Chapter 674 - Really
With their exchange winding down, Irina cast a quick glance at Esme, who had been silently observing from a distance. As she'd anticipated, Esme's expression betrayed a hint of disapproval, her usual calm demeanor tinged with something sharper. The display between her and Astron had evidently struck a nerve, though Irina felt little concern. 'We didn't do anything wrong,' she thought with a shrug. Besides, she'd made her intentions toward Astron quite clear from the beginning, even if Esme had reservations.
Esme stepped forward, her gaze shifting between Irina and Astron, before settling on the bracelet. "Is this truly your final choice?" she asked, her voice steady but laced with curiosity. Irina could sense her subtle intrigue—Esme, like herself, was likely wondering what Astron had seen in such a simple piece.
Irina watched Astron, who only nodded in quiet confirmation, his expression unchanging. She noticed the brief flicker of curiosity in Esme's eyes as she studied the bracelet once more. "To choose a modest artifact like this… I suppose there must be something unique to it," she murmured, half to herself. "After all, anyone who can endure the Chamber of Emberheart has already proven to be resilient. And since you are one of those, I wonder what you have seen in it."
Irina felt a pang of pride at Esme's words, realizing how Astron's reputation was growing even within her own household.
Astron glanced at Esme, his expression as calm as ever. "What do you think, Miss Esme? Can you sense anything different about this bracelet?" His tone was polite, but Irina couldn't help but feel there was a subtle edge to his question, almost as if he were testing her perception—or her opinion of him.
Esme's gaze lowered to the bracelet, her face composed as she examined it, though Irina could see her cautious pause. "I can't sense anything out of the ordinary," she replied, her tone respectful but measured. "And I certainly don't possess qualifications above those of the appraisers who have examined it. They would have noted any unique properties." She lifted her gaze, the statement hanging in the air as a quiet challenge. If Astron was mistaken about this artifact, it might imply he had overestimated his insight, possibly lowering his standing within the household's eyes.
Astron, however, didn't seem fazed. He shrugged slightly, his expression unbothered. "That's normal," he replied with an expressionless face. "Most people wouldn't notice. You don't need to worry." The words were mild, yet there was an unmistakable undertone that Irina picked up on—a subtle assertion that Esme was just like most people in matters such as these, lacking the insight he possessed.
Esme's eyebrows lifted ever so slightly, her gaze sharpening, though she maintained her composure. She chose not to respond, merely inclining her head in acknowledgment, though Irina could sense the flicker of disapproval beneath her stoic expression.
With a final nod from Esme, who had been observing them carefully from the start, Irina and Astron exited the Emberheart armory. Esme had seen every move they'd made, noting that Astron had only taken the single item the Matriarch had allowed. Satisfied that nothing amiss had transpired, she closed the doors behind them, leaving the two alone in the quiet hallway.
They stepped out into the slightly cool air of the Etheria Haven, the twilight casting a gentle, muted glow over the surroundings. Irina took a deep breath, letting the crispness of the evening air calm the lingering thoughts from their exchange in the armory. A silence stretched between them, comfortable yet tinged with the weight of their earlier conversation.
Irina cast a sidelong glance at Astron, the bracelet now settled on his wrist. She still couldn't shake her curiosity—there had to be more to that artifact than met the eye. He walked with his usual calm, but there was an undeniable air of satisfaction about him, like he'd achieved something only he understood.
"So… was this all part of the plan?" she asked her tone light yet probing.
"What do you think?"
As they walked, Irina's mind whirled with questions she didn't dare voice aloud. She cast another glance at Astron, her gaze narrowing as she took in his composed expression, that faint smirk still lingering on his face as if he were savoring some private victory.
She huffed, unable to resist. "I refuse to believe you'd go through the trouble of requesting access to the Emberheart armory, winning a bet and all, just to pick… that." Her words came out sharper than intended, her tone a mix of irritation and something else—a deeper curiosity she couldn't suppress.
Astron tilted his head, unbothered by her tone. "Is that so? And what did you expect?"
A pang of frustration flared within her. 'This guy,' she thought, clenching her fists subtly, 'why does he always act like he knows something no one else does?'
She thought of the other timeline—the world she'd glimpsed in fragments, where Astron was someone else entirely. So much of him didn't line up with what she remembered. It wasn't just his actions, but the way he looked at her, as though he held secrets too vast to even begin explaining. And those secrets weren't limited to his knowledge of her family or the academy; no, it was as if he saw through the very core of her, stripping away her pride and defenses with that unreadable gaze.
Irina hesitated, her thoughts tangling. She wanted to ask, needed to, but the courage seemed to slip from her grasp each time. How did he know so much about her, about her family, about the vulnerabilities she'd tried so hard to hide? Why did he behave differently than he should, as if shaped by some force she couldn't comprehend?
Yet, her voice faltered as she looked up at him. 'There's no way I can just ask him outright,' she thought, feeling the familiar weight of pride holding her back. She shook her head, trying to brush off the lingering questions, her voice softening. "Sometimes, it feels like you're… different," she murmured, barely loud enough for him to hear.
Astron's gaze flicked toward her, his expression curious. "Different, how?"
She swallowed, casting her eyes away. "It doesn't matter," she replied quickly, her cheeks warming as she realized she'd said more than she'd intended.
With their steps falling into a comfortable rhythm, Irina's thoughts turned to the deal she'd won through stubborn determination and a well-placed bet. She had brought Astron into the Emberheart armory, navigating the endless obstacles her mother had thrown her way, from sudden changes in plans to last-minute "tests of worthiness" designed to keep Astron out. But she'd done it—she'd fulfilled her end of the bargain.
