points."
The spectators exchanged confused glances.
Inside the private VIP sections, the heads of the academies and other powerful figures Immediately became alert.
The woman continued.
"That's why I'm here."
Her smile widened.
"To make things more interesting."
The temperature Inside the arena seemed to drop.
Her voice became colder.
"From now on, there is a new rule."
She paused.
"The team that does not place first..."
Her dark eyes gleamed.
...will have to sacrifice one of its members."
For several seconds, nobody reacted.
Many spectators assumed it was part of some elaborate performance.
Then the woman calmly added,
"And by sacrifice...
Her smile disappeared.
"I mean they will die."
Silence.
Absolute silence.
The words seemed to hang in the air.
For several seconds, the entire Golden Colosseum remained frozen.
Then-
Panic erupted.
"What?!"
"Is this a joke?!"
"What's going on?!"
The students standing near the stage froze in horror.
Representatives from every academy stared at the woman with pale faces.
Inside the VIP boxes, powerful figures immediately stood.
"Who is that woman?" one of the academy heads shouted.
"Call security now!"
The announcer stepped toward the woman.
His earlier confidence had disappeared.
"Miss, this isn't funny
His voice trembled despite his attempt to remain composed.
"You should leave before you get yourself into serious trouble"
The white-haired woman slowly turned toward him.
Her expression remained completely emotionless.
Then-
Flash!
The announcer's body suddenly went still.
His head separated from his body before anyone could even understand what had happened.
Thud.
His body collapsed onto the stage.
His head rolled acress the floor and cume to a stop meur the feet of several horrified tren Fertress Academy students.
Blood spread across the stage.
Screams erupted from the nearby spectaters.
The white-haired woman calmly looked down at the faillen announcer's head.
There was not even a trace of emotion in ther eyes.
She simply raised the microphone again.
"From now on..."
Her voice echoed through the terrified arena.
"The tournament is over"
She smiled.
"The Death Game begins."
BOOM!
A vast wave of golden energy exploded from the center of the arena.
It spread across the entire floating island like a massive tidal wave.
The sky darkened.
Golden light surged across every building, every pathway, every hotel, and every section of the Golden Colosseum.
Then-
A massive barrier formed around the island.
It rose Into the clouds, completely surrounding the floating island.
Beneath it, an enormous magie circle appeared.
Ancient golden runes Illuminated the entire underside of the island.
The academy heads immediately understood what they were seeing.
Spatial magic.
Extremely powerful spatial magic.
Inside Celestias Academy's meeting room, Arthur's eyes widened.
"Everyone, get out-!"
Before he could finish-
Whoosh!
Golden light engulfed the entire room.
Layla immediately reached toward Arthur.
Diana's face turned pale.
Alden grabbed his sword.
Damian turned toward the door.
Then-
Everyone disappeared.
Arthur.
Layla.
Diana.
Alden.
Damian.
Every student inside the meeting room.
Every participant from every academy.
All of them vanished in bursts of golden light.
The same phenomenon spread across the entire island.
Students disappeared from hotel rooms.
Participants vanished from preparation halls.
Academy teams disappeared from corridors.
Within seconds, not a single tournament participant remained inside the Golden Colosseum.
The arena had become completely empty.
Only the adult spectators, academy heads, noble families, guards, military personnel, and other powerful awakened Individuals remained behind.
Then-
Crack.
The ground at the center of the arena split open.
A massive blood-red crystal slowly rose from beneath the stage
It was enormous.
Almost as tall as a building.
Dark crimson light pulsed from within it like a gigantic heartbeat.
Thump
Thump
Thump
The mana radiating from the crystal was suffocating.
A powerful barrier surrounded it, and even the strongest people present could immediately sense that breaking It would not be easy.
Four figures stood around the crystal.
They wore dark clothing and carried themselves like trained killers.
Around them stood a large crowd of mysterious Individuals dressed in black robes.
Their faces were hidden.
Their weapons were concealed.
