Chapter 564 - Evergreen
The car glided smoothly through the streets of Ardmont, heading toward the outskirts of the city. As the scenery shifted from the vibrant greenery and bustling crowds of the metropolis to the more open, expansive fields beyond, I settled into the quiet, letting the stillness take over.
The driver, true to his professional demeanor, didn't speak, and I didn't feel the need to break the silence. Instead, I focused on the passing landscape. The soft hum of the car's engine became background noise as I gazed out of the window, observing the transition from city to countryside.
As the car continued through the scenic roads of Ardmont, I caught sight of several people bustling around the trade centers. These buildings were sleek, and their designs were a blend of modern architecture and the earthy tones of nature.
Towering structures of glass and steel were softened by lush green terraces and walls covered in climbing plants, giving the impression that they were almost grown from the earth itself rather than built upon it.
Workers and traders moved fluidly between the buildings, their actions efficient but with a sense of ease that was rare in the more industrialized cities. Stalls and marketplaces were neatly set up alongside advanced transportation hubs, where hovering carts and drones carried supplies from one side of the centers to the other.
Despite the advanced technology, it felt like the technology served the environment, not the other way around.
'Ardmont really is something else,' I thought as I observed the fusion of human innovation and natural beauty. In Nexoria, it was all about efficiency and power, but here, it was about balance and harmony. The people seemed content, and even the trade had a rhythm to it that didn't feel rushed or pressured.
The air was cleaner, too, as if the city's layout naturally filtered out the chaos of daily life.
After about thirty minutes of this quiet drive through the countryside, the car slowed down as we approached a more secluded area. Ahead, I could see a series of high, sleek gates surrounding a large private airship port. The port itself was an impressive sight—its metallic platforms shimmered under the sun, but like everything else in Ardmont, it had a touch of nature integrated into the design.
Vines and greenery lined the walkways, and small trees stood in perfect symmetry along the entrance.
"Here."
"A minute."
The driver presented his ID to the personnel at the gate, who nodded without hesitation, allowing us to pass through. As the car rolled forward, I took a moment to absorb my surroundings. I couldn't help but feel a slight sense of amazement at the luxury of the place.
It wasn't ostentatious in the traditional sense, but there was an understated elegance to everything—the perfectly maintained grounds, the smooth operations of the airships being prepped for departure, and the personnel who moved with a quiet, professional efficiency.
Even for someone who had seen countless different scenes in the game, this level of subtle opulence caught me off guard.
'This doesn't fall short of the wealth of the Blackthorns or any other high-ranking families.'
As we came to a stop near one of the private hangars, the driver stepped out and opened the door for me. "We've arrived, Mr. Natusalune," he said, gesturing toward the entrance. I stepped out of the car, nodding to him as I took in the sight of the private airship waiting for me.
'I guess Senior Maya didn't hold back on this,' I thought, my curiosity piqued.
The airship before me was impressive, to say the least. Its sleek exterior, crafted from a shimmering alloy that reflected the sunlight in subtle hues of silver and blue, exuded both sophistication and durability.
It was enormous, though its design was refined enough to make it seem almost modest. The engines were silent, a testament to the advanced technology that powered the vessel. No loud hum or clattering of mechanical parts—just a low, constant pulse of energy.
As I neared the airship, the details of its construction became clearer. The shimmering alloy that coated its hull wasn't just for show. 'That's Mithrinium—lightweight, but incredibly strong. Resistant to most forms of magical interference.' It was rare to see a ship outfitted with it, especially for personal use. Maya certainly spared no expense.
I glanced along the sides, noting the faint outlines of hidden panels. 'Those aren't just storage compartments… reinforced plating and a concealed weapon system.' My eyes picked out a few key features. 'Mana-siphon turrets, perhaps?
Compact, but deadly in close-quarter aerial skirmishes.' They were subtle, almost unnoticeable to the untrained eye, but their positioning was strategic—no angle left undefended.
As I moved closer, I caught sight of the symbols etched subtly into the airship's hull, nearly blending with the design. 'Runic engravings… that's Aetherweave. Perfect for amplifying protective barriers and enhancing the ship's stealth capabilities.' No doubt, it allowed the airship to pass through areas undetected while ensuring its occupants remained safe from magical threats.
The engines were tucked beneath the sleek frame, almost hidden, but I recognized the faint glow of crystallized mana energy. 'Crystalis Core Engines. Silent, efficient, and able to sustain long flights without refueling. With those, this ship could cross half the continent in a single trip.'
I stepped back, taking in the full view once more. 'This isn't just for travel. It's for defense, stealth, and speed. A personal fortress in the sky.'
