Chapter 129: Christine Alger De Lumenia 2

"Tell me more"

The emperor demanded, his piercing gaze fixed on Christine, who found herself staring before the powerful ruler in his opulent make shift court. Christine couldn't help but giggle a little whenever her father changes demeanor like this.

The grandeur of the surroundings seemingly only intensified the gravity of the situation. Christine took a moment to compose herself, acutely aware of the importance of her words.

Christine was no stranger to the capricious nature of her father, the emperor.

While he often portrayed himself as a benevolent and kind ruler to those, he deemed worthy, she knew all too well the swift and ruthless actions he could take when provoked.

In the intricate dance of court politics, Christine had learned to navigate the fine line between pleasing her father and ensuring the safety of those she held dear.

Although she doesn't exactly have any sort of affection for Liam as he was still quite useful, she would like to keep him alive first.

As she considered her response, Christine's mind raced through the possible implications of her words.

"First of all, calm down, father" said Christine, her voice measured but tinged with a hint of concern.

As she spoke, she couldn't help but notice the intense look her father gave her. It was a look she had grown accustomed to, one that signaled a storm brewing beneath the surface.

"I am calm...." replied the emperor, his words contradicting the tension that emanated from his demeanor. Christine sighed inwardly, recognizing that her father's definition of calm often diverged from the conventional understanding of the term.

This was the look he reserved for moments of decisive action, particularly when it came to matters concerning her and her elder brother.

'I really can't get used to that intense gaze of his whenever he gets serious, is that the sort of gaze needed to become the ruler of the largest empire in this vast continent?'

The emperor's stern gaze, though a manifestation of his protective instincts, occasionally overwhelmed her.

She understood that, in his own way, he demonstrated affection through this intense scrutiny, but it still had the power to unsettle her.

"I can't exactly see that... but anyway, like I told you, that guy is trash" Christine continued, her tone unwavering.

She knew the gravity of her words and the importance of presenting a strong case to her father. "Although I only visited him a few times, the way he acted and presented himself was all fake."

As she spoke, Christine delved into her observations, painting a picture of deceit and pretense. Her father, despite his stoic exterior, listened intently, absorbing every detail.

Christine had taken it upon herself to conduct a private investigation into the individual in question, uncovering a facade that would have deceived the unsuspecting.

"If I didn't do some private investigation on his daily activities here at school, I would've been fooled by his kind gestures and demeanor" Christine confessed.

"Seriously, his beautiful face is such a waste. Is he really Uncle Frederick's son? Except for the blonde hair and red eyes, everything about him is different."

Christine's words hung in the air, the weight of her observations sinking in. The emperor's expression remained unchanged, but the gears of his mind were undoubtedly turning.

"From what I've heard from the duke, Liam Tellus, his son is a strong and diligent kid. He even complimented on how talented he was with the sword" said the emperor, his tone betraying a note of approval. The mention of Liam's prowess in swordsmanship seemed to catch his attention.

Christine listened to her father's words, carefully choosing her response.

"His talent for the sword is not exactly a lie, father, if you don't take into account his laziness"

She chose her words diplomatically, attempting to convey a balanced perspective on Liam's abilities. Christine understood the delicate nature of discussing her engagement, and she had to navigate the conversation with caution.

Christine contemplated whether to divulge more concerning aspects of Liam's behavior. Thoughts of his questionable habits and indiscretions crossed her mind, but she ultimately decided against exposing those details.

....

Making my way towards the principal's office was nothing short of exhausting.

The weight of countless stares bore down on me, and my anxiety levels skyrocketed with each step.

It was still early in the morning, and I couldn't fathom why the entire academy seemed to be buzzing with activity.

Teachers, workers, and other members were already up and about, casting curious glances my way.

Their eyes followed me, and the low hum of gossip reached my ears.

"Hey, isn't that the Tellus kid the Heiron merchant group wanted to interrogate?"

"Why did he come here?"

"Did the principal call for him?"

The questions and speculations swirled around me, creating a stifling atmosphere.

I had been absent for over a week, and the air of suspicion surrounding me was palpable.

Couldn't they control their gazes and hushed conversations? The scrutiny only added to the burden I was carrying.

Ignoring the prying eyes and the whispered comments, I finally arrived in front of the door to the principal's office.

Finding Principal Victoria's private room wasn't a challenge; it practically screamed her personality. The door was a testament to her flamboyance, adorned with decorations and extravagance.

The shiny and colorful floor leading to her office bespoke a level of opulence that could only belong to her.

Oddly enough, there weren't any signs or labels indicating that this was the principal's office – a testament to her somewhat whimsical nature.

'I didn't notice most of this the last time I was here'

Opening the door, I was quite surprised to find the principal's office empty.

With a mix of curiosity and caution, I began exploring the room, touching and analyzing every nook and cranny.

After my thorough examination, I settled into the chair in front of Principal Victoria's desk.

The vibrant décor hinted at her eccentric personality, and the room seemed to hold secrets waiting to be unraveled.

"Did Loki and her take longer than expected?" I mused, wondering about the delay. Just as the thought crossed my mind, a golden portal suddenly opened behind me.

"Oh, Adrian, you're already here?" Loki's mischievous voice greeted me as he floated in the air, his small body exuding an air of playful energy.

"H-hello," responded Principal Victoria as she emerged from the golden portal after Loki. Her greeting held slightly less enthusiasm, and I couldn't blame her. Being dragged around by Loki without any warning was bound to leave an impression.

"Good morning, Loki. Good morning as well, Principal. As much as I would like to exchange more pleasantries and talk about your experience down the demonic realm, as I'm quite short on time, I'm just going to ask, did you get it?"

Loki smiled mischievously and looked at Principal Victoria. She opened her hands, revealing a red—no, a blood-red—stone that oozed demonic miasma.

The sight of it brought a smile to my face. The significance of the stone, its dark energy, and the potential it held were all too clear.

'The demon king really gave us more than we desired was the deal that great for him?'