But their killing Intent was impossible to hide.
They looked less like ordinary cultists and more like a highly trained force of assassins.
Sylvia stood among the crowd of adults.
Her face had gone pale.
"What the hell is happening?"
Her voice trembled.
Where are all the children?"
Panie Immediately spread through the remaining spectators.
People began running.
Others screamed.
Some were pushed to the ground as the crowd rushed toward the exits.
But no one could escape.
The golden barrier had completely sealed the island.
Every exit was blocked.
Adrian stood beside Sylvia.
His amber eyes remained fixed on the blood-red crystal.
"Calm down."
Sylvia turned toward him.
Adrian's voice remained controlled.
"It looks like all of them were teleported somewhere."
His gaze shifted toward the white-haired woman.
"That woman is powerful."
His expression became serious.
"I could feel it."
The people around him fell silent.
"If I fought her head-on..."
Adrian narrowed his eyes.
"There is no certainty that I would win."
A stunned silence followed.
There had been very few occasions when Adrian Evan
Imperius had ever acknowledged another person's strength.
And now, in front of everyone, he had admitted that he wasn't certain he could defeat this woman.
Sylvia's eyes filled with anger.
"I don't care about that, Adrian."
Her volce rose.
"I want my children back!"
She looked around the arena.
"Do something!"
Jenos, the headmaster of Black Star Academy, stepped forward.
"We cannot rush in recklessly."
His previously tired expression had completely disappeared.
He stared at the blood-red crystal.
"They've taken the children hostage."
His eyes narrowed.
"We need to understand the spatial magic they used before making a move."
Sarah, the headmistress of Cherry Blossom Academy, looked around anxiously.
"Damn it."
Her fists clenched.
"Where the hell is Athena?"
Her gaze swept across the arena.
"When we need her most, she's nowhere to be found."
Her expression became increasingly worried.
"Spatial magic is her specialty
Joseph, the headmaster of Martial Star Academy, spoke grimly.
"No one has been able to contact Athena since yesterday.
His eyes widened slightly.
"Did they target her first?"
Adrian listened to the conversation.
After a moment, he nodded.
"It's possible"
He turned toward the gathered nobles, family heads, academy heads, military officers, and other powerful Individuals.
"Contact every loyal force you have."
His volce carried unmistakable authority.
"Your family guards. Your personal forces. Your academy security. Your military contacts."
He looked toward the golden barrier surrounding the Island.
"Surround this island."
His killing Intent slowly began spreading across the arena.
"These people aren't leaving alive if anything happens to our children."
One of the 4 people guarding the blood-red crystal suddenly stepped forward.
He had black hair, a large scar running across his face, and a cruel smile.
From now on, we're in control.
He pointed toward the adults.
"So it's best if you don't try anything stupid."
His eyes locked onto Adrian.
"Or all of your children will-*
He never finished.
Whoosh!
A blur flashed across the arena.
The man's body suddenly collapsed.
Blood covered Adrian's hand.
The remaining crystal guards froze.
Adrian stood where the man had been.
His expression was Ice-cold.
"Who do you think you are threatening?"
The 3 remaining guards Instinctively stepped backward.
"Don't come any closer!"
One of them shouted.
"Or your children will die!"
Adrian's amber eyes remained fixed on them.
"I know."
His voice was frighteningly calm.
"And that's the only reason you're still standing."
He took a step forward.
"Now tell me what you want."
Before the guards could respond, a massive holographic
screen suddenly appeared above the arena.
The white-haired woman appeared on It.
She looked down at Adrian with mild amusement.
"Oh."
Her lips curved upward.
"It seems we have a problem."
Her dark eyes narrowed.
"You could become troublesome"
She smiled.
"To kill my SS-Rank minion with one blow..."
Her gaze became colder.
"....means I'll have to do something about you."
She then looked toward the academy heads and powerful nobles.
"And the others who insist on getting in the way of my mission."
