Chapter 417

Lunia, Ar, and Driana carried expressions fraught with apprehension.

The trio comprised scholars who served as representatives for the Hero Academy.

Despite only being in their second year of study, they had navigated numerous perils during their time as candidates to become heroes, sharpening their capabilities to match the weight of those trials.

Possessing highly distinctive temperaments, it was exceedingly rare for everyday occurrences to unnerve them.

Yet, standing directly before the Dragon Lord, the supreme entity ruling the world, maintaining their composure proved impossible.

Their anxiety was particularly heightened because Melina had openly designated them as the ‘heroes chosen by the era.’

Any individual carrying the title of hero is undeniably an extraordinary existence.

They are figures destined to command the periods in which they live.

It is a mantle reserved exclusively for those selected by fate itself.

Even so, among their ranks, legends who are acknowledged to have shouldered the destiny of an entire age remain remarkably few.

The ultimate benchmark for such a feat is none other than the Sword Saint.

Prior to the rise of the Sword Saint, the Conquerors of Creation—a group commanded by Melina—were viewed as the definitive figures who bore their age on their backs.

Currently, however, an entirely different matter weighed far more heavily on their minds.

“Who was the individual that the Lord was referring to just now?”

Lunia inquired, her voice taut with nervousness.

Five millennia in the past.

The Dragon Lords were the stewards who had taken up the legacy of the King of Wisdom, assuming the responsibility of identifying and elevating heroes across successive generations since the inception of the Age of Heroes.

Only a member of the dragon race possessing that level of profound insight and absolute might could ascend to the position of Dragon Lord.

Consequently, these rulers stood unchallenged as the ultimate powerhouses of any given epoch.

To discover that an entity as grand as the Dragon Lord spoke of someone else with the title ‘that person’ was nothing short of staggering.

In response to Lunia’s inquiry, Mel offered a gentle, subtle smile from beneath the fabric of her veil.

Lunia found herself further perplexed by this sophisticated, enigmatic demeanor, which made it feel as though Mel were presenting them with a riddle.

“There couldn’t possibly be an individual within Dragonia who holds a rank superior to your own, Lord-nim?”

Driana joined the questioning, her tone entirely serious.

“It appears your curiosity has been thoroughly piqued regarding that individual.”

Melina let out a soft giggle, gracefully covering her mouth.

“I believe you have not yet reached the point where it is appropriate for you to learn that person’s identity. Even so, it is an absolute certainty that they harbor immense anticipation for what you will accomplish. As do I.”

Hearing Melina’s declaration, Lunia and Driana traded uncertain glances, their features clouding with deepening bewilderment.

“As you are the very first individuals to be granted knowledge of this entity, I must ask that you maintain absolute confidentiality.”

As Melina playfully pressed a single index finger against her lips, a sudden realization washed over Lunia that she had just become privy to a monumental secret.

Right at that moment.

Ar, who had spent the duration of Melina’s explanation with her arms folded while uttering contemplative noises, abruptly snapped her eyes wide open.

With her tail sticking straight up in excitement, Ar’s eyes gleamed with intensity as she vociferously proclaimed,

“I’ve figured it out! The figure Lord-nim is speaking of has to be the Great Hero! Or maybe it’s the Hero of Creation!”

The collective attention of Melina, Lunia, and Driana immediately shifted toward Ar.

“Just think about it logically! Someone who ranks above the Lord! And they explicitly stated that they selected us! The rest of you might be in the dark, but I know for a fact that I was picked by Arion-nim. Given that, who else could it possibly be?”

Ar held her head high, letting out a self-satisfied huff.

“It makes perfect sense because Lady Luna and Lord Seirun have already manifested within this realm! There’s no other explanation!”

“What kind of ridiculous drivel are you spouting, you brainless feline?”

“There really ought to be a boundary to how foolish you can act.”

“Furthermore, what makes you think Arion-nim would ever choose you?”

“The short-tempered, pointy-eared girl speaks the truth. Didn’t Arion-nim visibly panic and bolt in the opposite direction every single time she crossed paths with you?”

“That was simply because Arion-nim happens to be incredibly bashful!”

“In what universe!”

