Chapter 631

Following the subjugation of Zorro, the Lodren Empire fell into total chaos.

The initial wave of disbelief stemmed from the realization that the Hero Slayer, long presumed to have been completely neutralized, had returned to life and resumed his slaughter. The second shockwave was the exposure of the Zerdiger Elder Council, who had been secretly plotting alongside that very same Hero Slayer.

“Honestly, it’s an absolute humiliation. A stain on our lineage!”

Celia balled her hands into tight fists, her expression making it clear that her fury was far from burning out.

Observing Celia’s outburst, Chelsea, who stood beside her with arms crossed, let out a quiet sigh.

“It’s because of this mess that His Majesty the Emperor went out of his way to host an imperial celebration for the first time in ages.”

The Zerdiger family served as the foundational pillar of the Lodren Empire.

Consequently, if Zerdiger showed any signs of fracturing, the shockwaves would inevitably ripple across the entire realm.

At present, Zerdiger was fully consumed by managing the fallout of purging their own Elder Council.

Even so, the internal state of affairs wasn’t nearly as chaotic as outsiders might have expected.

While the Elder Council undoubtedly wielded massive authority within Zerdiger, the entire faction under their command hadn’t participated in this treasonous plot.

To put it accurately, the individuals who faced execution or punishment were merely the ringleaders—the key figures at the top.

“If this had spiraled into an outright civil war… I can’t even begin to imagine the horror.”

A visible shiver ran down Celia’s spine.

The entire empire could have easily been consumed by the flames of conflict.

Regardless, despite what the outside world assumed, Zerdiger’s internal structure remained perfectly secure.

The real trouble lay beyond their borders.

The scandal regarding a traitor emerging from within Zerdiger had spread across the empire like a rampant wildfire.

Zerdiger was a lineage that had functioned as both the ultimate blade and shield of the throne since the very inception of Lodren history.

Because such an inglorious disaster had occurred within such a household, the citizens of the empire were left shivering in terror and uncertainty.

The global landscape was already unstable as it was.

Whispers birthed further rumors, and left unchecked, there was a massive risk that the entire foundation of the empire would begin to crumble.

This was precisely why the Emperor of Lodren organized a grand gala—to loudly demonstrate Zerdiger’s unwavering loyalty and might before the situation could worsen.

Formal invitations had been dispatched to every aristocrat within the Lodren Empire, as well as to prominent figures among the commoners who managed massive merchant federations.

“What could you two possibly be discussing that looks so fascinating?”

Right at that moment, Shasha approached the pair, her facial expressions partially concealed behind an elegant folding fan.

With the arrival of Shasha, the official heir to the throne of the Lodren Empire, the collective attention of the room, which was already fixed on them, grew even more intense.

“Goodness me, look at those three young ladies. Absolutely exquisite.”

“They are quite literally the crowning jewels of the empire.”

“They possess such stunning beauty already; one can only imagine how breathtaking they will be once they mature a bit more.”

The direct bloodlines of Zerdiger and Rwaleen were standing together.

And alongside them was the future sovereign of the realm.

On top of that, with these three individuals—who held the absolute highest academic rankings at Lumerne—gathered in a single spot, journalists were frantically snapping photographs utilizing their magical devices.

“Come along now, give them a lovely smile and a wave.”

“What are you doing over here anyway? Your place is over where Lis and Abbad are standing!”

“Precisely. The Crown Princess ought to be mingling with the prospective heirs who will inherit the future of the empire!”

Celia and Chelsea muttered their complaints under their breath, keeping their voices low enough that only Shasha could catch their words.

In the eyes of the public, they maintained a formal dynamic of ruler and subject, but in private, they were completely relaxed companions who had shared a bond since early childhood.

“Aren’t you two being a bit cruel to your dear friend? My dear upperclassmen.”

As the focus of the surrounding crowd began to drift slightly, Shasha formed a pout.

“Putting that aside, I caught wind that Brother Lis intends to deliver a major declaration tonight. Do you know what it’s about?”

Shasha turned her gaze toward Celia, her expression filled with curiosity.

Hearing the inquiry, a hesitant look crossed Celia’s face as she answered in a hushed tone.

“Brother Lis is entering matrimony. He is marrying Senior Torua.”

“Pardon?!”

Shasha’s features froze in absolute bewilderment.

Aware that the eyes of nearby guests were instantly drawn to her sudden exclamation, she immediately forced her features back into a composed mask.

“Well, that will certainly cause the unrest to die down.”

The impending nuptials of Zerdiger’s rightful heir served as a magnificent cause for celebration throughout the realm.

This was doubly true because the bride-to-be was none other than the renowned Torua Yan.

