Chapter 115: Assumptions Lead to Overwhelming Expectations (II)

----

As far as Kayn's outlandish reaction went, Apollo was unable to understand why it was so. Was it really so amazing that he possessed something akin to a Contracted Beast? To him, it wasn't some awe-inspiring action. Hence, he looked at Kayn wordlessly. Not to mention, he was more concerned with his prior state.

'If it wasn't due to Ouroboros and Aunty's doings, I would have most likely flew into an obscene rage. I don't understand, Azridan warned me to keep my emotions in check, but he didn't mention that even slight stimulus retains the ability to affect me like this,' Apollo thought, ruminating over the previous dilemma.

"Ahem, pardon my reaction. Based on your expression, I can tell you don't understand why I am like so. Allow me to explain, remember I mentioned the Spirit Cultivators possessing the ability to control beast—that is their names, Contracted Beast," Kayn stated.

As a result, Apollo's eyebrows rose, "Ah I'm aware of their name. So, with that, you believed I perhaps possessed the ability of a Spirit Cultivator? But, to be that, I would need this Spirit Summon you just talked about, no?"

"No, not necessarily. You don't need a Spirit Summon to be a Spirit Cultivator. The makings of a Spirit Cultivator lay in the ability to use their soul to interact with others. To do so requires an existing talent. Do you understand what this means?!" Kayn exclaimed, fervent excitement apparent in his eyes.

"That I have the talent for Spirit Cultivation?" Apollo replied with a chagrined smile. Kayn's abundant elation left Apollo feeling a pang of discomfort. He could tell Kayn found his surefire way to a preferable future, ergo, the ardent gleam in Kayn's eyes.

"That's only partly true! That means, without a doubt, you'll be admitted. All that remains is for you to present your Contracted Beast to the Administrators. Naturally, this also means you have virtually secured a route to your rise. It was quick, but it seems my decision to sacrifice those children has already begun to pay off.

Before I likened your responses to nothing but pride, but it seems you contain the ability to enact your word within that body of yours. My god, it seems the divine fates have shone their light upon you," Kayn marveled, even going as far as to clap animatedly.

Meanwhile, Apollo's frown deepened. He felt a tingle in his fingers when Kayn mentioned "divine fate" and "god". 'Please don't tell me, just hearing those words result in a punishment being afflicted upon me...'

Fortunately, the expectant punishment didn't happen and the tingling subsided. However, in response to Kayn's words, Apollo shrugged, "I'd rather not. I would like to take a look and see what this trial entails. Not to mention, there's no proof it'll happen as you say.

"As we discussed, the Academies are all a facade. In their eyes, my origin may overshadow my ability. There may even remain a chance I'll face blatant oppression. As such, I'd like to first test the waters. Entering blindly would be a foolish mistake," Apollo denounced adamantly.

"Ah, what you say is true. Now that you mention it, you may even be questioned! What will be your alibi?" Kayn inquired, rubbing his chin, eyes glued to Ouroboros reposed on Apollo's shoulder.

"I'll go with the flow. If my assumptions are correct, I won't be the one forming my alibi," Apollo mysteriously answered the question. In response, Kayn gave a small nod, symbolizing his acceptance.

Meanwhile, Cynthia also spoke up, "That beast is beautiful. What type of species is it?"

"An Umbra Serpent," Apollo answered, gaining Cynthia's stupefaction. She didn't quite understand what that species was nor had she heard of it. The more she thought about it, the more her skepticism and bewilderment grew.

"Don't worry, I had the same expression. I don't know it's origins, I just happened to chance upon it somehow," Apollo chuckled at his aunt's adorable appearance. It appeared as if the extensive thinking hurt.

"Nonetheless, I must tell you; I am amazed by your actions. With this, I'll be able to assuredly rest the safety of the others in your hands. While I'm unsure of this year's trials, you should possess the ability to do this much," Kayn said, looking at Apollo with a meaningful gaze.

"Oh? I understand that look. What will you give me in return? If you're unable to determine what to give me...I'd like all the Spirit Shards in the family's possession. That should suffice no matter how small the collection is," Apollo chuckled, not rejecting the request like he would have usually done.