And now it was his turn.
The thought brought a spark of excitement to her chest, something she'd held onto through the grueling weeks in the Chamber of Emberheart. The relentless fire, the constant pain—it had all been endurable because she knew that on the other side of it waited this moment. A whole week. Just her and Astron, no distractions, no outside interruptions, a promise he'd made when she won their bet.
She cast a glance his way, a flicker of anticipation showing in her eyes. "Now that I've delivered on my end, it's time for you to keep your promise, isn't it?"
Astron looked over at her, a hint of amusement softening his usually impassive face. "You mean you actually remember that?"
Irina rolled her eyes, crossing her arms as she walked. "Of course, I remember. Do you think I endured three weeks of burning in the Chamber of Emberheart just to let this slip?" She huffed, though there was a playfulness to her tone that she couldn't hide. "For the whole week, you're mine. You promised."
He raised an eyebrow, his gaze steady. "I did. Though I have to admit, I'm curious what exactly you're planning."
She smirked, a mischievous glint lighting her eyes. "You'll find out soon enough. But first…" She hesitated, looking away as a flicker of uncertainty crossed her face. For all her anticipation, now that the moment was here, a small part of her felt oddly self-conscious.
'After all this time waiting, I can't back down now,'
she thought, steeling herself.
"Hehehe…..You will see."
Hearing her saying that Astron raised his eyebrows.
Irina shot him a smug grin, crossing her arms with a self-satisfied look
. 'Get a taste of your own medicine, you bastard,'
she thought, feeling a surge of satisfaction at the baffled look in his eyes. Astron had left her hanging so many times, tossing her half-answers and cryptic remarks whenever it suited him, always keeping her guessing. Now, finally, it was her turn to keep him in the dark.
"Oh?" he asked, his curiosity piqued, but she could see the flicker of wariness beneath his calm expression.
But she wasn't about to give him anything more. "Just wait," she replied, practically humming with triumph. She could practically feel him straining to figure her out, and it was a glorious reversal.
They walked side by side, her mind racing with the plans she'd laid out for their week. Every detail was tucked away in her mind, carefully prepared. She wanted to give him a glimpse of her world—the parts she valued most. And, maybe, she wanted to learn more about him, to coax out the person beneath his usual guarded front.
In the silence, she felt the anticipation build, knowing she held all the cards this time. Glancing over at him, she caught the slight crease in his brow as he pondered, and her grin widened.
'Now you know how it feels to be on the other side,'
she thought with a quiet thrill.
'Hope you're ready, Astron. This is just the beginning.'
As they continued walking, Astron suddenly stopped and turned to her with that familiar, unreadable expression of his. "By the way, Irina," he began, his tone casual, "is it possible to use one of your training grounds?"
Irina blinked, her momentum halted. "Our training grounds?" She raised an eyebrow, eyeing him with suspicion. "Why? Planning to give me a private show of your skills?"
He shrugged, his gaze unbothered. "Not quite," he replied smoothly. "I need to test the equipment. That's it."
Chapter 675 - Really (2)
"Not quite. I need to test the equipment. That's it."
Irina considered his request for a moment, her curiosity piqued. It was fair enough that he wanted to test the equipment—she could only guess at what he'd seen in that bracelet, and part of her was eager to witness it firsthand. Besides, they had the rest of the week ahead of them; one night spent indulging his request wouldn't cut into her plans too much.
And also it was freeing to be done with all obligations, with only the open week stretching before them. '
I'll have all the time I need to get my plans in motion,'
she thought, glancing sidelong at Astron, who followed her with his usual calm. Their official deal hadn't even started yet; tonight, he wasn't under any obligations from the bet. Monday would mark the beginning of the week she'd won, a whole week before classes resumed.
"Fine," she nodded, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Go ahead. I'll show you to the training grounds." She turned, leading him through the Emberheart estate's winding halls and out to the grounds specially designed for intense combat practice. The large space was outfitted with powerful, mana-reactive equipment, each piece built to withstand the force of their family's fiery abilities.
"Wait…."
Irina paused mid-step, the realization hitting her like a spark in a powder keg. Why was she even considering the main training grounds, knowing full well that the place was constantly under some form of surveillance? With Astron's tendency to keep things hidden, he'd likely hold back, wary of prying eyes. Not to mention, the general training grounds could be bustling with people at this hour, trainees honing their skills even after dark.
'No,'
she thought, quickly dismissing the idea.
Her
training ground would be better—more secluded, and far from any unnecessary onlookers. Her family maintained a private area meant for high-level training and sparring, typically reserved for those with the Emberheart name or their most trusted allies. And tonight, it was empty.
She couldn't deny the convenience of it. She'd have an uninterrupted view of his techniques, and he could train without the constraints of public scrutiny. Not that she needed a private place with him, of course—it was simply the best option. This was about practicality, not the slight thrill that came with the idea of having his undivided attention in her personal space.
With a firm nod, she turned to him, her face the picture of calm resolve. "Actually, I've got a better idea," she said, her tone casual as if the thought had just occurred to her. "I have my own training ground. It's away from the others, so you won't have to worry about interruptions."
Astron tilted his head, his eyes narrowing just slightly as he studied her, though he didn't protest. "Lead the way, then."