As I stepped onto the ramp, a butler appeared at the entrance, his posture impeccable, dressed in a uniform that exuded professionalism. He bowed slightly before speaking. "Welcome aboard, Mr. Natusalune. Lady Maya has instructed me to escort you to the main cabin. Please, follow me."
I nodded in acknowledgment, but my attention was still focused on the details around me. The interior of the airship was as impressive as the exterior—polished floors, intricate woodwork along the walls, and soft lighting that gave the space a serene ambiance. Yet, there was something else. Subtle signs that suggested the airship had seen some use, but not recently.
'The furniture, while pristine, shows slight wear in the usual spots,' I noted as I walked. The faint creases in the upholstery where someone might sit frequently, but no signs of recent occupancy. 'This airship is used, but not often. Maybe once in a while, but it's clear it's kept in excellent condition.'
The butler led me through the narrow corridors, and I took in more of the surroundings. Each room we passed was meticulously arranged, but nothing felt personal. 'It's well-maintained,' I thought, 'but there's a difference between regular cleaning and daily use.' The air was fresh, too fresh for a ship that had seen frequent travel. Maintenance was routine, but not much more than that.
As we approached the main cabin, I glanced at the subtle details—art pieces carefully selected to reflect a refined taste, minimalist yet elegant. 'This is definitely Maya's ship. It has her touch all over it. Reserved, understated, and refined. And considering she's been at the academy for over a year and a half, it makes sense why this airship hasn't been used much recently.'
The butler stopped in front of a large, polished door and opened it, revealing the main cabin. "Please, make yourself comfortable," he said, gesturing toward the seating area.
I stepped into the seating area, immediately noticing the soft, plush chairs arranged around a low table. The upholstery was crafted from high-end materials, blending comfort with elegance. Each piece of furniture was carefully placed, giving the space an air of intimacy while still maintaining the feel of a luxury airship.
The room itself was quiet, save for the faint hum of the ship's systems, and the lighting was soft, casting a warm glow across the cabin.
"Mr. Natusalune," the butler spoke again, his tone polite, "the airship will board shortly. If you have any questions or require anything during the flight, please don't hesitate to ask."
I glanced toward the butler, considering for a moment. "How long will the ride take?"
"It will be approximately one hour, sir," he replied smoothly, folding his hands in front of him. "Lady Maya has arranged everything to ensure a comfortable journey."
I nodded, acknowledging the information. "Thank you. That will be all for now."
The butler gave a small bow before excusing himself from the room, leaving me alone in the quiet, luxurious cabin. I leaned back into one of the chairs, the softness immediately providing comfort.
Moments later, I felt the subtle shift beneath my feet as the airship began its ascent. The smoothness of the takeoff was barely noticeable, save for the faint change in pressure.
As the airship leveled off, it didn't ascend too high, keeping a close connection to the landscape below. I moved closer to one of the large windows, my eyes drawn to the changing view. The city of Ardmont grew smaller with each passing moment, the towering buildings and streets gradually fading into the distance.
But as we rose higher, the full scope of the land surrounding the city became more visible, stretching far beyond what most would be able to perceive.
'A perk of the eyes,' I thought as my vision adjusted, focusing on the details far below. Even from this height, I could make out the sprawling agricultural lands that extended in all directions, a vast tapestry of fields and crops spread across the region.
It was impressive—countless fields, all tended by various machines and workers who moved with purpose, their actions synchronized in a strange harmony with the land itself.
The more I looked, the more details revealed themselves. I could see how magic was woven into the very fabric of the land. Massive formations, faintly glowing with a soft energy, were scattered across the fields, clearly designed to regulate the weather and soil conditions. 'So that's how they maintain consistency,' I mused, noting the subtle shifts in the air and the flow of mana.
Some areas had a light drizzle, while others basked in warm sunlight—all directed by the formations that controlled each zone's environment to optimize the crops.
Machinery of all kinds moved efficiently between the fields—hovering drones inspecting crops, large automated plows tilling the earth, and irrigation systems that distributed water with precision. Yet, it wasn't just machines at work. I could see workers, both human and otherwise, moving across the land.
They were spaced far apart, yet each group seemed to know exactly what needed to be done, their coordination a testament to the careful balance that defined this region.
'The integration of magic here is far beyond what I've seen in most human lands,' I noted. In other places, magic was often treated as an afterthought or luxury, but here it was a foundational tool used to enhance every aspect of life. Agriculture, technology, and mana flowed seamlessly together, allowing for a level of efficiency that was rare to find.
Forests bordered the farmlands, thick with trees that seemed untouched by the hand of industry. Even here, I could see formations keeping the natural balance in check, ensuring the forest remained healthy.
