Legend | Celeste Academy Series BK #2

Chapter 10 ♕ The Handshake

This wasn't the normal talk over tea that the Headmaster had preferred, yet, no matter how many conclusions they came upon, questions seemed to only keep on popping up like mushrooms. It made the man want to take out a piece of paper and write down every mystery he wanted resolved. Valeriana's identity and background seemed to grow darker and dimmer as they proceeded with the discussion.

"Yet, why did you coax Valeriana into leaving so soon? Knowing the situation? You did not even give her the choice to stay behind to investigate on the matter at hand." Seraphina's brows creased at the rush of sympathy. "She must be having a hard time now . . ."

"I did so because it would help keep her mind off it for a while." Lord Aeron said. "And I believe this mission would do a lot in helping her improve and find out more about herself." He then gazed at his reflection on the surface of the tea and frowned. "I also looked into the matter regarding the recent attack with demons."

"And? What has become of it?" Headmaster inquired.

"There are no holes on the barrier, nor are there any signs of forced entry. Though the barrier is gradually becoming weak, it still has enough strength to fend off demons for two months or so . . ." He exchanged glances with the two. "There is no other way strong enough that can assure entry in exception for one thing."

Seraphina and Kylon froze, their eyes bulging as the word rolled off their tongue simultaneously. "A summoning."

Aeron nodded. "Which in turn makes Valeriana's suspicions regarding a planned attack plausible."

"So you believe that someone is after Valeriana's life? For what reason?"

"I wish I knew. Really. I wish I knew."

"Then, how do we help?" Kylon inquired.

"I will not bother Seraphina as you currently have something heavy going on, don't you?" The lord eyed the lady knight knowingly which made her recline in her seat and nod her head slowly. Just knowing she wouldn't be taking much part in this made her guilty. "Do not feel bad. Kylon and I will do our best for Valeriana."

"Please do just that."

"Then, what task will you ask of me?" The headmaster questioned.

"It's really simple . . . but that depends . . . I want a list of suspects who you think may be responsible for this event. If we can start there, we'll eventually get somewhere. I am not sure how things will turn out, but hopefully we'll find something out of this."

"I see. Corvan spoke to me before and he already had his suspicions."

"Who is that?"

"The only person who had the audacity to approach Valeriana under the false pretense of a caring friend during the times she had no one to rely on but herself." His pink eyes glowed and his mouth curved in distaste. "Or, it might be the sworn archenemy that did nothing but threaten her life since the very moment she stepped on the grounds of the academy."

"So it's . . . if you were asked, Headmaster," Lord Aeron started. "Who do you suspect the most?"

"Between A and B? I suspect A."

"So if it's that way, I'll set the trap ready."

#

Much to Valeriana's disappointment, Avaro needed to leave. Charles told her that it would be troublesome to have the villagers panic unnecessarily at the sight of the Celestial Beast. But all ended well after Valeriana took the time saying her tearful goodbyes to the magnificent creature. Avaro laughed at her slight childishness, knowing for sure that this wouldn't be their last meeting.