CHAPTER 34: SIAMELUMIS’ PLAN

First, as Draco mentioned, staying within the Clan would be the worst option for Emilia right now. She had to leave as soon as possible, with as few people knowing as possible.

And fortunately, there was a convenient opportunity for that.

The Rite of the Dragon Vein. A sacred trial where young Silverveins were sent into the outside world to complete a series of challenges.

Emilia would be sent out in secret to take part in that mission as well. However, instead of waiting for the same departure date as the others her age, and instead of using the Clan’s official Gates, she would leave early—personally sent away by Lord Siamelumis herself.

To ensure her safety, the Guardian Deity would also cast a powerful disguise spell. To the world, Emilia would appear as nothing more than an ordinary adventurer. Nobody, not even her parents, would be able to track her. The only one who would know her true appearance was Lord Siamelumis. Under such concealment, she would be safe.

This plan, at the very least, would buy the Clan enough time to investigate and uncover who had sabotaged the summoning ritual. Hopefully, the truth would be revealed before Emilia’s return.

However, there was still one major problem...

"Emilia," Siamelumis said gravely, "you will have to survive out there on your own, with only your first summon being a single Noctifelis. You are also forbidden from using any magic that could expose your identity as a Silvervein, unless absolutely necessary. And remember... your father will not be able to send you aid or resources. Life will be incredibly harsh, for both you and Mimi, for the next three years. So tell me... do you believe you can endure it?"

Her eyes softened for a moment as she added, "If you find it too difficult, we can always come up with another plan."

However—

"Yes! I can do it!" Emilia answered at once, without a single trace of hesitation.

And not only was there no fear or anxiety in Emilia’s eyes—she actually looked excited!

"Good," Siamelumis said with a faint smile.

"Emilia..." Ariana whispered, holding her daughter’s hand tightly, squeezing it as if she didn’t want to let go.

Emilia turned to her and smiled. "Don’t worry, Mom. Don’t worry, Dad. I’m strong. I’m a Silvervein! No matter how harsh it gets, I’ll still overcome it all."

"Haha, that’s my girl," Draco said proudly. "I believe in you, Emilia."

"Meow!"

Mimi chimed in as well, moved by her master’s determination.

"Alright then, that settles it," Siamelumis declared.

"Yes. Thank you for everything, Lord Siamelumis," Draco said as he, Ariana, and Emilia bowed once more, offering their gratitude to the great, gentle dragon.

And so, the meeting came to an end. Everyone was about to return—

But suddenly—

"Wait a moment. Before you all go, there is something I wish to say to this little one," Siamelumis interrupted. Her massive gaze shifted toward Mimi. "Mimi, would you mind staying alone with me for a moment?"

Eh?

What?

EHHHH?!

Mimi froze, her eyes widening in shock.

The Guardian Deity wants to talk to me?

Oh no... what could this be about?!

"Mimi?" Emilia stroked her head gently. "Don’t worry. Lord Siamelumis is kind. She won’t hurt you."

Mimi jumped down from Emilia’s arms, puffing up her little chest.

Nah, I’m not worried! You guys go on ahead!

"Meooow!" She even raised a paw in a clumsy little bye-bye gesture.

"Alright, see you then. I’ll be waiting on the other side," Emilia said warmly.

And with that, in a flash of light, Siamelumis sent the other three back to the Forbidden Peak.

__________________________

Now, alone with Siamelumis, Mimi’s heart began to thump harder and harder in her tiny chest.

She was nervous.

But at the same time... excited! Curious!

Why had the great dragon asked to see her alone?

Why not Emilia? Why not Draco or Ariana? Why just her?

Could it be... could it be because she was special?!

Maybe—maybe she was about to receive an incredible, world-shaking gift!

Her ears perked high, her tail twitched back and forth like a pendulum, unable to hide her growing anticipation.

What could it be?

Ooooooh!

Mimi’s little mind spun wildly, bouncing from one possibility to another.

Could it be... yes, just like so many other isekai protagonists I’ve read about back in my old world... I’m finally about to receive something amazing?

A cheat skill?

A legendary weapon?

A unique evolution?

Ohohohoho! This is it! This is my time!

But then, as she gazed upon the majestic dragon deity, waiting for her cheat skill, tail swishy impatently....

A single name from Siamelumis like thunder shattered her world.

"Miss Claire Anderson..."

...

Needless to say, Mimi was shocked. Claire Anderson... that was her past life name!

Wait. What. WHAT?!

"Welcome to Arventia," Siamelumis continued smoothly, and there was even a small smile on her dragon face. "Tell me—how do you like your new life so far?"