“In any case, wasn’t the manifestation of Lady Luna and Lord Seirun in this reality an extraordinary phenomenon brought about by the Hero Record?”

“Do you honestly believe it is feasible for the Great Hero or the Hero of Creation to remain anchored in this world indefinitely? If such a thing were achievable, there would be zero incentive to keep them hidden away. Were they present among us, the conflict against Tartarus would reach an immediate conclusion!”

“Ah?!”

Ar recoiled slightly, caught off guard by the sheer rationality of the arguments presented by her two companions.

“Even when it comes to being simple-minded, there are lines that shouldn’t be crossed. Are you entirely devoid of intellect?”

“She is essentially just a creature of the wilderness, isn’t she? Aside from possessing an attractive countenance, she offers no practical utility whatsoever.”

“The two of you are going too far!”

With a fierce glare, Ar threw herself forward in an attempt to tackle them, but her companions were fully prepared to push back.

All the while, Melina watched the display with widened eyes beneath her veil, a quiet smile gracing her lips.

‘The sheer precision of her deduction is remarkable. Could this be the result of untamed animalistic instincts?’

Regardless of whether it was a lucky guess or merely the product of her chaotic thoughts, Ar’s deduction hit the mark perfectly.

Observing the three young women engaged in their chaotic bickering, Melina cleared her throat to get their attention.

The trio immediately rearranged their disheveled garments and unruly hair, snapping into a disciplined posture.

“It is truly refreshing to witness such a spirited display from you all,”

Melina remarked, offering the group a warm expression.

“Tell me, then. What path do you intend to forge as heroes?”

“My desire is to achieve absolute freedom, just like Lady Luna.”

“I wish to possess the boundless fortitude of Lord Arion!”

“My goal is to establish myself as a master artisan, treading the path laid down by Dweno-nim.”

“Are you aware of the prerequisites demanded to walk those heroic paths?”

Confronted by Melina’s inquiry, the three companions looked at one another, exchanging glances.

Ultimately, Lunia spoke up to provide an answer for the group.

“It is my conviction that we are required to inherit and preserve the legacy of the Great Heroes.”

Upon receiving that deeply earnest answer, Melina gently shut her eyes.

She drew in a prolonged, measured breath.

“Most impressive.”

To inherit and carry forward the legacy of the Great Heroes.

That phrase carried a singular, absolute implication.

The total and permanent eradication of Erebus.

An incredible objective that not a single soul throughout five thousand years of documented history had ever presumed to voice aloud.

“You are indeed proving yourselves to be the heroes handpicked by this era.”

Prompted by Melina’s words, Ar spoke up to ask,

“Does being chosen by the era imply that we are destined to carry the weight of the upcoming generation?”

“No. It signifies that you are bound to face tribulations far more brutal than merely shouldering the weight of an era.”

As Melina delivered this reality, the trio swallowed hard, a wave of tension washing over them.

“Even so… observing your resolve this day, I find that my anxieties have been put to rest.”

Melina offered a gentle smile.

“Though as things stand currently, your strength remains insufficient. You must dedicate yourselves to a level of labor far exceeding your present endeavors.”

The three young women signaled their understanding with firm nods.

These instructions were coming directly from the mouth of the Dragon Lord herself.

The assertion that they were still lacking carried immense gravity, hitting them with full force.

“I shall look forward to the moment you blossom into realized heroes. The hour when we can share the same battlefield cannot arrive soon enough.”

The moment those final words left her lips, Melina vanished from sight in a mere flash.

“What was the true meaning behind the Lord’s concluding statement?”

With Melina no longer present, Lunia began to dissect the parting words.

“To face challenges grander than sustaining an entire era. Could this imply that the Dragon Lord is actively working toward the absolute destruction of Erebus as well?”

“Does she truly evaluate our latent capabilities to be that immense?”

An intense wave of gravity settled over both Lunia and Ar.

The mere act of supporting an entire era was an overwhelming burden that normal individuals would utterly break under.

Yet Melina was setting her sights on a summit far more demanding than that.

“Driana, what are your thoughts on the matter?”

Lunia redirected the conversation toward Driana, who appeared just as deeply lost in thought.