Irina did just that, fighting to keep a neutral expression as they walked the short distance to her personal training grounds. It was a quiet, open-air arena set back from the main complex, shielded by high walls and enchanted to keep sound from escaping. Only the faint glow of mana lights along the perimeter illuminated the area, giving the space a good ambiance.
Of course, he knew her motives, as what she did was evident. And she also knew he knew, but so what?
In the end, did it matter?
As they returned to her own building, Irina led Astron into her personal training grounds, her expression neutral despite the underlying anticipation.
She had already shown him the way in her building so she didn't do it again.
The first room she showed him was dedicated to mana and magic training, the second was the physical combat room, a space outfitted with dummies, reinforced targets, and specialized equipment for agility, strength, and endurance.
And the third one was the one she relied on most for battle training—her combat magic room. Here, targets were enchanted to react with high-intensity defenses, forcing her to weave her physical prowess with her magic.
There was also a place that she would consider as her most personal space, though for the time being Astron had no business being there.
Irina guided Astron into her third training room, the one she relied on most for refining her combat magic. She had shown him this room briefly during the tour, but now she intended to give him a real demonstration of how it functioned. The air inside felt different—charged with traces of residual mana and the unmistakable scent of singed metal and stone. Enchanted targets lined the far wall, each one specifically designed to withstand high-intensity attacks, adjusting its defenses in response to the level of force applied.
"Here we are," she said.
Astron scanned the room, his expression thoughtful as he took in the reinforced walls and the strategically placed mana channels embedded into the floor. She could tell he was assessing every detail, and she resisted the urge to smirk.
'Go ahead, try to figure it all out,'
she thought.
'I've spent years in here, and I doubt you'll grasp it all in one glance.'
Without waiting for him to respond, she strode over to one of the targets, her hand glowing faintly as she summoned a controlled burst of Emberheart fire. The flames flared to life around her palm, dancing in rich shades of crimson and gold as she channeled them into her fist. With a sharp exhale, she punched forward, sending the flames barreling into the target. The enchanted defenses responded instantly, a shimmering barrier flaring up to absorb the impact before dissipating just as quickly.
"This is what I mean," she explained, her tone matter-of-fact. "The target's enchantment adjusts to absorb or deflect attacks, so I have to keep increasing the force if I want to break through. It's a battle of endurance and control."
She stepped back, looking at him expectantly. "So… any thoughts? Or are you just going to observe?"
"Observing is part of it," he said smoothly. "But I didn't come here just to watch. Change the mode to the all-rounder one."
Irina blinked, momentarily thrown off by Astron's request. "All-rounder mode?" she echoed, slightly confused.
But then, understanding dawned on her. Of course—this room had three modes, each tailored for different training purposes:
Offense
, where the targets focused purely on countering her attacks;
Defense
, where they simulated a constant onslaught for her to parry and evade; and finally, the combined mode, which her family had given a formal name—
Total Resonance
. It was a mode designed to push both offensive and defensive abilities to their limit, forcing the user to adapt between attacking and evading with little warning.
Because he said
All Rounder
instead of
Total Resonance
she didn't grasp it at once.
She let out an exaggerated sigh, crossing her arms. "Honestly, anyone with a functioning brain could have figured that out," she muttered, though her words lacked real annoyance. It was just like Astron to pick up on the nuances of the room with a single glance.
With a nod, she stepped over to a panel embedded in the wall. A faint pulse of mana later, she activated
Total Resonance
. The room responded instantly: mana channels embedded in the floor and walls flared to life, casting an ethereal glow over the area. The targets along the far wall adjusted, their forms shifting as they prepared to engage in both offensive and defensive maneuvers.
She turned back to him, giving a half-smirk. "There you go. Let's see if you can keep up."
Astron glanced around, a gleam of interest in his eyes as he took in the changes. "Remember, I am not here to showcase my abilities, we are here to test the bracelet out."
"Heh….You might be planning that. But this is my home. Remember the saying? In Emberheart Estate, do as Emberhearts do."
"…..That saying, it definitely was not Emberhearts."
Hearing Astron's response, Irina couldn't help but smirk, crossing her arms. "Well, I just changed it, then. Does that bother you?" She raised an eyebrow, the faintest hint of a challenge in her tone. "Or are you just scared?"
Astron let out a sigh, shaking his head. "Do you really have to use the same excuse every time? I'd think you'd have found a better provocation by now."
She whistled, feigning innocence. "When have I ever used the same excuse? You're imagining things." Her tone was light, teasing, and she watched as he merely shook his head, a ghost of a smile touching his otherwise stoic face.
Satisfied, Irina turned on her heel, walking toward a small, enclosed section at the edge of the room. The area was reinforced with multiple defensive formations, designed as a spectator's safe zone while still offering a clear view of the action. From here, she'd be able to watch Astron's every move without the threat of stray mana or debris.
Settling into her vantage point, she leaned casually against the transparent barrier, watching as he stepped fully into the center of the training area. She could already see the targets recalibrating, shifting subtly as they assessed his presence and prepared to challenge both his offense and defense simultaneously.
"Let's see the bracelet that you have chosen."
Irina's gaze narrowed with intrigue, her curiosity growing as she settled back into the safe zone. Her eyes stayed fixed on Astron, her thoughts lingering on the bracelet he'd chosen. Out of all the artifacts in the armory, what had he seen in that simple, unassuming bracelet to make it his choice?