Those who delighted in gossip and grand tales would undoubtedly spend days joyfully recounting the romance between two individuals who had walked the halls of Lumerne together as peers.

The scandal surrounding the Elder Council would surely be overshadowed by this news for the foreseeable future.

“It is truly a magnificent occasion. Magnificent indeed.”

“Quite. A grand event. Especially since I have suddenly found myself holding the title of an aunt.”

“Oh?”

Shasha’s eyes widened significantly in surprise.

“Speaking as the future Emperor of Lodren, knowing that the succession of the Zerdiger line is secure is an incredibly welcome relief. Hohoho!”

Shasha chuckled with perfect grace, shielding her mouth slightly with her fan as a mischievous glint appeared in her eyes.

“Though I must say, Brother Lis is certainly a hot-blooded man after all. I always took him for a flawless gentleman, yet he went ahead and pulled off such an astonishing feat in secret.”

“He is simply a mature adult who recognizes the importance of honoring his obligations.”

Celia ran a hand through her hair, letting out a soft, weary breath.

It happened right then.

“Look over there. It appears Sir Niel and Sir Machel have run into one another.”

Shasha caught sight of Niel and Machel, who had crossed paths right in the center of the grand ballroom.

A tense, heavy stillness settled between the two men before they simultaneously pivoted on their heels and walked away in opposite directions.

Observing the interaction, Shasha gave a small click of her tongue.

“Sir Niel and Sir Machel seem to treat each other with even greater hostility than they did in the past.”

“I can’t help but feel a bit anxious about it myself. Lately, Sister Niel has taken to staring at a photograph of Machel. And every single time I catch her doing it, she ends up tearing the image to shreds.”

“Goodness, what is that about? Is she enacting some sort of dark hex?”

Shasha’s expression turned entirely grim.

She genuinely believed that Niel and Machel, whose mutual animosity was practically legendary, were entirely capable of practicing dark magic against one another.

Listening to the exchange, Chelsea creased her lips and murmured under her breath.

“Is stir-frying up scandals the latest trend these days…?”

“Pardon? What are you implying by that?”

“Nothing of importance.”

Chelsea deflected Celia’s question with a stiff, aloof tone.

Faced with that cold response, Celia and Shasha traded confused glances.

“By the by.”

Shasha’s eyes gleamed with sudden interest as she swiftly surveyed the crowded room.

“For what reason is Senior Leo nowhere to be found?”

“Leo has his hands full with a multitude of affairs. Word has it that he might fail to show up to the celebration entirely.”

“Is that so? What a terrible pity. He is the single most discussed figure in the entire world right now.”

Shasha let out a disappointed sigh.

Yet at the very same moment, a look of profound comprehension settled over her features.

“Taking over a sovereign throne must be an incredibly taxing ordeal. I even caught wind that they intend to alter the realm’s official title?”

“That’s correct. The chosen title is Arhi.”

“Arhi… meaning ‘the dawn’ or ‘the beginning’… “

Shasha’s eyes shimmered with awe.

“Though honestly, the concept of Senior Leo ruling as a monarch strikes a bit of fear into my heart.”

“Why would that frighten you?”

When Chelsea offered her a baffled look, Shasha let out a soft giggle.

“Senior Leo possesses that incredibly famous moniker, after all.”

“Which moniker are you referring to?”

“The Demon King.”

The moment Shasha uttered those words, the expressions of both Chelsea and Celia hardened with a subtle stiffness.

It was a terrifying title he had rightfully earned due to the horrifying, overwhelming power he displayed during his second year at the academy.

As Chelsea and Celia felt a cold shiver run through them, vividly recalling the grim, unyielding demeanor Leo had possessed back then, a sudden commotion erupted near the main threshold of the grand hall, signaling Leo’s arrival.

Beholding Leo, who looked utterly striking in a pristine white tailcoat, Shasha brought her hands together and let out a soft, delighted squeal.

“Senior Leo!”

The collective gaze of every guest in the ballroom immediately locked onto Leo as he stepped inside, flanked on either side by Dave and Reina.

He stood as the youngest individual to ever command the position of Lumerne student council president, alongside being recognized as one of the most prominent legendary figures of the current era.

Furthermore, given that he had completely avoided making an appearance at any formal functions within the Lodren Empire even after being recognized as a direct descendant of Zerdiger, the public’s curiosity regarding Leo was bound to be extraordinarily intense.

Celia reached out and firmly placed her hands on the shoulders of Shasha, who seemed ready to start bouncing on her heels with excitement, and warned her.

“Control your conduct, Your Imperial Highness.”