The combination of technology and nature, so perfectly in sync, was fascinating. It was clear that Ardmont, despite its agricultural focus, had a deep understanding of how to use mana to benefit both the land and the people.
'So different from the usual human lands,' I thought, the contrast between what I saw here and what I had known elsewhere striking me.
The airship continued its smooth journey, and I stayed by the window, observing the intricate workings of the land below. It was as if the entire region was alive with a rhythm dictated by both magic and nature, a balance that most places could only dream of achieving.
'A world within itself,' I mused, letting the thought linger as the airship glided effortlessly above the vast, enchanted fields.
Exactly 57 minutes later, as I continued to observe the landscape below, something caught my eye.
'The mana….'
It changed.
Chapter 565 - Evergreen (2)
Mana.
When we think about what mana is, most people tend to imagine it as just another resource—something to be harnessed, controlled, and expanded. But in truth, mana is much more than that. It's not just the lifeblood of magic, but the essence of the world itself. It flows through everything—living beings, the land, the air.
Every part of the environment is a reflection of the mana coursing through it, and how that mana interacts with the world tells you more than just its surface appearance.
Mana isn't simply raw energy; it's a language. One that, if you understand it, reveals far more than what the naked eye can perceive. When mana is abundant, the land flourishes, teeming with life. When it's disrupted or drained, everything suffers—the soil dries, plants wither, and even the air grows heavy with stagnation.
It's everywhere, integrated into every aspect of existence. In the way crops grow, how the wind shifts, and even how people interact with their surroundings. By reading the mana in an environment, you can infer the health of the land and the stability of the climate or even detect hidden threats before they become visible.
And with the right eyes, like mine, that's exactly what I can do. My vision doesn't just let me see farther—it lets me read the currents of mana, like tracing the flow of a river.
I've done it more times than I can count. In battle, it's second nature to scan for disruptions in mana flow, giving me an edge. In unfamiliar environments, I use it to understand the balance of the land.
And now.
Mana is, in many ways, like electromagnetic waves. It has properties—frequency, intensity, and flow—that can be read, analyzed, and understood by those attuned to it. And just like waves, mana interacts with everything in its path, influencing the environment, living beings, and even objects.
By analyzing those properties, you can learn not just about the surface level of things but the deeper truths that lie beneath.
That's what I've been doing all this time, unconsciously. Reading the shifts in mana around me, letting it inform my understanding of the world. Whether in battle or in unfamiliar environments, it's become second nature to perceive mana and break it down in my mind. A constant stream of information flowing through my senses.
'This place is different.'
In front of me, the special properties of mana were different.
The mana here wasn't following the same rules. It felt heavier, denser. From my eyes, I could see it—an intricate weave of energy swirling beneath the surface, not chaotic, but tightly controlled in its own way.
As I focused, I began dismantling the mana in my head, breaking it down piece by piece. The flow, the intensity—it was far richer than anything I had encountered thus far on this journey. The patterns it formed were unfamiliar, almost foreign. It wasn't just that there was more mana here; it was the way it behaved, the way it interacted with the environment.
'This is…' I let the thought hang as I visualized it. In my mind's eye, the mana took shape, forming an intricate network of currents and streams, each one more vibrant than the last. It was like a living organism, pulsing and breathing with its own rhythm.
And then I saw it. A barrier.
It wasn't visible to the naked eye, but my senses picked it up clearly. The mana shifted abruptly as if I had just crossed an invisible threshold. 'A sphere,' I thought, watching as the energy curved around the land in a protective dome, enveloping the entire region in its embrace.
It wasn't just a barrier in the traditional sense, though. It wasn't designed to keep things out—it was more like a self-contained ecosystem, preserving the natural balance within. The mana inside the barrier was of a different quality entirely, almost as if it had been purified, refined by some 'ancient' process.
Indeed, it felt ancient.
Most of the time, mana felt like a living thing, still actively integrating itself into the environment, shaping and influencing the world ever since the day of Nexus Convergence 500 years ago. That event changed everything, flooding the world with mana and starting a process that is still ongoing to this day.
But here, the mana felt… complete.
'Contrary to how it is with the rest of the world where mana continues to integrate itself with the environment, this place… it's as if mana has already become one with the land,' I thought, my mind working to break down the significance of what I was sensing.
Mana, in most places, still carried the raw, untamed energy of its arrival. It was vibrant but incomplete, as if it was still learning to settle into its new home, altering ecosystems and human structures alike. But here, the mana wasn't raw—it was refined, natural in a way that felt… ancient.
It had already reached full integration, as if it had been part of this place for far longer than the 500 years the rest of the world had experienced.
This couldn't be a coincidence. The difference wasn't just in the mana—it was in how the environment interacted with it. The land wasn't merely affected by mana; it was shaped by it, as though the two were symbiotic. And then it struck me.