As if in answer, Astron stepped into position, facing the enchanted dummies now poised to attack. The room went silent for a heartbeat, and then the targets launched forward in synchronized motion, moving with a speed and precision that would force most opponents into evasive maneuvers. Yet Astron didn't move to dodge. Instead, he held his ground, a faint pulse of mana radiating from him, calm and controlled.
Irina's eyes widened slightly as she observed his aura. His entire body seemed charged with mana—not just coating his skin in a protective layer, as most mages would do when enhancing themselves, but rather circulating mana through his body in a strange, almost rhythmic flow, moving from inside to outside, every fiber of him infused with power.
"Martial arts?" she muttered to herself, realization dawning on her as she watched. This wasn't ordinary combat magic or body reinforcement—Astron was channeling his mana through his internal circuits, almost as if he were one with it, blending strength and agility with an elegance that went beyond typical spellwork.
And as she remembered, only [Martial Artist]s tended to do that.
'Interesting…..'
It seemed Astron had not been slacking off in his break at all.
Chapter 676 - Why don't you see for yourself ?
Astron settled into position, his stance shifting slightly as he prepared to engage the dummies in earnest. Irina watched closely, her curiosity intensifying. She was already familiar with his impressive speed and agility—qualities that had always set him apart. And true to form, he displayed those traits now, weaving effortlessly through the oncoming strikes with a fluidity that made it look almost easy.
Yet something nagged at her. This was the same Astron she'd seen before, albeit with a slightly heightened speed thanks to the bracelet. He moved with precision, slipping between attacks, delivering well-timed counters that incapacitated the dummies one by one. But that was it. Nothing about his movements explained why he'd chosen the bracelet over artifacts that were far more powerful and suited to magic or even defense.
Irina's brow furrowed as she continued to watch, scrutinizing each of his moves. He was fast, yes—almost too fast for an ordinary opponent to keep up. But was that all? Was it really so important to him that he'd chosen a modest agility boost over enchanted weapons or protective amulets? It didn't add up.
'What am I missing?' she thought, irritation pricking at her as she tried to reconcile his choice with what she was seeing. The bracelet made him faster, sure, but there were many ways to achieve speed. And even though he moved gracefully, each strike landing with purpose, she couldn't shake the feeling that the bracelet was only part of the equation.
She leaned forward slightly, her eyes narrowing as she focused, determined to see beyond the surface. 'Why this piece?'
Irina continued to watch Astron, her eyes tracking every movement as he navigated the relentless strikes from the enchanted dummies. His speed was remarkable—higher than she'd ever seen from him before. But as she observed more closely, she realized that this speed wasn't simply from the bracelet. The increase felt far beyond what a modest agility boost could provide.
'He must've been training intensely during the break,' she thought, her brows knitting in confusion. The bracelet, though useful, couldn't account for this significant leap in his stats. It was clear he hadn't been idle; if anything, his agility and reflexes seemed almost honed to a razor's edge, each movement so precise it bordered on effortless. Still, the nagging question remained: why the bracelet?
As the session wore on, she felt a faint sense of frustration. While he performed flawlessly, each strike perfectly timed and each movement unhindered, she couldn't pinpoint what she was supposed to be observing in relation to the artifact. In truth, he could've achieved nearly the same outcome without it.
When Astron finally slowed, allowing the room's enchantments to power down, Irina stepped out of her reinforced section and approached him, her curiosity unabated. She folded her arms, leveling him with a direct look.
"All right," she said, her tone edged with challenge. "You've tested the bracelet. But… what was I supposed to see, exactly?" She gestured toward his wrist, her eyes scanning his calm expression, looking for any hint of an explanation. "Because, from where I'm standing, it doesn't seem like it made much difference."
Astron looked at her, his expression calm as he nodded, seemingly agreeing with her assessment. "That's exactly how it was supposed to be seen," he replied, his tone measured. "After all, whoever brought this bracelet into your family's armory would've tested it thoroughly. If it had any obvious powers, they would have noted it. So, what you saw is precisely what anyone else would see."
Irina frowned slightly, processing his words before nodding. "All right," she conceded, though her curiosity was far from satisfied. "Then… what's the point?"
Astron didn't answer immediately. Instead, he looked at her with a question of his own. "Tell me, Irina—what makes a piece of equipment better than others?"
Irina straightened, feeling as though she'd just been handed a challenge. Her knowledge and training as a mage had long since taught her how to evaluate equipment, and she didn't hesitate as she began explaining.
"Well, it depends on a few factors," she said, her tone shifting into that of a teacher, as if she were presenting a lesson. "First, the equipment's inherent properties matter—its enchantments, how well it's crafted, and what kinds of materials were used. Then, there's compatibility. An artifact that aligns with the wielder's mana or abilities can elevate its effectiveness. And of course, there's adaptability, how versatile the piece is in different situations. Some artifacts shine in specific uses, while others are well-rounded and dependable in any situation."
She paused, glancing at him to gauge his reaction, but his face remained unreadable, prompting her to continue. "Lastly, there's potential—some artifacts grow stronger with the user or adapt over time. So, to sum it up, the best equipment is strong in its own right, works seamlessly with its wielder, and has potential for growth."
Astron nodded thoughtfully, his gaze unwavering. "You're right, Irina. But the way you're assessing it—it's a consumer's perspective. And while that's useful, it lacks a certain depth."
Irina arched an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "So, you're saying I should look at it from the creator's perspective?" She crossed her arms, a hint of challenge in her tone. "If it were that easy, I'd be creating my own artifacts, wouldn't I?"