“We cross paths with him constantly at the academy, so why must you create such a scene?”

When Chelsea added her own gentle scolding, Shasha turned an annoyed glare toward them.

“The two of you simply don’t understand because you belong to the exact same academic year as Senior Leo! Even the upperclassmen in their fourth and fifth years find it incredibly difficult to secure an audience with Senior Leo! Imagine how nearly impossible it is for mere first-years!”

At her explanation, Chelsea and Celia blinked in surprise, turning to look at one another.

“Come to think of it, Brother Leo truly keeps his distance from the other classes.”

Throughout the initial term, there had been plenty of engagement with the incoming first-years due to the established guidance program.

However, once the subsequent term commenced, any chances for the first-years to cross paths with Leo completely evaporated.

And it wasn’t just them.

Even the senior students rarely caught a glimpse of Leo.

The authority and respect that upperclassmen commanded within Lumerne was massive.

Even so, that very authority naturally lost its luster once Leo ascended to the ranks of a worldwide hero.

Among the older academic years, the sole individuals who still maintained an informal, casual relationship with Leo were Lil from the fourth year and Elena from the fifth year, both serving as the designated leads for their respective classes.

“Simply possessing the ability to share a laugh and converse casually with Senior Leo is an unimaginable honor! A massive privilege! Goodness! I am consumed by envy! Had I known things would turn out this way, I would have enrolled in the academy during the exact same year as you two!”

Witnessing Shasha’s heartfelt exasperation, Celia let out a soft breath, silently concluding that there was simply no changing her friend’s nature.

‘Now that I think about it, she was a dedicated member of Leo’s official circle of admirers.’

It was precisely while the three young women were engaged in their banter that a voice interrupted.

“So this is where you all gathered.”

Leo strolled over to their position.

“Senior Leo~”

Shasha offered a radiant beam and gave a small wave toward him.

The surrounding aristocrats were taken aback to witness the Crown Princess displaying such a genuinely uncharacteristic, joyous expression.

“Senior Leo! You absolutely must grant me the honor of a dance once the music begins!”

“If the mood strikes me.”

“Ah. That cold, aloof response. Simply mesmerizing.”

As Shasha let out a soft, swooning sigh, Celia leaned in to whisper into Chelsea’s ear.

“Is Shasha truly capable of governing this empire in the future?”

“She is exceptionally skilled at putting on a flawless, dignified act in public, so wouldn’t she manage just fine?”

Shasha, whose eyes narrowed into sharp slits as she overheard her childhood companions speaking ill of her, subtly extended her foot in an attempt to stomp on their toes.

Naturally, the two girls were far too perceptive to be caught off guard by such a clumsy trick.

While the trio of girls engaged in their silent, hidden bickering, Leo scanned the immediate area.

“Where has Abbad gone?”

“I am right here. You arrived quite late, didn’t you?”

“I was occupied with escorting my mother inside.”

“Ah.”

Abbad, who walked up with a warm smile, spoke directly to Shasha.

“Shasha. His Majesty was actively searching for your whereabouts.”

“Ugh? Why must it be at this exact moment?”

Shasha wore an expression of intense irritation.

“Senior Leo! Do not dare to forget your promise to dance with me!”

Leaving them with those words, Shasha gathered up the fabric of her formal gown and hurried away across the floor.

Once Shasha had departed, Leo scanned the immediate surroundings to ensure there were no potential spies or listeners nearby before speaking in a low tone.

“This remains unconfirmed for the time being, but.”

“Mm?”

“Beginning in our third year, Lumerne may introduce entirely new coursework and specialized assignments centering around Tartarus.”

Upon hearing his statement, the expressions of the three students instantly shifted to utter seriousness.

“What specific area should we focus our preparations on?”

“The chronicles of the legions.”

“The chronicles of the legions?”

Celia pinched her eyebrows together in confusion.

The term “legions” unmistakably pointed toward the supreme commanders of Tartarus and the massive armies that marched under their banners.

“Are you unable to provide us with a more thorough explanation?”

“Because nothing has been set in stone just yet.”

Even Leo himself possessed very limited records concerning the dark legions at this stage.

‘I will need to have a private discussion with Lian regarding this matter.’

“Utilize our private communication channels to relay this warning to the rest of the student body.”

In response to his directive, Celia gave a firm nod of assent.

“Once the third year begins, you will all be completely swamped with active deployments, meaning an incredibly grueling school term is about to unfold. Take this time to get proper rest.”

Catching Leo’s warning, Celia let out a soft, amused chuckle.

“I have already steeled myself for it.”

“I have no intention of allowing you and Kal to leave me behind in the dust. I fully intend to bridge the gap between us during this upcoming third year.”

