"System," he called out mentally. Almost immediately, he felt the familiar presence of his system responding.
After a brief pause, the system began, [Host, I have found the reason why their frag- ]
Seojun cut it off quickly, his voice firm. "We'll talk about that later. Right now, I need you to contact Zyraena. I have to find my mom."
The system responded obediently, [Yes, Host.]
While they continued to follow Alexa's lead, waiting for the system's response, Seojun's thoughts wandered back to his mom.
After what felt like several long minutes, the system finally returned, its voice clear and precise, [Listen to me, Host. She's near Turn left.]
Alex and Alexa exchanged a glance as they noticed Seojun make a sudden turn left, veering away from the main street and into an unexpected direction.
"Seojun!" Alex called out, confused by the abrupt change.
"Just follow me," Seojun replied with a firm tone, trusting the system's guidance as he moved quickly through the twists and turns of the alleyways.
They continued walking, following Seojun's lead, and soon found themselves emerging into a large, bustling area filled with people. The crowd thickened around them, and Seojun's focus sharpened as the system's voice resonated in his mind, [She's inside, Host.]
Seojun stopped in his tracks, lifting his gaze toward the massive building in front of them. It was circular in shape, towering over the nearby structures with its unique architectural design. The exterior was a blend of modern and classical elements — tall pillars supporting a domed roof, with intricate carvings etched into the stonework.
Large glass panels reflected the bright sunlight, making the building almost seem to glow.
Along the upper edge of the circular structure were banners displaying different colors, crests, and symbols, indicating the importance of whatever took place inside. The entrance had a set of grand archways that were guarded by a few heavily armored sentinels, who stood tall and alert.
Alexa's eyes widened as she took in the sight. "This… This is the Tournament Hall!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with surprise. seaʀᴄh thё nôᴠel Fire.nёt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.
Seojun's eyebrows furrowed. "Tournament Hall?" he echoed, not familiar with the place.
Alex nodded, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "Yeah, it's where they hold all the major combat tournaments, exhibitions, and some classified meetings for high-rankers."
"Wait," Alex suddenly called out, halting Seojun and Alexa in their tracks. He quickly open the hologram of Global system server.
"Today is the U.S. Top Ranker PvP Tournament," Alex announced, looking up at them.
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"Eh? Is it today?" Alexa asked and they noticed that Seojun had no idea so Alex explained.
"PVP Tournament is a huge event. All the awakeners in the U.S. who think they have what it takes to challenge the top rankers participate in this tournament. It's their chance to take the place of the current top rankers, and if they win, they get to move up in the rankings, gain fame, and secure massive rewards."
Seojun looked up at the towering building. "Maybe Mom is watching the tournament, Let's get in and check."
Alex shook his head. "We can't just walk in there, Seojun. This place is a fortress during events like these. I doubt they'd let us in without tickets, and I'm pretty sure they're all sold out by now."
Before Seojun could reply, Alexa stepped forward with a confident grin. "Wait, I've got an idea. Just follow me."
They trailed behind her as she approached the guards stationed at the entrance. Alexa reached into her pocket, pulled out a sleek, polished badge, and flashed it at them. The guards' eyes widened in recognition and surprise.
"Ms. Alexa! The Top 10 Korea Ranker!" one of the guards exclaimed, bowing slightly in deference.
The other guard quickly followed suit. "We didn't expect to see you here today, ma'am. How can we assist you?"
A few people in the surrounding crowd overheard and began murmuring among themselves. "Is that really her?" one whispered. "Wow, it's Alexa!"
"Waah So pretty! Can i get a picture?!"
"It's the Dual blade Vixen Omg! I'm your fan!"
More heads turned, and soon enough, a small crowd began to form around them, all buzzing with excitement at the sight of a celebrity awakener.
Alexa shot a glance back at Seojun and Alex, her expression sharp. "Act like bodyguards, will you?" she hissed under her breath.
Without missing a beat, Alex squared his shoulders and moved to Alexa's side, standing tall and serious, as if he were her personal security. Seojun, catching on, mirrored his posture, taking up a position on the other side. They flanked her, trying to look as imposing as possible to keep the curious onlookers at bay.
Seeing the reaction from the crowd, the guards quickly stepped aside, gesturing toward the entrance. "Please, go right in, Ms. Alexa. We'll make sure no one disturbs you."
"Thank you," Alexa replied, maintaining a cool and collected demeanor. She turned back to Seojun and Alex, motioning for them to follow her. "Let's go, quickly."
They hurried inside, the doors closing behind them just as the crowd began to swell with more onlookers.
Inside the arena, the atmosphere was electric, filled with the roar of cheering fans, the hum of powerful magic, and the clash of weapons echoing through the massive space. Seojun looked around, taking in the sight of the vast stadium packed with spectators.
Alexa glanced back at them, a satisfied grin on her face. "See? No need for tickets when you've got connections," she said with a wink.
Seojun nodded, impressed. "Nice move," he admitted. "Now let's find Mom."
Alexa quickly pulled out a cap and a mask from her bag and put them on, tucking her hair beneath the cap. "Alright," she said, her voice slightly muffled by the mask. "We need to split up. It'll be faster that way."
Alex nodded, glancing at Seojun. "You're the one who's most likely to recognize her first, so keep your eyes sharp."
Seojun's heart was racing. He could feel it pounding in his chest with a mix of excitement and anxiety.
"Got it," he replied, trying to steady his breathing. "Let's meet back here in 20 minutes if we don't find her."
They all nodded in agreement, then turned and began moving in different directions.