"True," Astron agreed with a slight incline of his head. "But understanding a piece of equipment as a creator would isn't necessarily about crafting it yourself. It's about knowing what to look for. Sometimes, even with basic knowledge, you can infer a lot if you approach it from the right angle."
Irina's eyes narrowed, scrutinizing him. "That's exactly what you're good at, isn't it?" Her voice softened as the realization dawned on her. "You don't just look at things the way everyone else does."
She paused, her mind racing as she pieced it together. 'This guy sees things differently. It's like he has a lens no one else has… something about his eyes.'
The pieces fell into place with a startling clarity. Astron's ability to choose the bracelet wasn't just about theoretical knowledge or random chance. He had seen something others hadn't. Her ancestors, the armory appraisers, anyone else who had looked at that bracelet—they'd only looked with surface-level vision. But Astron, he'd been able to see through it, to look deeper in a way that went beyond ordinary observation.
"Your eyes," she murmured, barely audible, staring at him with newfound curiosity. "There's something… different about them, isn't there?"
Astron held her gaze, his expression unreadable but the faintest flicker of acknowledgment in his eyes.
Irina's eyes narrowed as she considered her next question, trying to put the pieces together. "So… is it about the material? Or maybe something with the engraving?" she asked, her tone probing, her gaze intent on him.
At her words, she caught a faint shift in Astron's expression—a barely noticeable change, but enough for her to sense she was onto something. Her eyes widened in realization.
If she was right, then this meant Astron could actually see through the material and grasp a possible way to improve it?
The thought left her momentarily speechless.
'This guy…' she thought, awe settling over her.
He has an ability that goes beyond typical sight.
Then, without a word, Astron reached into his spatial storage, his hand reappearing with a small, slightly shiny piece of metal that seemed to pulse with contained mana. He held it out to her, the material gleaming in the dim light of the room.
"This is Orichalum," he said simply, the name carrying weight. The metal was rare, difficult to refine, and incredibly potent in mana conductivity. For many, this was the foundation of high-grade artifacts. Though her family possessed the resources to acquire it, even they used it sparingly due to its cost and the skill needed to work with it.
Irina looked at the Orichalum in his hand, her mind racing with possibilities. "You're telling me… you saw a way to use this with the bracelet?" she asked, incredulity coloring her voice. "You could refine it?"
When Irina asked if he could refine the bracelet himself, Astron simply shook his head. "If I could do that, I'd be an artifact creator," he replied dryly. "But I can do something else."
Without further explanation, he took the bracelet in one hand and held the Orichalum in the other, his gaze steady as he watched her reaction. He seemed to be measuring her understanding, waiting for the realization to dawn.
Then, he spoke, his voice calm but purposeful. "Let me ask you something, Irina. Why do you think a bracelet like this—something that doesn't align with any of the Emberheart skills or fighting style—ended up here, in your family's armory?"
Irina considered his question, her mind racing as she looked from the bracelet to the Orichalum in his hand. Why indeed? If this bracelet had no direct use for her family, then there had to be something else that warranted its place among their treasures. She thought back to what he'd already hinted at.
"The material…" she said slowly, piecing it together. "It's because of the material it was made with, isn't it?"
"Exactly," Astron replied a glint of satisfaction in his gaze. He motioned for her to come closer, and she obliged, intrigued despite herself.
"That's why it's here," he continued, holding up the Orichalum in his hand. "The bracelet is made with a dormant layer of a similar mana-conductive metal, one that can be activated—but only with a specific kind of flame."
Irina's breath caught as she began to realize what he was implying. "You mean… my flame."
"Precisely." His tone was matter-of-fact as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "Only a flame like yours—one from an Emberheart—can invoke a reaction in this material. It wasn't about choosing a piece with immediate power. It was about seeing the potential for something greater."
Irina furrowed her brow, skepticism flashing across her face. "This is… why do I feel like this is just a bunch of nonsense?" she muttered, half to herself, still grappling with the idea of her flames activating the bracelet's dormant potential.
Astron merely shrugged, a calm, knowing look in his eyes. "Of course, it sounds hard to believe. It's not something most would notice right away." He took a step back, positioning himself with a relaxed stance, clearly inviting her to test his words.
He raised a hand, gesturing for her to come at him, a slight curl tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Why don't you see for yourself?"
It was an invitation to fight.
Chapter 677 - Why don't you see for yourself ? (2)
"Why don't you see for yourself?"
Astron's invitation to spar hung in the air, his calm gaze unwavering as he waited for her response. Irina studied his expression, noting the subtle intensity in his eyes and the slight smirk on his lips.
So he wanted to test the bracelet and see what it could truly handle
—and, if she was honest with herself, she was just as eager to see what he was capable of.
A smirk curved her lips as a spark of anticipation ignited within her. She'd always wanted a better grasp of Astron's strength, and here was the perfect opportunity to do just that.
But she raised an eyebrow, meeting his gaze. "Are you serious about this?" she asked, a hint of mischief in her tone. "Should I grab some protective gear for you? My flames aren't exactly gentle."
Astron shook his head, his expression relaxed but resolute. "This is just a spar. And let's be honest," he replied smoothly, "no equipment will save me from your flames anyway." He paused, then added, "Besides, I trust you to control your strength."
The simple statement caught her off guard, warmth flickering through her chest at his words. His trust in her, despite the power she wielded, meant more than she cared to admit.