Leo offered a small smile in response to Abbad’s declaration.

“I shall hold you to that.”

“Goodness, to think the day would come where we find ourselves desperately pursuing Kal’s shadow.”

Chelsea clutched her temples with her hands and shook her head from side to side in sheer disbelief.

It was right then, as Leo watched her antics with a trace of a smile, that the grand ballroom music began to echo through the hall.

In perfect harmony with the melody, the gathered guests began to pair up for formal dancing.

Naturally, the collective gazes of the younger Lodren nobility who were of an age with Leo began to drift expectantly toward their group.

Noticing the weight of those looks, Abbad let out a quiet chuckle, took a step forward, and offered his hand with poise.

“Would you grant me the privilege of this dance, my lady?”

Celia stared at Abbad’s open palm for a brief heartbeat, then allowed a gentle smile to grace her lips as she placed her hand in his.

“With pleasure.”

The pair glided smoothly into the center of the crowded dance floor.

As they did, murmurs of absolute shock rippled through the surrounding spectators.

It was an utterly mind-boggling spectacle to witness two individuals, whose bitter rivalry was practically common knowledge, moving together in perfect harmony.

Chelsea clicked her tongue as she observed their performance.

“That is bound to spark an entirely new wave of rumors. Huh?”

Grumbling under her breath, Chelsea’s eyes suddenly went wide as saucers as she noticed a hand extending directly into her field of vision.

“Since it appeared as though you were longing to join the dance floor.”

At his words, Chelsea, looking entirely startled like a cornered rabbit, raised her eyes to meet Leo’s gaze. A shy, gentle smile broke across her face as she reached out to accept his hand, allowing him to lead her out among the other couples.

“I have noticed this on prior occasions, but Brother Leo executes ballroom steps with incredible grace.”

“It is merely the result of rigorous training in noble deportment.”

“This goes far beyond the capabilities of someone who simply memorized basic court etiquette, doesn’t it?”

“Receiving instruction from Luna played a monumental role in perfecting it.”

“Ah.”

Chelsea nodded her head in instant understanding.

“Now that I think about it, what led to the decision to alter the historic title of Tungkun? Knowing your usual temperament, Brother Leo, I fully expected you to leave the traditional name untouched.”

When Chelsea voiced her confusion, Leo let out a low chuckle.

“It happens to be the title of our former vanguard unit.”

“Pardon?”

“The official designation for the Erebos Subjugation Squad was Arhi. It was Lysinas who originally chose that name.”

“Oh goodness.”

Chelsea gasped, completely floored by the revelation.

‘The actual title of the Erebos Subjugation Squad was Arhi?’

The specific names utilized by the factions of the Grand Heroes had always been shrouded in absolute secrecy, failing to be preserved in any historical documents down to the present day.

Having just unearthed such a monumental piece of lost history, Chelsea could not contain her profound astonishment.

As she stood there marveling over the fact that she had just been granted access to a completely hidden truth, a sudden question popped into her mind.

She fully intended to leverage this moment to satisfy a deeply personal sense of wonder.

“Tell me, did Lord Lysinas possess great skill on the dance floor?”

Leo broke into a genuine chuckle at her unexpected line of inquiry.

“No, he was quite dreadful at it.”

“My~ That is entirely contrary to what one would expect.”

“He possessed a shocking lack of coordination in that regard, despite his overwhelming physical might.”

Listening to Leo’s description, an intensely intrigued look washed over her face.

“Conversing with you like this, Brother Leo, allows me to uncover so many entirely unforeseen characteristics of the legendary Grand Heroes.”

“Is that so?”

“Indeed. I was also incredibly startled to learn that Lord Lysinas possessed a surprising talent for manipulation and misdirection. Oh, that brings something to mind.”

Chelsea smiled warmly, as though a specific memory had just resurfaced.

“A while back, during our time in Dragonia, you alongside the students from Wisdom subjected me to the effects of Nightmare, do you recall?”

“I do. You mentioned back then that you encountered an illusion of Lysinas within the dream.”

It had been Leo’s precise calculation that caused the phantom of Lysinas to manifest before her.

While the spell known as Nightmare inherently forces an individual to confront the entity they dread facing above all else, the specific nature of the phantom could easily be manipulated according to the desires of the spellcaster.

“When I boldly informed Lord Lysinas that his physical appearance was far less attractive than what was depicted in his official grand portraits, he actually displayed a subtle flash of irritation, didn’t he? Does that reflect the genuine temperament of Lord Lysinas?”

Faced with her sudden revelation, Leo turned to look at her, a question forming in his voice.

“He actually showed anger?”