Chapter 462 462

Chapter 462 Chapter 462

?However, her decision faced immediate resistance from Monica and Nora, who vehemently opposed the idea of Madeline putting herself in harm's way. Nexus, equally concerned for her safety, joined in the plea for her to reconsider. The family dynamic unfolded in a brief but intense exchange of opinions.

"No, you can't go out there alone! It's too dangerous," Monica exclaimed, her worry etched across her face.

Nora, echoing Monica's sentiment, added, "We can't risk losing you, Mom. We don't even know how strong the person is. Please, reconsider."

Nexus, with a firm yet compassionate tone, chimed in, "It's too risky. We can't let you face whatever threat is out there on your own when we don't even know what it is."

Madeline, however, remained resolute. She reassured them with a calm demeanor, "I appreciate your concern, but I'm confident in my ability to handle the situation. I won't engage in any unnecessary fights, and I'll be careful. Trust me on this."

Monica couldn't contain her concern and frustration. "But what if something happens? We can't just sit here and wait!"

Nora, equally worried, added, "There has to be another way. We can't risk losing you."

"You shouldn't worry; I will be as careful as possible."

Nexus, understanding their apprehension and the reason why Madeline decided to go out alone, which is to make sure everyone is safe, attempted to soothe their fears. "I trust your judgment, Madeline. Monica, Rosa, let's trust her judgment. She's capable, and we have to respect her decision. Let her handle this her way."

Madeline, sensing their distress, gently touched Monica's shoulder and looked into Nora's eyes. "I promise I'll be careful. I won't take unnecessary risks. You both stay here and look after everyone. I'll be back soon."

As the clock continued its relentless march, the tension in the hall reached a crescendo. An hour slipped away like grains of sand through an hourglass, leaving the family members in a state of heightened anxiety. The once dimly lit hall now felt oppressive, the shadows cast by the flickering candles dancing eerily on the walls.

Unable to bear the prolonged uncertainty any longer, the family members decided to brave the unknown. "We shouldn't delay any longer," one of the volunteers said. They steeled themselves for the possibility of confronting danger head-on, a collective resolve etched on their faces. Just as they were about to embark on their search, a hush fell over the room as Madeline returned.

Monica and Nora, their eyes reflecting a mix of relief and worry, rushed to their mother. "Where were you? Why are you so late?" they questioned almost in unison. Madeline, her usually confident demeanor momentarily giving way to vulnerability, managed a small, reassuring smile. She attempted to speak, to offer an explanation, but emotions choked her words.

Monica's worry etched lines on her forehead as she implored, "Why didn't you return sooner? What happened out there?"

Nora, her eyes wide with concern, joined in, "We were about to go out and look for you. The longer you were gone, the more we feared the worst."

Madeline, meeting the gaze of her daughters, felt a pang of guilt for causing them distress. "I'm sorry, everyone. I wish I could explain it better. The explosion—it was powerful. I couldn't see the saboteur, and I didn't want to risk missing anything so I had to search further."

Amidst the collective concern, Madeline took a moment to compose herself. She expressed her own confusion, recounting the events surrounding the explosion.

After a moment of silence, Madeline added, "It was a strange situation. I saw the aftermath but couldn't identify anyone suspicious nearby. Whoever did this must have left already."

Nexus, observing the unfolding scene with a calm demeanor, spoke up, "Madeline, can you recall anything else? Any details that might help us understand what happened?"

Madeline, reflecting on the events, responded, "It was chaotic. The aftermath of the explosion was huge. I felt a strong magical presence, but it was vague as if it could vanish almost instantly."

Monica, her concern turning into frustration, questioned, "But why would someone do this? What's their motive?"

Nexus, maintaining his composed demeanor, addressed the room, "Let's not jump to conclusions. We need more information. Crystal, did you see anyone leaving the area when you went to search the area?"

Crystal shook her head, "No, Nexus. It was as if they vanished into thin air."nove(l)bi(n.)com