Chapter 160: Heroine Worried About A Boy
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the academy courtyard as Lucan walked, his thoughts focused on the fifth map piece. This fragment was more challenging to obtain than the others, not because of its location, but because of its current owner—a mysterious transfer student named Elias.
Elias had arrived at the academy only recently, and rumors quickly spread about his connections to an ancient guardian spirit, a being of immense power that had protected his family for generations.
Lucan knew he had to tread carefully. The map piece was essential to his quest, but Elias was no ordinary student. He carried himself with a calm confidence, his sharp, dark eyes revealing little but perceiving much.
Lucan had observed Elias from a distance for several days, noting his reserved demeanor and the way he always seemed slightly apart from the other students. He realized that a direct approach would be too risky. To succeed, Lucan needed to gain Elias's trust, and that required time and subtlety.
Their first encounter seemed accidental, though it was anything but. Lucan orchestrated the meeting near the academy's library, timing his approach perfectly to collide with Elias just as the latter exited the building. The impact sent Elias's books tumbling to the ground.
Lucan immediately dropped to one knee, scooping up the scattered volumes. "I'm so sorry," he said, offering Elias a warm, disarming smile. "I wasn't paying attention."
Elias looked down at Lucan, his expression neutral as he accepted the books. "No harm done," he replied.
Lucan handed over the last book, rising to his feet. "I don't think we've met. I'm Lucan. You're the new transfer student, right?"
"Elias," the other boy responded. He paused, then added, "I've heard of you. You're quite famous around here."
Lucan chuckled, brushing off the comment. "I try not to let it get to my head. The academy can be a tough place, especially for newcomers. If you ever need help with anything—classes, assignments, or just getting around—feel free to ask."
Elias nodded, though his expression remained guarded. "Thanks. I'll keep that in mind."
Over the next few days, Lucan made a point of being around Elias whenever possible. He arranged to study in the library at the same times, struck up conversations whenever they crossed paths, and even sat with him during meals in the dining hall.
Lucan's approach was gentle and patient, carefully avoiding any mention of the map piece or the guardian spirit. Instead, he focused on getting to know Elias, learning about his interests, his opinions on various topics, and his experiences before coming to the academy.
Elias, for his part, remained cautious. He was aware of Lucan's reputation. It was quite good reputation. So he was easily drawn to Lucan's charisma. Lucan was knowledgeable, articulate, and genuinely interested in what Elias had to say.
One day, while studying together in the library, Lucan subtly shifted the conversation toward more personal topics. "You know, Elias, I noticed you don't really talk much about your family. Is there a reason for that?"
Elias glanced at Lucan, then down at the book in front of him. "It's not that I don't want to talk about them," he said slowly, "It's just... complicated."
Lucan leaned back in his chair, maintaining a relaxed demeanor. "I get that. Family can be tough sometimes, especially when there are... expectations."
Elias hesitated, then nodded. "Yes, that's exactly it. There are certain expectations I have to meet, certain responsibilities I have to uphold."
Lucan let the silence linger for a moment before he spoke again. "I've heard some stories—rumors, really—about your family and a guardian spirit. I don't mean to pry, but I've always been fascinated by ancient spirits and the powers they possess. Is it true? Do you have a connection to one?" Your journey continues on m v|l-e'm,p y r
Elias looked at him sharply, the guarded expression returning to his face. For a moment, Lucan thought he had pushed too far, too soon. But then Elias sighed and nodded. "Yes, it's true. My family has been protected by a guardian spirit for centuries. It's both a blessing and a burden."
Lucan's eyes widened, feigning awe. "That's incredible. I can only imagine what it must be like to have that kind of power at your side. Does it ever… communicate with you?"
Elias was silent for a long moment before answering. "Yes, it does. The spirit guides me, tests me. It ensures that I stay on the right path."
Lucan's mind raced. This was the opportunity he had been waiting for. He leaned in slightly, his voice filled with genuine curiosity. "I'd love to learn more about it. Maybe… if it's possible, you could show me sometime?"
Elias considered the request, his eyes narrowing as he studied Lucan. "The spirit doesn't take kindly to those with ill intentions," Elias said slowly. "It tests everyone who seeks its presence."
Lucan nodded, his expression earnest. "I wouldn't dream of disrespecting such a powerful entity. I just want to understand more about it."
The following week, Elias agreed to show Lucan a glimpse of his guardian spirit. They met in a secluded grove just outside the academy grounds, a place where the spirit's presence was strong. As they stood in the center of the grove, Elias began to chant softly, his voice blending with the wind that rustled through the trees.
The air around them grew colder, and a faint, glowing mist began to swirl around Elias.
Lucan watched in fascination as the mist coalesced into a figure—a towering, ethereal being with eyes that burned like embers.
"This is the guardian spirit of my family," Elias said, his voice barely more than a whisper. "It has protected us for generations, ensuring that we remain strong and just."
Lucan nodded, "It's... amazing."
However, he knew this was not guardian spirit he was looking for. Elias might have other spirits as well.
In the days that followed, Lucan continued to build his relationship with Elias, carefully navigating the delicate balance between friendship and manipulation. He knew that gaining Elias's trust was only way to meet guardian spirit who have map.
As the two boys grew closer, Elias began to confide more in Lucan, sharing stories of his family, their history, and the burdens that came with their legacy. Lucan listened attentively, always careful to show just the right amount of interest and sympathy
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Maris noticed that Lucan was spending a lot off time with a boy. She hope that what she was thinking isn't real.