"Fine," she said, taking her stance and letting her mana flare to life around her. Her flames danced along her arms, rich and vibrant, embodying the very essence of Emberheart fire. "Don't blame me if you get singed," she teased, though there was a softness to her tone that wasn't usually there.
Astron mirrored her, settling into a balanced stance, his gaze steady, unwavering. "I'll take my chances."
3
As the timer counted down, Irina took a deep breath, focusing her mana into a simmering warmth that spread through her core. She knew Astron's speed was his greatest advantage, so she'd need to be precise, using her flames to control his movements and force him to respond to her terms.
2
'Alright, Astron,'
she thought, feeling the ember of anticipation flare into readiness.
'Let's see just how quick you are.'
1
SWOOSH!
The moment the timer hit zero, Astron shot forward, moving with explosive speed, his figure blurring as he aimed to close the gap between them. Irina reacted immediately, sweeping her hand forward as a wave of flame surged from her fingertips, fanning out to create a wall of heat in his path. Her mana pulsed in steady waves, a testament to her control, as she wove the fire into a barrier designed to slow his approach, if only for a split second.
But Astron was ready. He didn't hesitate, twisting his body mid-sprint to sidestep her flames. His movements were fluid, almost as if he could read her intentions, dodging the fire with practiced agility.
'As expected,'
Irina noted, her eyes narrowing.
Without missing a beat, she spun her wrist, redirecting the flames to trail after him. This wasn't about overpowering him—she knew better than to waste her energy against someone as evasive as Astron.
Instead, she focused on creating a rhythm, a tempo to her attacks that would eventually force him to commit to a defensive stance.
"Not bad," Astron called, his voice calm even as he dodged another fiery arc. His steps were calculated, every movement efficient and precise, like he was studying her just as much as she was studying him.
"Let's see how long you can keep that up," she replied, a hint of challenge in her voice. Her flames pulsed brighter, flickering as if they shared her excitement. With a flick of her fingers, she sent small bursts of fire toward him—quick, compact attacks designed to probe his defenses.
Astron's response was instantaneous. He weaved through her attacks, slipping past each burst of flame with ease. But Irina didn't let up, increasing the pace of her strikes, her mana thrumming as she pushed herself harder, flames surging in controlled bursts.
Finally, she saw her chance. Astron was forced to dodge a low arc of fire, his balance shifting ever so slightly. In that split-second opening, she thrust her hand forward, sending a concentrated blaze directly at his chest.
But Astron was quicker than she'd anticipated. He twisted his body with impressive agility, the flames grazing past him, leaving only a faint scorch mark on his sleeve. Before she could fully register the near-miss, he countered, closing the distance in an instant, his hand coming down in a quick strike aimed at her shoulder.
Irina barely had time to react, but her instincts kicked in. She shifted, angling her arm to intercept his strike while channeling her mana through her body, creating a thin layer of heat around her skin. His hand connected, but the fiery shield absorbed much of the impact, leaving a stinging sensation rather than real pain.
A grin spread across her face as they disengaged, though she was breathing a little heavy.
'This guy? When did he become this fast?'
He was even faster than when he was dealing with the dummies just now. It was evident that he was not showing his full speed at all.
"Not bad yourself," she quipped, letting her flames flicker brighter. "But I hope you're not holding back too much."
"….."
Astron did not reply, simply looking at her.
Irina's smirk faltered as she caught Astron's gaze, his eyes carrying a silent message of victory. He hadn't said a word, but the look was enough. It was as if he was telling her that he'd won that round effortlessly, as though her carefully controlled flames had been nothing more than a warm-up to him. The realization sparked a flare of indignation in her chest.
'Is he serious? I was going easy on him, and he dares look at me like that?'
She narrowed her eyes, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. "Alright," she said, her voice low but laced with challenge. "You're asking for it. I won't hold back as much this time. Let's see if you can keep that expression then."
Astron raised an eyebrow, giving a faint nod, his calm demeanor unchanged. That only fueled her resolve further. Taking a step back, they both assumed their stances, each one silently preparing for the intensity of the second round. Irina could feel the anticipation building in the air, her flames burning brighter as she gathered her mana, letting it course through her body with renewed purpose.
The moment the signal sounded, she moved, sending a wide arc of flames cascading across the ground, creating a wall of fire that spanned the entire width of their makeshift arena. Her goal was clear: limit his movements, cut off any escape routes, and make him truly contend with her flames.
This time, there would be no restraint.
FLICK!
With a flick of her wrist, the wall of flames surged forward, inching closer to Astron, forcing him to backpedal.
SWIRL!
She followed up with a second layer of fire, interweaving smaller bursts between the larger arcs, making it impossible for him to find an opening. The heat intensified, casting a flickering orange glow that bathed the area in a fierce, oppressive warmth.
To her satisfaction, Astron was forced to stay on the defensive, his agility limited as he dodged each strike, his expression sharpening as he realized her change in tactics. She could see his gaze darting from flame to flame, calculating his next move, but she didn't let up, pushing him harder and harder.
"Not so easy when I don't hold back, is it?" she called a victorious edge in her voice. She intensified the heat, pouring more mana into the flames, making them sear the ground around him, creating a dangerous perimeter he couldn't step into without risking a burn.
For a moment, she thought she'd cornered him. But just as she prepared to close in, Astron shifted his stance, his body tensing. In one swift movement, he leaped, launching himself over a surge of flames with perfect timing. The maneuver was bold—and dangerously close to reckless—but he landed on the other side unscathed.