“Mmm. I cannot help but wonder about the true extent of the Dragon Lord’s physical beauty.”

Ar blinked, staring blankly at Driana who had just uttered an entirely irrelevant thought.

“Should I strike her?”

“Allow me to deliver the first blow.”

With dark, aggressive expressions, the two simultaneously launched kicks aimed directly at Driana.

The celebratory reception drew to a close well past the midnight hour, stretching into the quiet twilight of early morning.

Following its conclusion, the visiting dignitaries were treated with the highest regard and escorted directly to their designated VIP lodging.

Meanwhile, the remaining pupils of the Hero Academy were organized into shared dormitories partitioned by their respective academic years.

An assembly of Hero Academy students on this scale was an incredibly rare event, making it the perfect opportunity to orchestrate a cross-school networking gathering.

“Wow! The rumors weren’t exaggerated at all; the second-year pupils from Lumen are actually engaging in a dormitory rivalry, aren’t they?”

“Was this an organized effort on your part?”

“Impressive display.”

The sophomore scholars from the various institutions took up quarters in the residential halls that aligned with their preferences.

Having already formed bonds during the period of Smith’s exclusive engagement, the second-year students adjusted to their new living arrangements without any hint of discomfort.

Certain individuals picked halls where their friends were staying, while others selected their residences based on the specific culture and philosophy of their home institutions.

The students from Azonia gravitated toward Glory, whereas those representing Damian chose to reside in Harmony.

Lastly, the scholars hailing from Seirun overwhelmingly converged upon Noble.

“Seeing you take up residence in Noble is quite a surprise.”

Lunia, resting with her legs crossed within the communal lounge of Noble, shifted her gaze toward Kal.

Kal, who was actively preparing and setting out hot tea, responded,

“You think it’s odd too? We are rapidly approaching the conclusion of the academic term, and yet I am still completely baffled as to why I was assigned here.”

Muttering complaints under his breath, Kal proceeded to pour the beverage.

“Regardless, the level of hospitality here is truly top-tier.”

The surrounding Seirun students expressed distinct pleasure regarding the assortment of refreshments Kal had provided for them.

Even given the late hour, the quality of the snacks and drinks was undeniably premium.

Avard, who had been monitoring the gathering in his capacity as the dormitory supervisor, intervened to clarify,

“Just so everyone is aware, this isn’t a standard amenity provided by the dormitory. This is entirely Kal’s private catering.”

“Oh, wow, we appreciate it.”

“Many thanks.”

The assembled Seirun pupils voiced their appreciation.

“Think nothing of it. Lunia, I take it you are acting as the leader for the Seirun sophomores present here?”

Kal directed the question toward Lunia with a pleasant expression, receiving a affirmative nod in return.

Kal then presented Lunia with a small, hand-sized tablet wrapped in leather.

“This is for you, Lunia El Runda-nim.”

“What’s with the sudden formal language? And what exactly am I looking at?”

“That would be your invoice.”

“……”

Lunia’s face immediately twisted into an expression of utter annoyance.

Kal raised an arm, gesturing toward a specific section of the common area.

[Kal’s Services: Payment Required]

Within the confines of Noble, Kal was taking on standard labor roles inside the residential facility.

And, naturally, his labor was strictly for-profit.

“As a side note, because we are operating in the early hours of the morning, a late-night premium fee has been applied.”

“This is nothing short of predatory marketing!”

“Hold on a minute! Predatory marketing? I literally distributed informational brochures detailing these exact policies to every single one of you the moment you crossed the threshold of this dormitory!”

Lunia flared up in anger, but Kal held his ground entirely unmoved.

The visiting scholars from Azonia and Damian, who had only been permitted into the lounge due to their existing friendships within Noble, looked on with completely dumbfounded expressions.

Simultaneously, over in the Harmony residence, Celia made her way over to where Driana was seated.

“You are Driana, correct?”

“Mmm. Judging by your appearance, you must be Celia Zeldinger.”

“You seem well-informed about me.”

“Naturally, given your widespread reputation.”

Driana gave a subtle grin as she looked up at Celia, who had taken a seat nearby.

“So, what exactly brings you over to converse with me?”