Senior Maya.
Her talents, her abilities—they were too extraordinary to be mere coincidence. I had always sensed there was something more to her, something beyond the training and experience we all had at the academy. But now, seeing this place, I had no doubt. This level of mana refinement wasn't normal, not in the slightest.
'Indeed.'
It was really intriguing.
The fact that there were many things that I still didn't know even if I had completely played the game.
Just as my thoughts continued to spiral deeper into the realization of how little I still knew, despite having played through the game entirely, there was a knock at the door. The sound was polite yet firm, pulling me back into the present moment. The door opened, and the butler stepped inside, bowing slightly before speaking.
"I hope the ride has been comfortable, Mr. Natusalune," he said, his tone respectful and calm. "We have just arrived at our destination."
I nodded in acknowledgment, the weight of my earlier thoughts still lingering in the back of my mind. I stood from the comfortable seat and moved toward the window, curious to see where we were about to land.
The scene that greeted me was nothing short of impressive. Outside, nestled between thick forests and towering trees, stood a massive mansion. It was elegant and grand and radiated an air of quiet authority. The structure seemed perfectly integrated with the surrounding nature, almost as if the land had shaped itself to accommodate the mansion's presence rather than the other way around.
The butler cleared his throat softly, drawing my attention away from the window. "We will be landing shortly, Mr. Natusalune," he informed me with the same composed tone. "If there is anything else you require, please do not hesitate to ask." He bowed again before excusing himself, leaving me alone once more with my thoughts.
I returned my gaze to the mansion and the surrounding forest, the weight of the place settling over me. Everything about it was designed with precision and care, from the trees lining the estate to the way the structure harmonized with the environment. It was a seamless blend of power and nature.
Moments later, the airship began to slow, gently adjusting its course as it prepared to land. I could feel the smooth alignment as the ship descended gracefully toward a special hangar just beyond the mansion. The hangar was well-concealed, but its design was unmistakably for personal use.
It was clear that this landing site had been built with the airship in mind, reserved for its frequent—though not recent—visits.
The ship touched down with hardly a sound, the engines powering down with the same quiet efficiency that had carried us through the journey. The hangar itself was sleek, built into the landscape to avoid disturbing the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The moment the door to the airship opened, a rush of mana flooded my senses, assaulting me with an intensity I hadn't anticipated. It wasn't just the air that was different—it was as if the very pressure of the atmosphere had shifted.
'Ooof….'
My head spun for a brief moment, the weight of the refined, ancient mana nearly overwhelming. But within seconds, I regained control, steadying myself as I took a slow breath.
"Haaah…."
The air outside was cool, carrying with it the scent of nature—fresh, earthy, and untouched by the industrial rhythms of the world. It was a refreshing change from the more structured environment I'd just left behind. A gentle breeze drifted in, wrapping around me like a soft embrace. But amidst the natural smells, one distinct fragrance stood out. Familiar. Inviting.
It was subtle at first, but as I focused, the scent became unmistakable—a fragrance I had come to associate with a certain someone. Natural, delicate, and distinctly her.
I raised my head, and there she stood.
Senior Maya.
Her purple hair cascaded effortlessly down to her waist, glimmering in the light as if it had been spun from silk. Her blue eyes, sharp yet soft, were locked onto mine, radiating a quiet strength that only she could possess.
"Junior," her voice came, calm and warm, carrying an undercurrent of familiarity that immediately grounded me in the moment.
In the blink of an eye, she was before me, her presence commanding yet serene.
Maya stood before me, just as I had always seen her—serene, kind, and radiating a purity that seemed almost at odds with the power she carried. Despite the subtle shift in the air around her, she remained composed, her gaze never wavering as she took me in.
"Senior," I replied, my voice calm but watchful. I took a moment to observe her more closely. At first glance, she seemed the same—lively, her complexion bright and full of life. But there was something else, something faint yet undeniable. A red glint in her eyes, subtle but present, hinted at a tension she was holding back.
It wasn't just the usual calmness she exuded; this time, it felt like she was keeping herself in check.
I noticed the faint blush on her cheeks and how she briefly wet her lips with nothing but saliva. The small gestures, though seemingly insignificant, told me enough.
'She is trying to suppress herself.'
She was trying to suppress her vampiric urges—urges that had clearly grown stronger.
Chapter 566 - Evergreen (3)
In the dimly lit room, soft candlelight flickered along the walls, casting gentle shadows over the intricate engravings and elegant décor that adorned the space. Maya sat cross-legged on a plush mat in the center of her room, her posture serene and composed. Her eyes were closed, and her hands rested lightly on her knees, fingers curled inward in a meditative pose.