And the way he moved was a perfect example of complete body control, as he didn't waste any movement at all.
Irina felt a surge of respect, mixed with a renewed determination.
'He's really not backing down.'
But that was it.
'And I knew you would do it like that.'
Astron was using [Martial Arts] right now at this moment, and he was fighting barehanded. She didn't know why he was doing that, but now that he had decided to take this route, she wouldn't complain.
Irina focused, visualizing Astron's movements in her mind, the way he'd counter her flames with precision and agility. His mastery over every muscle, each motion deliberate and efficient—it was impressive, even a little exhilarating. But she wasn't about to let him mock her with that calm expression, as though he'd already won.
'Alright, Astron,' she thought, a smirk forming on her lips. 'Let's see how you handle this.'
In an instant, she summoned multiple Fire Javelins, their tips glowing hot as they hovered in the air before her. With a quick motion, she sent them hurtling toward him in rapid succession, each one aimed to test his evasive skills. She knew he'd dodge, and that was precisely what she was counting on.
True to her expectation, Astron's body moved, weaving between the flaming projectiles with speed and control. He sidestepped each javelin, his gaze sharp and focused, but Irina was already onto her next move.
With a flick of her fingers, she channeled her mana again, igniting the ground around him. Flames burst up in a tight circle, forming a wall of fire that surrounded him completely, cutting off any horizontal escape. She watched him carefully, her smirk widening.
'Let's see if you're bold enough to run through that,' she mused.
She saw him pause for a split second, evaluating his options. And then, just as she'd anticipated, he bent his knees, preparing to leap. Her flames roared higher, framing him perfectly against the fiery background. This was her moment.
[School of Emberheart. Pointy Blaze.]
The second he launched into the air, Irina's mana surged as she focused on a single, powerful blaze. With practiced precision, she directed a concentrated arc of fire directly at him, its path aligned with his mid-air trajectory. There was no way he could dodge mid-leap, and the realization struck her with a spark of satisfaction.
'Got you, Astron.'
As the flames closed in on him, she couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation. The image of him charred and singed was oddly satisfying, yet…she didn't actually want to harm him, especially that face of his.
Yet, things didn't play as she wished.
Suddenly, something that she would never have expected happened.
BLAST!
Her flames were blasted back.
And there, as her flames were blasted back, she saw the bracelet on the Astron's arm shining, with the Orichalcum melted onto the bracelet itself.
Chapter 678 - Why don't you see for yourself (3)
As I landed, the bracelet gleaming on my wrist, a sense of satisfaction settled over me. The Orichalcum had fused perfectly, the flames Irina unleashed igniting a reaction I'd anticipated, but that even she hadn't seen coming. It was the developers' handiwork at its finest—a hidden mechanic that most players would overlook entirely, a reward for those who knew to look beyond the surface.
'Easter eggs,'
I thought to myself,
'they're not meant to be obvious. They need to be hard to discover—obscure enough that only a few would ever find them.'
The best secrets aren't gifts wrapped in neon lights; they're woven into the world, tucked away where only the most persistent or the luckiest can stumble upon them. They require a delicate balance, almost like a developer's art form. Sure, some items can be found with basic exploration, but the truly powerful artifacts? They come with a catch. A trick. A test. Something only the right set of eyes or the right moment can unveil.
In my old gaming days, I used to scroll through forums where players would swap rumors and half-baked theories about hidden items, mysterious interactions, and vague dialogue choices that hinted at something deeper. Most of the time, it was just speculation or dead ends.
But once in a while, someone would hit the jackpot. They'd connect the dots, follow the breadcrumbs, and unlock something incredible. It wasn't just the item itself that made it memorable—it was the thrill of discovery, the satisfaction of finding something hidden in plain sight.
'A hidden artifact should be just that: hidden. Out of reach for those who settle for the obvious.'
I glanced over at Irina, her expression shifting from surprise to something closer to awe.
'Well…..that is the expression that I was looking forward to.'
Seeing her reaction was kind of funny, and for whatever reason, I felt warm inside. This feeling was rather odd, and I certainly did not expect to feel it at this moment, but for some reason I did.
Irina's eyes widened as she stared at the bracelet on my wrist, the glint of Orichalcum still fused into the metal. She seemed to be piecing things together, her expression somewhere between astonishment and disbelief.
"Did that… did all of that come from that bracelet?" she asked, her voice a mixture of curiosity and wonder.
I nodded, keeping my face carefully neutral, though it took every bit of self-control to keep from smirking. "Yes," I replied, my tone as calm as I could manage. "That reaction was entirely thanks to the bracelet."
Her eyes flickered between me and the bracelet, trying to make sense of it all. And honestly, I couldn't blame her. After all, there was a reason why this bracelet had been hidden as an easter egg. For it to reach its full potential, it needed three very specific components: Emberheart's flame, this particular bracelet, and a piece of Orichalcum, all in the same place. The odds of that combination happening naturally? Astronomically low. But that's exactly what made it so brilliant.
'This is why the developers loved these kinds of details,'
I thought to myself. Easter eggs were supposed to be tucked away, only accessible to those who either stumbled upon them by pure luck or figured out the right sequence through an almost unnatural level of curiosity and persistence. The bracelet, by itself, looked like nothing special. In fact, I could see why even her family's appraisers had dismissed it as a Unique-grade artifact at best. It didn't scream power, didn't have an obvious aura or visible enchantment. But with the right elements? It became something extraordinary.