“You are an explorer originating from the realm of Dweno-nim, correct? Speaking as a knight, it is only logical for a weapon-user to harbor a deep fascination with a craftsman who has personally interacted with the divine deity of forging.”

“I do not practice blacksmithing.”

“Pardon?”

“I am a creator of fine art.”

Celia’s face contorted into an awkward expression.

Driana leaned in toward Celia, continuing,

“Tell me, would you have any interest in posing for a fine art figure study completely in the nude?”

Celia instantly resolved that it would be in her best interest to steer entirely clear of this particular dwarf moving forward.

“This happens to be Leo-nim’s personal quarters.”

Meanwhile, Eiran, who had chosen to stay in the Glory residential hall, stood inside Leo’s private chamber with an incredibly anxious demeanor.

“Are there any questionable materials hidden away in here?”

Ar narrowed her gaze, systematically inspecting every single corner and crevice of Leo’s living space.

“Q-Questionable materials?”

“Indeed, this presents an absolute golden opportunity to uncover an exploit or vulnerability regarding that black rabbit.”

Ar wore a highly scheming grin as she spoke.

At present, Leo had temporarily stepped out of the room.

As Ar continued her invasive search along the edge of the living space, she spotted a small storage cabinet built into Leo’s bookshelf that was sitting slightly unlatched, prompting her to reach out.

Eiran immediately attempted to intervene to halt her actions.

“Y-You shouldn’t be snooping through that cabinet! It is highly inappropriate to do that!”

“I am merely intending to secure the latch. Of course, there is always a chance that my fingers might slip and inadvertently swing it wide open. Well look at that, my coordination failed me.”

With a mischievous grin, Ar pulled the small door open.

Chirp-

Fiora, who had been resting comfortably inside the enclosure, let out an incredibly irritated sound and aggressively batted her wings in sheer annoyance.

Whoosh-!

“Yikes!”

Ar, receiving a direct blast of heat right to her face, collapsed onto the ground and rolled around.

Eiran scrambled over immediately to help extinguish the embers.

“What were your impressions? Now that you have encountered them face-to-face?”

Leo initiated the conversation while resting on a wooden bench situated within the communal courtyard of the residential hall.

“I have come to fully comprehend the reasoning behind Leo-nim’s selections.”

“Though it wasn’t an entirely unilateral choice on my part.”

Leo offered a quiet chuckle responding to Melina’s observation.

“That aside, I am detecting a completely distinct manifestation of strength emanating from Leo-nim compared to our previous interactions. Have you perhaps come into possession of an attribute or capability that remains unfamiliar to me?”

Melina spoke with an absolute calm.

“A manifestation of strength different from before?”

“Precisely. It was entirely imperceptible during the period I operated as Mel, but now that I am in this form, it is unmistakably present.”

While Mel was an extension of Melina, she was not identical to her true entity.

Melina’s primary physical form had never once crossed the borders of Dragonia.

The entity known as Mel was a specialized vessel constructed through high-tier sorcery.

Melina had been controlling the actions of Mel from afar while her true body remained in a state of slumber within Dragonia this entire time.

In response to Melina’s assessment, Leo raised his hand, staring down at the surface of his palm.

“I can’t say I notice anything. There hasn’t been any radical shift, has there? Are you sensing some sort of foreign energy?”

“No. It is simply that I am picking up a subtle, faint resonance of the Hero Record radiating from Leo-nim. Is it within the realm of possibility that you are carrying a remnant or portion of the Hero Record?”

“That shouldn’t be possible. Every single piece of the Hero Record I managed to collect previously was turned over directly to you.”

Leo turned his focus inward, examining his own internal state, and suddenly froze.

“This particular feeling is…”

Though incredibly masked and subtle, an undeniable, distinct energy was radiating within him.

It bore no resemblance to the distinct presence of Arion, nor did it match the magical signature of Luna.

It was completely detached from the blazing essence of Dweno, and it shared nothing with the mystic force of Lisinas.

The internal energy that Leo was suddenly recognizing within his own being was a form of power that had completely ceased to exist within the current bounds of reality.

To state it precisely, it was a manifestation of authority that had completely vanished from the world five millennia ago.

“Could this be… divine power?”