For most of the Awakened, meditation might not be a necessity, but for someone like Maya, a mage who cultivated her mind and needed balance over her abilities, it was crucial. The very act of centering her mind allowed her to control the natural energies around her and, more importantly, to keep her vampiric urges at bay.
As she inhaled deeply, drawing in the ambient mana around her, her body seemed to still further, her presence becoming attuned to the room's energies. The forest-like engravings on the walls almost shimmered in response, as if acknowledging her connection to the natural world.
'Focus,' she told herself. The more she could align her mind with the peaceful flow of mana, the more she could stave off the dangerous pull of her vampiric nature. The hunger had been building steadily, especially as she pushed herself to rely less and less on the blood bags. It was a conscious choice, an effort to maintain her humanity without succumbing too deeply to her vampiric cravings.
But it wasn't easy.
Even now, as she breathed slowly, she could feel the stirrings of that dark part of her—the part that craved blood, that wanted to overwhelm her with the pure, animalistic need for sustenance. She gritted her teeth for a moment, feeling the fangs in her mouth slightly extend before she caught herself.
'Not now,' she thought, calming her inner turmoil.
The mana flowed more freely now, soothing her mind and quieting the relentless pull of her vampiric urges. In moments like these, it was as if two parts of her were constantly at war—the refined, controlled mage who sought balance and the primal, bloodthirsty predator that her vampiric nature threatened to unleash.
Her breath steadied as she slowly found a rhythm, each inhalation drawing in calming energy, each exhalation pushing out the remnants of her hunger. The deeper she meditated, the more control she regained. For Maya, this balance was everything—without it, she risked losing herself.
'I'm not a slave to it. I control it.'
She repeated this mantra in her mind, letting the words become part of the flow of energy, strengthening her resolve. Slowly, the hunger receded to the edges of her consciousness, like a distant echo.
The gentle flow of mana did its part, calming her immediate urges, but it couldn't quell the deeper, more insidious feeling that had been gnawing at her for weeks now: loneliness.
The mansion was vast, grand, and filled with loyal staff ready to attend to her every need. Yet, despite their constant presence, Maya felt a profound emptiness.
The academy had offered distractions, challenges, and—most importantly—a connection to others, particularly to Astron. But now, with the semester paused and the academy life distant, time had become her biggest enemy.
'Time…' she thought, her eyelids fluttering as she took another measured breath. It was time that stretched on endlessly now, leaving her in this limbo between moments of fleeting control and the overwhelming hunger that lurked beneath the surface. She repeated the mantra again, but this time, it felt hollow, more out of habit than conviction.
'I'm not a slave to it. I control it.'
She opened her eyes slowly, staring at the delicate patterns of light filtering through the curtains.
KNOCK!
The soft knock at the door echoed through the stillness of the room. Maya, having already sensed Alfred's approach, exhaled slowly, her breath mingling with the fading remnants of her mantra. "Enter," she said, her voice calm but laced with anticipation.
Alfred stepped in quietly, his ever-present composure intact. His eyes briefly scanned the room before settling on Maya, who had just begun to rise from her meditative pose. "My Lady," he began with his usual formality, "I apologize for interrupting your session, but I thought it best to inform you that the airship will be arriving in just a few minutes."
Maya's eyes sparkled, her heart quickening with excitement.
'Finally.'
The thought filled her with a surge of warmth, banishing the hollow feeling that had plagued her for days. She had arranged everything perfectly—her airship sent to collect him, the preparation of the estate. And now, after waiting and preparing, the moment was near.
"Thank you, Alfred," she replied, standing gracefully from her position. Her tone was calm, but the subtle joy in her expression betrayed her emotions. "I'm going to welcome him."
Alfred bowed slightly, acknowledging her decision. "Very well, My Lady. Shall I accompany you?"
Maya smiled at her loyal butler, her expression soft. "No need. I'll greet him alone. You've already done more than enough."
"As you wish," Alfred replied, bowing deeper this time as Maya moved past him with purpose, her footsteps light but filled with intent.
As Maya moved through the halls of the mansion, her steps were light but filled with anticipation. The elegant interior of the estate passed by in a blur, her focus solely on the moment she would see him again. Each step felt like it was carrying her closer to something she had long been waiting for.
The grand entrance of the mansion loomed ahead, and beyond that, the airship was just beginning to descend, its sleek form casting a shadow over the landing platform.
As the airship gracefully touched down, Maya's gaze was fixed on its descending form. She had been waiting for this moment, her heart quickening as she sensed the familiar mana signature. Though her face remained composed, inside, she was brimming with anticipation.
The forest around her whispered with life, its energy blending with the natural mana that permeated the estate. But today, none of that mattered—her focus was solely on him.
