CHAPTER 399: MEETING

Occasionally, Seraph would quietly join them as well, her gentle yet anxious presence casting a subtle shadow over the otherwise peaceful scene.

Orion could feel the words weighing on her tongue, almost spilling forth, yet each time, she hesitated, turning into contemplative silence. Respecting her delicate state, Orion chose not to pressure her, giving her space to find her courage at her own pace.

Between his studies and social interactions, Orion remained deeply engaged in his rigorous combat training.

His duels with Valerian within the Limitless Arena Mode were increasingly intense and rewarding. The simulation of Valerian’s near-unstoppable regeneration and cunning use of Blood and Darkness abilities continually pushed Orion’s swordsmanship, spellcraft, and overall combat intuition to their absolute limits.

Each defeat only ignited a deeper determination within Orion, fueling an insatiable desire for growth.

In addition to perfecting his existing abilities, Orion also began crafting new and innovative spells during these days.

Rather than focusing solely on precision, single-target techniques, Orion experimented with large-scale, destructive spells designed for mass-area clearance.

Inspired by artillery-style warfare he’d read about, he successfully developed long-range ballistic-type spells capable of obliterating wide expanses with the precision of a cannon.

Soon enough, the anticipated day arrived once more. He calmly swept his gaze across his gathered companions, lips curving slightly with faint amusement as the room brimmed with peacefulness.

Each individual carried their unique presence, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of simpler days when close friends casually gathered to share their stories and banter.

Arya, Emilia, and Nyss sat leisurely on Orion’s large, comfortable bed, occasionally whispering with each other playfully.

Elias and Felira occupied the chairs by the window, the sunlight filtering gently through, illuminating their faces.

Sylvia elegantly sat in a chair positioned beside the bed, while Kale quietly leaned against the wall, his expression thoughtful yet faintly amused.

Orion, seated comfortably on his meditation mat, finally broke the comfortable silence, his voice tinged with mild humor and a hint of exasperation. "Is this a meeting spot?"

Elias chuckled loudly, completely unabashed as he replied teasingly, "Arya was the one who insisted we come here. She said you stay alone most of the time, so we’re here to rescue you from your miserable solitude."

Orion slowly turned his gaze towards Arya, his expression subtly accusing. Arya immediately turned her head away, feigning innocence as Orion opened his mouth, "Little Arya, do I look like a lonely old man who needs consoling?"

She slowly turned her head back and replied sheepishly, sticking out her tongue and lightly hitting her own forehead, "Ehehe, Brother Orion, it seems I mistook you for someone else entirely! This was definitely not my intention."

The rest of the group, clearly entertained, suppressed their laughter, sharing amused glances.

Orion exhaled deeply, shaking his head, yet a small smile still graced his lips. Indeed, he realized quietly within himself, it had been far too long since he’d experienced such peaceful, carefree moments surrounded by friends.

It felt nice, familiar in the most comforting of ways, as he used to sit down and talk with his friends like this during his last life. When they used to visit him to play some games.

"Alright," inwardly shaking his head free of those games, Orion spoke again, settling more comfortably into his meditation posture. "Since everyone’s already here, let’s share how the past week went. Elias and Felira certainly seem to have made the most meaningful progress." He cast a knowing smirk towards Elias, clearly hinting at something deeper.

Immediately, Felira’s delicate features flushed a soft shade of crimson, embarrassment evident as she quickly lowered her head to avoid eye contact.

Elias, meanwhile, scratched the back of his head sheepishly, awkwardly avoiding Orion’s penetrating gaze.

"You don’t have to tease me in front of everyone like this, Orion," Elias chuckled, mildly embarrassed yet good-natured.

"Anyway, let’s move on quickly from us. You should definitely ask Sylvia about her progress." Elias swiftly redirected attention, his eyes glinting mischievously. "I heard she’s finally mastered Advanced Grade Sword Aura. Now she can manifest astral swords entirely from sword aura and manipulate them at will."

Orion’s eyebrows rose slightly, genuine surprise crossing his expression as he turned to Sylvia. "You genuinely managed to surprise me, Sylvia. I honestly didn’t expect you to grasp Advanced Sword Aura ahead of me."

Sylvia chuckled softly, her voice gentle yet confident. She lightly shook her head, her scarlet hair shimmering slightly beneath the morning sun, "Orion, it hasn’t even been a few weeks since you comprehended Intermediate Grade Fire and Thunder Sword Auras. On the other hand, I achieved Intermediate Sword Aura several months ago. It would’ve been genuinely absurd if you’d overtaken me that quickly."

Orion laughed quietly, nodding in genuine acknowledgment, "That makes sense."

He turned his gaze slowly, scanning the expressions of each person present in the room once more, the atmosphere growing subtly more serious. "Well then, since we’re all gathered here, it’s time to discuss our next plan."

The casual and carefree energy in the room gradually shifted, replaced by thoughtful consideration as everyone directed their attention fully towards Orion, waiting expectantly for him to continue.

"The underground ruins near our kingdom’s border that Magi discovered will serve as our next expedition," Orion explained calmly, his eyes thoughtful yet serious. "According to Uncle Edgar’s detailed reconnaissance, these ruins haven’t been explored deeply yet, and the news hasn’t spread widely. Meaning, we still have some precious time to prepare and make our move."

Kale, arms crossed and expression serious, chimed in thoughtfully, "What exactly are we expecting to find there? Ruins at borders are pretty much unpredictable. People have found them in the past and most were empty while some had treasures beyond the Ninth Grade."

Orion nodded slightly, acknowledging Kale’s inquiry. "You’re correct. From the scattered records Magi and Uncle Edgar found, these ruins once belonged to a mythical beast in an old Era. But too much time has passed and the aura left behind by that mythical beast has created some high-grade natural treasures that include but are not limited to herbs, minerals, and entire mana lakes. We can’t miss this opportunity."

Nyss tilted her head slightly, despite the temptation of so many treasures, she remained calm, "Then, doesn’t that mean we’re essentially walking blindly into potential danger? Is there any limit on the level of people allowed inside?"

Orion chuckled softly and shook his head, "We can’t be that lucky each time. I have discussed with Grandpa. He promised me that no one above the level of Eighth Grade Awakening Realm will enter, as the treasures are only effective to those below or at the Ninth Grade. My Grandpa, Uncle Reynold, the Duke Houses, and some Marquess Houses have discussed among themselves to send their younger generation there."

Sylvia, Nyss, Emilia, and Arya looked at him in confusion. Sylvia asked, "Why didn’t my parents tell me anything about this?"

Elias also asked his own question, "And how did they find out about this so soon? Didn’t you say the ruins were discovered very recently?"

Orion shrugged and said calmly, "Well, they might have been waiting to see if I’d tell you or not. As for how they found out? Is that even a question? You are underestimating their thousands of years of legacy too much. They are deeply rooted in the Thunderpeak Kingdom. It is hard for any news to escape their ears."