As he said, the dynamic of their relationship was him being both a hired shield and weapon. Thus, for his movement, payment would be needed; which in this case, was the Spirit Shards. As mentioned earlier, Spirit Shards were the smallest hard currency among cultivators. Within their ranks, actual money was worthless to a certain extent.

Naturally, it wouldn't be completely useless. After all, if one claimed land, it would prove useful in the event you hired mortals to do your agricultural and meager construction endeavors. As such, only when one reached the level of owning their own land would they vest attention toward things like coins.

"I can oblige to that," Kayn assented. To him, this was well worth the exchange. Especially so, due to the chance of obtaining those same shards in abundance later on.

With a small smirk appearing on Apollo's lips, the doors behind them opened. Shortly after, one by one, the other 9 youths appeared from their independent spaces. In front, Aaron and Lily led, followed by Xineen.

At a glance, Apollo could tell they had made suitable advancements. However, the solemn aura of advancement dissipated when Lily and Xineen took notice of the small Ouroboros located on Apollo's shoulder. Once again, he frowned; he knew those expressions they were showing would turn into an annoyance once again.

"Oh my goodness, what is that cute little thing?" Xineen exclaimed, her eyes gleaming with elated curiosity. In her eyes, Ouroboros' silver scales was the prettiest thing she had ever laid eyes on.

Similarly, Lily's eyes shimmered as well. Unlike her typical quietness, she spoke up. It appeared the maturity of age was getting to her, "That...that's a beast! But how can a serpent be so pretty? Can I touch it, Apollo?"

"Err…" Apollo blinked wordlessly, unable to respond. In truth, he wasn't sure how Ouroboros would react with others. Additionally, he wasn't aware of the extent of Ouroboros' strength. What if it returned to its normal state and lashed out at them. That could be a potentially fatal encounter.

Fortunately, his worries were debunked. Ouroboros' words resounded in Apollo's mind, "Oh, I like these faces. Let them touch me. Ouroboros like girls, Master."

Thus, Apollo released a mental sigh, ultimately nodding. As such, Xineen and Lily rushed up to Ouroboros, blessing him with gentle rubs. In response, he hissed happily, enjoying their touch.

"Ahem, aren't you enjoying this a little too much?" Apollo chided, sparing the girls the same words as well. Unfortunately, neither side responded to him, leaving him baffled. Paying it no mind, Apollo devoted his attention elsewhere.

Under close inspection, he noticed the blaring changes in Aaron's demeanor. First, even when at rest, his hand rested upon the hilt of his sword, a sharp gleam circulating throughout his eyes. Silently, Apollo nodded in praise.

'If I remember correctly, Azridan mentioned this is something along the lines of intent. Additionally, it is a telltale sign, that one possesses at least a semblance of talent in spiritual cultivation. With this, it seems there's another one among us who will do relatively well.'

Alternatively, Apollo glanced at Kayn who was also filled with satisfaction. 'It seems my plans have presented suitable results. Although only Aaron, Apollo, Lily show strong signs of intent, at least Xineen presents faint signs of it as well. It seems the environment of the ship was extremely beneficial to everyone.'

"Aaron, your body feels irregular. What's the state of your meridians?" Apollo inquired, even without the system, he sensed something off with Aaron's body. If it was put in words, it felt as if he was undergoing a metamorphosis.

"I'm not sure, but I do know I caused a malfunction in my formation circle halfway through cultivation. Alas, causing me to dismiss cultivating and practice the sword instead," Apollo disclosed, garnering the shock, especially so for Cynthia.

'Oh no...why did that have to happen now,' Cynthia frowned looking at her son, slightly distraught.

At the same time, another announcement sounded throughout the ship. "We are now passing through the barrier, brace yourself!" A moment later, a large shockwave passed through the hull and beyond of the large ships, deactivating all formations and jolting awake many in a cultivation haze.

In light of this, numerous youths groaned, spitting up close. They were this close to advancing at yet their attempts were thwarted by the appearance of this barrier; this was just their luck.

On the other hand, Apollo's eyes glistened at he looked at the incoming wave. For some odd reason, he could see rune evident within. This mystified him.

At that time, the ship's momentum came to a halt.