HISS!
The doors to the airship opened with a soft hiss, and there he was—Astron. He emerged from the ship, his form silhouetted against the interior light for a brief moment before stepping into the open air. His presence, calm and collected, seemed to fill the space.
The breeze carried a subtle mix of scents, the fragrance of nature and the earth mingling with the unique, familiar scent that Maya had come to associate with him. She breathed it in deeply, savoring the moment as she watched him take in his surroundings.
'He's here.'
"Junior," she greeted, her voice soft but carrying with it a warmth that was reserved only for him. She kept her tone calm and collected, though her heart beat faster with every second he stood before her.
Maya took a step forward, her movements as graceful as ever, closing the distance between them effortlessly. Her purple hair, catching the light, shimmered as she moved, and her pink eyes locked onto his—eyes that usually held so much power, but now, they were focused only on him.
And the moment she stepped closer to Astron, the familiar, intoxicating scent of his blood reached her senses. Her breath hitched, and for a brief moment, her vision swam in crimson. The world around her—the grand estate, the soft breeze, the natural energy flowing from the forest—blurred into the background as her instincts sharpened on him.
His presence, his scent, and the sight of his neck, where his skin was exposed just enough under his neatly arranged clothes, sent her urges spiraling.
He looked healthier than she remembered, his body having grown stronger since their last meeting. The subtle shift in his demeanor, his sharpened focus, and the sheer vitality emanating from him seemed to amplify the temptation. The veins in his neck, pulsing with life, drew her in like a magnet.
'No…' she thought, her heart pounding. The hunger gnawed at her, more powerful than ever before. It was as if her body craved what it knew it could have, what it had tasted before. But this time, she had promised herself she wouldn't give in.
Her fangs itched, extending slightly before she caught herself. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she fought against the primal desire that threatened to overwhelm her. For weeks, she had trained, practiced, and meditated, all in the hopes of gaining control over this part of herself. She didn't want to be a burden to him. She didn't want to be the one always taking from him.
'He's been through enough,' she reminded herself, forcing her eyes away from his neck and meeting his gaze instead. His calm expression showed no sign that he was aware of the inner battle raging inside her, but she couldn't let herself slip. Not now. Not in front of him.
With a deep breath, she centered herself, repeating the mantras she had used during her meditation. 'Control it. You are not a slave to this.' Her vision slowly cleared, the crimson receding, but the ache remained, buried beneath layers of discipline she had painstakingly built.
She smiled, though it was strained, and spoke again, her voice steady but carrying the weight of her struggle. "I hope the journey wasn't too tiring for you, Junior."
Astron nodded, his eyes scanning the estate briefly before settling back on her. "It was fine, Senior," he replied, his tone neutral, though there was a warmth in his gaze that grounded her.
Maya forced herself to relax, letting go of the tension in her body. "Good," she said softly. "Everything is ready. Shall we go inside?"
As they began to walk toward the mansion, Maya remained hyper-aware of the distance between them. Her instincts were still on high alert, but she had made a decision—a promise to herself. She would not let her desires control her, not now.
At the very least, Maya wanted to show him that she was not a parasite that needed to be looked after, as if she were a fragile thing. She had always prided herself on being strong, on being someone who could carry her own weight, and now, more than ever, she wanted to prove that to Astron.
'I'm not a burden. I'm not just someone who takes.'
With every step toward the mansion, she reaffirmed that thought. She had spent countless hours training, meditating, and suppressing her vampiric urges to gain control, not just for her own sake but for his as well. She wanted to be someone who could stand beside him, not just someone who relied on him.
As they walked, the natural energy of the estate seemed to hum around them, and the mansion loomed larger with every step. Despite her internal struggle, Maya carried herself with grace, her movements fluid and confident. She had mastered the art of maintaining her composure even when turmoil brewed beneath the surface.
"Thank you for having me here, Senior."
And well, this felt kind of like a reward as well.
Chapter 567 - Evergreen (4)
As we walked toward the mansion, the closer I got, the larger it appeared. From a distance, it had already seemed grand, but now, up close, it felt even more imposing. Its sheer size was impressive, but it wasn't just the scale that caught my attention. There was something about the architecture, the way it blended into the landscape while still standing out with an almost regal presence.
I found myself observing the details more carefully, letting my eyes take in the craftsmanship. The stone walls were smooth, polished, and adorned with intricate carvings and symbols. There was a subtle elegance to the design—delicate embroideries and patterns that wove their way along the edges of the mansion, almost hidden unless you were looking closely.
These details weren't ostentatious, but they carried meaning, something beyond mere decoration.