She casually flicked her fingers.
"Arial."
A dark liquid suddenly appeared in the sky.
It spread across the golden barrier like black ink.
Then-
Something descended from within it.
A small figure.
A girl.
She looked no older than 12.
She had black hair.
Dark eyes.
And a sword in her hand.
The moment she appeared, an inexplicable sense of dread spread through the Golden Colosseum.
Her mana was unnatural.
Heavy.
Violent.
Ancient.
Queen Ellana's face immediately turned pale.
"Fuck"
Everyone around her turned toward her.
Ellana's eyes remained fixed on the dark-haired girl.
"That's a Demon Lord."
The surrounding people froze.
"What?"
Eliana's volce became colder.
"The royal archives contain records."
She pointed toward the girl.
"She is definitely a Demon Lord."
Joseph stepped forward.
"I don't care."
The headmaster of Martial Star Academy summoned a massive broadsword into his hand.
"Even if she's a Demon Lord..."
His body suddenly vanished.
"All I want is my students back."
BOOM!
Joseph appeared directly in front of the girl.
His enormous broadsword tore through the air.
The strike was fast.
Powerful.
Precise.
The girl's body appeared to split apart beneath the attack.
Silence.
Ellana's eyes widened.
"He... actually killed her?"
But before the girl's body could fall-
Darkness moved.
The Demon Lord calmly caught herself.
Her body began reforming.
Flesh and darkness merged together as though her previous wound had never existed.
Her head slowly lifted.
Her eyes remalned completely empty.
Joseph's expression changed.
He suddenly looked down.
Only then did he realize something was wrong.
The Demon Lord had already drawn her sword.
He hadn't even seen her move.
A thin line appeared across Joseph's body.
His eyes widened.
He dropped to one knee.
Then-
Thud!
His body split cleanly in two.
His upper torso and lower half fell separately, crashing onto the arena floor as blood spread beneath them.
The arena fell completely silent.
The Demon Lord slowly turned toward the others.
Then her dark eyes met Adrian's amber gaze.
Adrian stepped forward.
He slowly cracked his neck.
"Let's have some fun."
A faint smile appeared on the Demon Lord's face.
At that exact moment, the black liquid covering the sky began to move.
Something massive emerged from it.
Then another.
And another.
Monstrous creatures began pouring from the darkness.
Their bodies were twisted and unnatural, covered in black flesh, claws, teeth, and countless grotesque features.
They crashed into the Golden Colosseum one after another.
BOOM!
The arena shook.
Adrian looked toward the academy heads and powerful families.
"Contact reinforcements."
He raised his weapon.
"Take care of the monsters."
His eyes became cold.
"Don't let a single one of them leave the Colosseum."
His gaze returned to the Demon Lord.
"Find Athena."
His killing intent Intensified.
"And tell her to break the spatial magic
He stepped forward.
"I'll deal with the Demon Lord."
No one argued.
The adults drew their weapons.
Mana erupted throughout the arena.
The battle for the floating island had begun.
Meanwhile...
Arthur slowly opened his eyes.
He was standing inside another arena.
For a moment, he simply stared.
It looked almost identical to the Golden Colosseum.
The same enormous stands.
The same central battlefield.
The same floating mana screens.
But something was terribly wrong.
The stands weren't filled with humans.
Demons occupled the seats.
Dark elves watched silently from the shadows.
Werewolves bared their fangs.
Vampires stared down at the arena with blood-red eyes.
And countless other creatures Arthur had never seen before filled the remaining seats.
Arthur's expression slowly became serious.
He looked toward his terrified teammates.
Then he raised his gaze toward the monstrous audience.
"System."
[Yes, Host?]
Arthur remained silent for a moment.
Then he sighed.
"Why the hell do problems keep chasing me all the time?"
The System paused.
For a few seconds, there was no response.
Then-
[Maybe you are the main character and you don't know it.]
Arthur's expression darkened.
"I don't want to be the main character, damn it"