Chapter 30: Tensions Rising

Chapter 30: Tensions Rising

Aetrial sat in the quiet corner of the academy library, her fingers absentmindedly flipping through a thick tome on magical theory. The day’s events lingered in her mind, particularly the professor’s observation about her magic. Does it really feel different? she wondered, biting her lip.

She knew her magic was not ordinary—after all, it wasn’t solely hers anymore. The merger of Yamauca’s soul with her own had undoubtedly altered her abilities. Yet, she couldn’t dwell on it too long without drawing suspicion. If anyone realized she wasn’t fully Aetrial Ranolf, the consequences could be disastrous.

Her musings were interrupted when Lilliana’s cheerful voice echoed across the library.

“There you are, Aetrial!”

Aetrial tensed but managed a calm expression as the blonde approached, carrying a stack of books. “Do you need something?”

Lilliana smiled, setting the books down on the table. “Not really. I just thought you might want some company.”

Why does she keep doing this? Aetrial thought with exasperation. Does she really not sense how awkward this is for me?

“Thanks, but I’m fine,” Aetrial replied, her tone polite but firm.

Lilliana didn’t seem fazed. “You were amazing during the practical lesson earlier,” she said, ignoring the subtle dismissal. “Your control is incredible!”

“It’s nothing special,” Aetrial muttered, keeping her gaze on the book.

“It is,” Lilliana insisted, leaning forward slightly. “You should give yourself more credit.”

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A Brewing Confrontation

Before Aetrial could respond, a sharp voice cut through the quiet of the library.

“Ranolf!”

Aetrial looked up to see a group of students standing at the entrance. Their expressions were cautious, but there was a glint of determination in their eyes.

“What is it?” Aetrial asked, her voice cold.

One of the students, a boy with fiery red hair, stepped forward. “We need to talk.”

“About what?”

The boy hesitated, glancing at Lilliana before continuing. “It’s about your… magic. Some of us have been wondering how you’re able to use it so well. Especially dark magic.”

Aetrial raised an eyebrow. “Is that a problem?”

“It’s not just that,” another student chimed in. “The way you cast spells—it’s too polished, too precise. It’s like you’ve been training in secret.”

Aetrial closed her book with a soft thud and leaned back in her chair. “So what if I have?”

The students exchanged uneasy glances. Lilliana frowned, her gaze darting between Aetrial and the group. “What are you trying to say?”

The red-haired boy shifted uncomfortably. “We just think it’s strange. Ranolf never showed this kind of skill before. And now, all of a sudden…”

Lilliana crossed her arms. “You’re accusing him of something, aren’t you?”

“No! We’re just—”

“Just what?” Aetrial interrupted, her voice icy. “Trying to dig up some dirt on me? Or are you simply scared because I’m better than you?”

The students recoiled at her tone, and Lilliana placed a gentle hand on Aetrial’s arm. “Aetrial, calm down.”

Aetrial sighed, forcing herself to relax. “If you have an actual accusation, say it. Otherwise, leave me alone.”

The red-haired boy opened his mouth to respond, but he was cut off by a booming voice.

“Enough!”

Everyone turned to see the professor standing in the doorway, his expression stern. “This is a library, not a place for petty arguments. If you have concerns, bring them to me privately. Now, disperse.”

The students quickly murmured apologies and left, casting wary glances at Aetrial as they went.

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Unseen Observers

Outside the library, a shadowy figure stood hidden in the nearby trees, watching the scene unfold.

“His reputation precedes him,” the figure murmured.

Cain stepped out of the shadow, his crimson eyes glowing faintly. “It’s more than just reputation,” he said. “He’s different.”

The figure nodded. “Should we continue observing him, my lord?”

Cain smirked. “For now. But soon, I’ll confront him myself. Aetrial Ranolf has more secrets than even he realizes.”

The shadow bowed and disappeared, leaving Cain alone under the fading light of the evening sun.

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End of Chapter 30