'The style is distinct,' I thought, my curiosity piqued. I wasn't particularly interested in art or architecture, but I was observant by nature. Having been to many different locations, I'd developed a habit of paying attention to the surroundings. And here, I could tell there was something unique about this place.
The design didn't follow the typical patterns I had seen in other estates. The angles, the lines—it all felt purposeful like it had been built with more than just aesthetics in mind. There was a subtle flow to the way the mansion was constructed, almost as if the building itself was part of the land's mana rather than something that had been forced upon it.
As we walked, I found myself tracing the lines of the carvings with my eyes. There were ancient symbols woven into the stone, not obvious, but present enough to catch the attention of someone who knew how to look. They weren't just decorative—they meant something, though I couldn't quite place what.
'This is relatively similar to how things were in the Organization's base, but not exactly the same.'
I thought as I continued to observe the mansion's intricate design. The carvings, the symbols, the subtle integration of mana into the structure—there was an air of something ancient here, something that ran deeper than the surface.
The organization had roots stretching back centuries, filled with ancient knowledge and mysteries. Their base had always carried that weight, a sense of history and hidden power lingering in every corner. But this place, while not identical, had a similar feeling—a connection to something older than what most people could perceive.
"Your home…..It is impressive."
I decided to test the waters. One way or another, I would learn about this more.
'And looking at her like that, I am sure if I just ask, she will reveal things.'
Senior Maya might be someone who knows how to carry herself, but at the same time, she relies on me a lot.
Though I do not want to take advantage of her like that, if there are things that are important to this world that I need to know about, it can't be helped.
Maya turned her head, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Her pink eyes, though still carrying that subtle tension, softened as she regarded me. "I expected you'd notice," she said, her voice warm but knowing. "It's part of why I wanted you to come here."
I raised an eyebrow, curious. "Oh? And what exactly did you expect me to see?"
Her smile deepened, and she paused for a moment before responding. "Why do you think it's impressive, Junior?"
I took a breath, knowing that this was my opportunity to explain what I had observed. "For one, the architecture," I began, gesturing to the carvings and symbols embedded in the stone walls. "It's not just decorative. The structure itself is deeply integrated with the land's mana. It feels as if the building is part of the environment rather than imposed upon it. That's rare."
Maya's eyes flickered with something—interest, perhaps, or recognition. She stayed quiet, allowing me to continue.
"The carvings," I went on, tracing the lines with my eyes again. "They're ancient not just in age, but in purpose. They serve a function beyond aesthetics, though I'm not entirely sure what yet. And the flow of mana… It's more refined here. It's not like the mana in most places, which is still in the process of integrating with the world. Here, it feels… complete."
Maya's smile didn't fade, but I noticed a shift in her posture. She was listening carefully now, her focus entirely on me.
"And then there's the connection to the land," I added. "It's subtle, but the entire estate seems to be in harmony with the natural world. It reminds me of the organization's base, though this is different in some ways. The patterns and the flow of mana all make it feel like it's been here for much longer than the world has had mana, to begin with."
Maya's smile deepened as she met my gaze, her pink eyes shimmering with an almost playful glint. "Just as I expected," she said softly, her voice carrying a warmth that felt almost too natural. "You're quite talented when it comes to sensing mana and understanding its flow. More so than most."
I wasn't surprised by her praise. After all, Maya had been the first person to teach me how to sense mana and control it. My awareness of its presence and how to navigate it in battle or the environment came directly from her. Still, there was something about the way she spoke now, a subtle pride in her tone, as if she had known I would notice these things.
She took a step closer, her smile never fading. "Go on, Junior. Aside from the mana flow, what else have you observed?"
I paused for a moment, gathering my thoughts before continuing. "The architecture," I began, gesturing toward the carvings and the overall design of the mansion. "It feels ancient, but it's not something I've seen widely among humans. The patterns, the symbols—this style belongs to something older, something outside the typical history books.
It's as if this place is part of a different lineage entirely, one that hasn't been touched by modern human influence."
Maya's eyes didn't waver, but I could tell she was pleased with the direction of my thoughts. She didn't interrupt, letting me continue.
"Even the aesthetic," I added, "it's distinct. I've been to many cities and seen a variety of architectural styles, but nothing quite like this. Take Western Uxbridge, for example." I glanced at her, reminding her of the city we had visited together not long ago. "That city had a traditional human aesthetic, rigid and functional.
The buildings were designed to serve a purpose, but there was little connection to the mana in the land. Here, it's the opposite. This estate isn't just built on the land; it's built with it."
I paused, reflecting on the fundamental differences. "Like how Uxbridge was built with an emphasis on control and expansion. Everything about it was designed to dominate the environment. But here… everything flows in harmony. It's as if the estate was meant to be a part of this place, not an imposition."