Irina was still staring, her brows furrowed in thought. She looked as though she wanted to ask a hundred questions at once, her mind racing to understand just what had happened.
"It's not something most people would notice," I offered, breaking the silence.
"But...what exactly it does?"
"Couldn't you see?"
She seemed momentarily speechless, her gaze flicking to the bracelet and then back to me, searching for any sign of deception. But I could tell she was starting to accept the truth of it, her expression softening as understanding dawned.
Irina's gaze drifted to the bracelet again, her lips moving in a faint murmur as she pieced it together. "It has… a special mana-repelling ability, doesn't it?"
I nodded, feeling a flicker of respect for her keen perception. "Exactly. This bracelet wasn't just crafted for speed. It has an ability that most would overlook entirely, a power that's subtle but invaluable."
In its dormant state, this piece was simply known as
Emberlight Band
—a generic name that didn't hint at much. But in the game, once its potential was unlocked, players had come to know it as
Entropy's Aegis
. It was a name that held weight among those who understood the rarity of what this artifact could do.
"This bracelet's ability is unique," I explained, keeping my tone steady as I felt her interest deepen. "When the user is struck by an attack fueled with mana, the bracelet absorbs a portion of the entropy from that attack, storing it within. And when the user decides, it releases that stored entropy as a powerful repellent against incoming attacks."
She blinked, realization dawning on her face. "So, it doesn't just defend passively—it actually gives the user control over when to use that stored energy?"
"Exactly," I replied. "In essence, this bracelet is a high-ranked magical artifact that could protect its user from some of the strongest attacks, letting them turn the enemy's power against them. It doesn't just absorb—it deflects, creating a shield that's almost impossible to penetrate once it's charged."
Her eyes lit up with a new understanding. "No wonder….."
"Now, what do you think? Dare to doubt me?"
"...."
"Heh..."
Irina stared at me, her lips parted slightly, as though searching for something to say. For a moment, there was only silence. I could see the realization settling over her, the acknowledgment that the bracelet—something her family had overlooked—was far more significant than she'd initially thought.
But just as quickly, her expression shifted. Her brows furrowed, and she let out a soft huff, turning her face sharply to the side. "Hmph. It's nothing special," she said, her tone carrying a faint edge of irritation. "As long as the enemy is powerful enough, that bracelet will be useless anyway."
That was indeed the correct approach. As long as one is powerful enough, they can indeed break through this artifact.
"You're not wrong," I replied evenly, watching her closely. "That's true for all artifacts in the world. If someone is powerful enough, no artifact will be enough to stop them."
Her eyes flicked back to me, a spark of indignation flaring within them. "Exactly," she said, folding her arms as if she'd scored a point in some unseen debate. "Artifacts can only do so much. It's the person wielding them that matters most."
I nodded, letting her have her moment, though the amusement dancing in my chest was hard to contain. "You've hit the core truth of it," I said, my tone calm but pointed. "The bracelet is just a tool, Irina. It doesn't make me invincible. But in the right hands, at the right moment, it can make all the difference."
Irina's eyes narrowed as she studied me, her irritation bubbling just beneath the surface. I could see the wheels turning in her head, the subtle shift in her demeanor as she crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. And then, with a smirk that was equal parts challenge and bait, she spoke.
"In the right hands, huh? But can you even
effectively
utilize it?"
The words hung in the air, pointed but hollow—a cheap provocation, and she knew it. Ordinarily, I'd have shrugged something like that off without a second thought, letting the comment roll over me. After all, I wasn't the type to rise to obvious goading. But this wasn't just anyone trying to provoke me. This was Irina, and the intent behind her words was crystal clear.
'She wants to continue the spar, and she is trying to find an excuse for it.'
I met her gaze, calm and steady, letting her see that I wasn't fooled by her ploy. "You're trying awfully hard to poke holes in this, Irina," I said, my tone light, almost teasing. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were itching for another round."
Her smirk faltered for just a fraction of a second, a subtle shift that confirmed my suspicion. But instead of backing down, she leaned into her role, her expression sharpening into one of mock superiority. "Well, it's not my fault if you can't properly demonstrate its potential," she said, her tone dripping with feigned indifference. "If I'm going to take you seriously, you'd better show me what that bracelet can really do."
It was almost endearing, the way she tried to mask her excitement behind a veil of challenge. She wanted to test me, to push me further, and she wasn't going to admit it outright. And that was the same for me.
'Let me get myself familiar with the artifact.'
Even if it is me, I can't just get an artifact and utilize it effectively after just a second of getting it. And it is better to practice it against a strong opponent like Irina so that I can feel myself better as well.
"You're right," I said with a sigh, stepping forward as I adjusted the bracelet on my wrist. "It'd be a shame to let such an incredible artifact go untested."
Her eyes lit up, though she quickly masked it with a nonchalant shrug. "Exactly," she said, her voice steady, though I could hear the faint edge of anticipation creeping in. "Someone needs to make sure you're not all talk."
I nodded as I settled into a relaxed stance. "Alright, Irina," I said, my voice calm but carrying just enough weight to spark her competitive spirit. "You wanted another round? Let's see if you can make me use the bracelet's full potential."
She straightened, her flames flickering faintly to life around her, that fiery intensity back in her gaze. "Oh, don't worry," she said with a grin, her confidence blazing as brightly as her mana. "You won't have a choice."
"Heh…..We will see about that."
I mumbled, just then Irina came forward.
"But this time, let's get serious."
Saying that she activated a different mechanism in the room.