Maya tilted her head slightly, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. "I hadn't considered it from that perspective before," she admitted, her voice calm and contemplative. "But hearing it like this… it makes sense. It's interesting, actually."
She didn't elaborate further.
The silence between us was comfortable as we continued walking through the estate, the air filled with the soft rustle of leaves and the subtle hum of mana flowing through the environment.
Soon, we reached the inner garden of the mansion. The place was lush, filled with an array of plants, some of which I had never seen before. The garden was beautiful, vibrant with life, and yet it didn't feel overly manicured. Like the mansion itself, it seemed as if the plants had been allowed to grow in harmony with the mana of the land, rather than being forced into specific shapes or patterns.
Maya gestured toward a gazebo at the center of the garden, its elegant structure surrounded by tall flowers and leafy vines. Without a word, she led me toward it, and we walked silently, the quiet only broken by the occasional chirp of a bird or the gentle breeze that swept through the area.
As we neared the gazebo, a man suddenly appeared, stepping out from the shadows so quietly that I almost didn't notice him until he was fully in view.
–FLINCH!
'This…..'
He was a butler, though something about him immediately caught my attention.
As the man stood before me, I couldn't help but let my gaze sweep over him, picking apart every detail. The first thing I noticed was his uniform—immaculate, as if it had just come from the tailor. Not a single wrinkle or thread out of place. Too neat. Too perfect.
'He's meticulous, almost obsessively so. No ordinary servant would care this much about appearances unless it was part of their discipline.'
His posture was another giveaway. Straight, shoulders back, but not stiff. There was an ease in how he held himself, the kind that came from long years of training.
'Perfectly balanced... not just for appearances. This man knows how to move silently, without drawing attention. Presence erasing. A hidden aide, perhaps?'
My eyes moved to his hands—clean, unnaturally so, with no roughness or scars. No calluses on the palms or fingers.
'Not a fighter. At least, not with weapons. A mage, then. His hands are too pristine for someone who has ever swung a sword or handled a bow. Magic leaves no visible marks. Smart… keeps himself unassuming.'
The sharpness in his eyes, though, was unmistakable. They flicked over me, quick but controlled, as if measuring me up. The subtle tension in his jaw betrayed his awareness, his readiness.
'This man is no mere butler. He's trained. Disciplined. Everything about him speaks of precision, from his appearance to his demeanor. Combat-ready but not through physical force. That focus… his diet is balanced, his physique lean but powerful, tuned for endurance, not bulk.'
A breeze ruffled the leaves overhead, and I noticed he didn't so much as flinch. He stood rooted, unwavering, yet somehow almost invisible, blending into the serene environment of the garden.
'He's skilled in blending with his surroundings. No wasted movement, no unnecessary action. This is someone who knows how to stay hidden, even in plain sight. A perfect shadow, prepared to strike if necessary.'
I looked into his eyes again, and for the briefest moment, I saw something—a flicker of calculation.
'He's watching me just as much as I'm watching him. Calculating. Gauging if I'm a threat. Every breath, every subtle shift, he's analyzing.'
As I continued to observe the butler, a faint sense of tension settled between us. His posture, his sharp gaze—everything about him exuded an air of quiet intimidation. It wasn't overt, not enough to be obvious, but it was there. I could feel the subtle pressure, the way his eyes flicked over me, calculating. Testing.
'So that's how it is,' I thought, a small part of me amused by the situation. The man wasn't just analyzing me—he was pushing back, trying to gauge how I would react. His ability to slip past my senses earlier wasn't just skill; it was a clear indicator of the gap between us. The fact that I hadn't noticed him right away meant that this man's stats were far beyond mine.
And considering how attuned I was to mana and my surroundings, that wasn't a small feat.
But I wasn't surprised. High-ranking families often had people like this—hidden aides, skilled in combat or magic, trained to be both servants and protectors. It was normal. What caught my attention, though, was the faint feeling of hostility. It wasn't personal, but there was an undercurrent of disapproval in the way he regarded me. As if he didn't entirely favor my presence here.
'He's strong, but intimidation won't work on me,' I thought, keeping my expression neutral. This was a test. A way to see how I would respond. And I wasn't about to give him anything to work with. I simply continued observing him, noting his stance, his presence, the way he controlled his breathing. He was sharp, no doubt, but I had seen enough to know when to stay silent.
After a few moments, the silence between us was broken by a familiar voice.
"Alfred," Maya called softly.
The butler—Alfred—immediately turned toward her, his demeanor shifting in an instant. The tension that had lingered in the air dissipated as he bowed slightly in acknowledgment, his face becoming a mask of perfect professionalism once again.
It was clear who held the power here. And with just one word from Maya, the subtle contest between Alfred and me came to an abrupt end.